The event was hosted by the Enock Mathebula Foundation to celebrate the lives and work of Rev James and Aslina Mdluli and Rev Benjamin and Idah Mlombo.
The master of ceremony, Gabriel Temudzani, affectionately known as Chief Vhafuwi Adzwindini from the television soap opera Muvhango, had the audience entertained throughout the celebration and service.
He created a joyous atmosphere together with the band led by former Joyous Celebration singer, Ndivhuwo Matumba, who had the audience dancing and praising.
The chairman of the foundation, Enock Mathebula, said the event was necessary. “From humble beginnings, we can today look back with pride and say we have made huge strides.
“We have achieved our goal.
“I am a prominent businessman because of the church and the love these two pastors showed me, they played a critical role in my life,” he mentioned.
He also appreciated his late mother and said he is grateful for her teachings, support and love.
The chairman reminded the audience to appreciate their parents while they are still alive and still have the opportunity to say thank you.
“One thing I love about my mom, she was not a Christian, but she encouraged me to go to church and little did I know that I would find my spiritual parents.
“Baba Mdluli and Baba Mlombo recognised the leader in me, I am tough and able to make informed decisions because of these legends,” he said proudly.
“As we all know that charity begins at home, we must lay our foundations properly and it is for that reason we are honouring the legends today.
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“The Bible says the beginning of wisdom is to fear the Lord,” the chairman concluded.
The event was addressed by Bishop Chanza, while Bishop Jeffrey Manzini gave the main sermon of the day.
Meanwhile, the families’ representatives, Dudu Mdluli and Ephraim Mlombo extended their gratitude to the foundation as well as commending the foundation’s great work.
The district superintendent of the Free Methodist Church, Pastor Ntshali graced the event and prayed for the local municipality.
BaPhalaborwa Municipality mayor, Meriam Malatji, offered a message of support.
“We acknowledge the good work that you continuously do with the support from your wife Mathebula, it is not a child’s play to donate, but Mathebula keeps doing it,” she mentioned.
The mayor further said that the municipality will try to assist the foundation and said that she will adopt one disadvantaged child from the church, preferable from a child-headed family, or take responsiblility for a child who wants to study at a tertiary institution.
The foundation team led by Mathebula, Maggie Mathebula, Gift Mathebula, Patrick Mathebula, Vonani Mathebula and Katie Venter, presented a token of appreciation to the two families.
The gifts comprised of R10 000 cash for each family, an appreciation certificate, a basket of goodies and a blanket. The event concluded by unveiling a plaque which is placed at the entrance of the church wall.
