A healthy spirit means no crime or sign of depression

The Bela-Bela community suffers from a high incident rate of domestic violence and substance abuse, but it is believed that these destructive statistics can change for the better if the community commits to a spiritual change.

The BEAT was recently introduced to Pastor Tsholofelo Lucas Modise and Makofane Johannes Tlaka, who head up the Spiritual Care Chaplaincy RSA in Bela-Bela.

These two inspiring men are actively involved in counselling, trauma support and spiritual guidance to improve the lives of residents, in order for social cohesion to continue.

“The daily activity of a person is influenced by their commitment to the Holy Spirit or their dedication to evil activities,” Modise said.

He continued: “Bela-Bela is at a stage where urgent intervention is necessary and it is our calling to help people to understand the identity God has given them and help them realise that they do not have to turn to
substance abuse vices for gratification and then committing a crime and eventually end up in prison.”

The organization currently boasts an estimated 836 qualified chaplains in Limpopo.

This includes the Capricorn, Sekhukhune and Lepelle Nkumpi districts and close to 80 are stationed in the Waterberg area, according to Modise and Tlaka.

Since the Department of Social Development has become inundated with cases related to domestic violence, rape, murder, or any traumatic experience.

It has become nearly impossible to deal with these victims by a department that is bogged down with an increasing workload.

Modise said the chaplains are on standby 24 hours a day to assist the police, the hospitals, schools, and the military services to help victims with coping skills and thus enabling them to rise above their circumstances.

“It is our calling and we know God will provide for us to assist those in need,” Modise said. “If you are spiritually-connected you will be able to cope with challenges and not go astray.”

The chaplaincy is looking for more people who believe they have received the calling to help others within their community. It is their goal to have a chaplain in each of the nine wards within the Bela-Bela municipal area.

The chaplaincy have recently joined forces with the Bela-Bela police service and will be working side by side with the officers in the community.

People who have suffered trauma or in need of guidance are encouraged to reach out to the chaplaincy by phoning Modise or Tlaka on 072 100 2127 or alternatively on 072 962 8749. Their services are free of charge and open to all immaterial of creed or colour

— The BEAT