Easter has long been synonymous with resurrection.
At the New Pentecostal Church between Heidelberg and Nigel, a new meaning could be added to the mix.
On Easter Sunday, the church hosted approximately 1 500 weddings.
The International Pentecost Holiness Church (IPHC) in Kanana City, near Kaydale, is known for its mass wedding ceremonies.
Some of the people getting married are not monogamous but are entering polygamous arrangements and marriages.
A spokesperson for the IPHC, Vusi Ndala, said that mass weddings are part of their tradition, and that polygamy is an accepted aspect of African culture, welcomed by the church.
During the ceremony, some men were marrying their third or even fourth wife.
“In 2023, 800 weddings were held, and this year that number has increased dramatically. Polygamy is not only embraced but held in high regard in the church,” said Ndala.
The ceremonies are held during Easter, September (their New Year celebrations), and Christmas.
The IPHC in the area began construction in 2022. The dome can seat approximately 60 000 people. It is understood that couples waited in white tents for their turn to say “I do”.
The women all wore white dresses, while the men wore matching white suits and red ties. The pastor who officiated was Michael Sandlana.
Couples must go through a four-week counselling process before the ceremonies to ensure they fully understand and consent to the commitment.
The church maintains a strict dress code. Men must wear suits, ties, and jackets, while women are required to be fully covered, including long sleeves and a headdress.
