The beat of the African drum led the call to worship through music and art at the Umhlali Methodist Church’s centenary celebration over the weekend.
The drum was part of the ‘Flowers through our church’ display from Friday to Sunday that led congregants through Psalm 100, glorifying God for His faithfulness.
More than 200 people gathered to celebrate the church’s 100th anniversary on Sunday.
Those present for the special service included former ministers and guests from other churches.
The congregation was moved by stories shared by former ministers such as Charles Panaino, who urged the congregation to practice their faith outside of the four walls of the church building.
“We are still not making a connection with the rest of the world. We need to be out there, be bold and listen to God. He will guide us,” said Panaino.
The Methodist presence in Umhlali hails back to the 1870s, with the church’s marriage register recording the first wedding at the ‘Umhlali Chapel’ in 1875 between Gemima Burne – who likely had connections to the Burnedale farm next to the church – and Thomas Fayle, whose family name is honoured by a street in Salt Rock.
The present church building was dedicated almost 50 years later, in 1924.
Also among the attendees was 86-year-old Bruce Hulett, one of the church’s oldest members who was baptised there as a baby. He expressed his privilege witnessing the church’s centenary celebrations.
“The church has been a big part of my life, and I am delighted to witness such a special day. I attended Sunday school here during the Second World War,” said Hulett.
The weekend was a vibrant and joyful reflection of the church’s long and rich history in the community.
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