In the bustling core of Cape Town, Central Methodist Church, located in the lively Greenmarket Square, has been a longstanding symbol of endurance and optimism. Pastor Alan Storey has overseen the institution, transforming the church from a simple place of worship into a hub of social activism, advocating for societal transformation and justice.
Storey’s final sermon as pastor delivered a powerful message: the Bible is essentially a historical record of humanity’s quest for freedom. He identifies a repetitive cycle in the scriptures: a group attains freedom, rises to power, gradually loses sight of the struggles that brought them to power, and eventually succumbs to the oppressive practices they initially opposed. Storey views this cycle as an ongoing reality in today’s society.
In Storey’s perspective, the true crux of the Christian faith is not blind faith but adherence to the values propagated by Jesus Christ: justice, equality, truth, kindness, and compassion. His interpretation of the Bible is non-literal, seeing literal interpretation as an indication of superstition rather than genuine faith.
A Reach Beyond the Church
The influence of Storey’s tenure has been felt far beyond the church congregation. His advocacy has impacted various marginalized communities, including sex workers, the LGBTQ+ community, individuals with disabilities, and those impacted by HIV. His efforts were applauded by activist Zackie Achmat.
Storey’s activism’s focal point was the inception of The Yellow Banner Campaign in 2011. This project, ignited by a shared solidarity with the Right2Know campaign, was a direct challenge to the Protection of Information Act. Over time, the campaign broadened its scope to address a plethora of issues such as antiretrovirals, xenophobia, gender-based violence, sex work, homophobia, COVID-19, the Marikana massacre, and social housing.
A Personal Journey Towards Activism
Storey’s dedication to activism is deeply intertwined with his personal experiences. As an opponent to apartheid, he was detained for refusing to serve in the army and was one of the last conscientious objectors to face trial. Though the trial was ultimately discontinued, Storey continued his advocacy work, serving as the chairperson of Gun Free South Africa and founding the Banna Ba Modimo Clinic for homeless individuals.
His ministerial work has consistently emphasized inclusivity, particularly for LGBTQ+ individuals. His service to various congregations started in 1991, and he has been a cornerstone of the Cape Town church since 2008.
In 2019, the church offered sanctuary to refugees evicted from the Waldorf Arcade. The refugees, who had set up camp outside the United Nations High Commission for Refugees office, were seeking an opportunity to flee xenophobia in South Africa. They found refuge in the church for several months.
The Fight for Social Justice Continues
Storey highlighted the significance of advocating for social housing, questioning the fairness of a society where most people are landless and homeless. He encouraged people to mobilize for change. Gilbert Lawrence, a family friend and church member, expressed his gratitude to Storey for embodying how a church should function within a society.
Storey’s devotion to social justice was also commended by Buhle Booi, a member of housing advocacy group Ndifuna Ukwazi. Booi expressed his heartfelt gratitude to Storey and recognized his valuable contribution to their challenging work.
As Storey transitions into a new phase of his life, he leaves a lasting legacy of bravery, empathy, and dedication to social justice. He anticipates the release of his book, “Bells, Banners and Blasphemy,” detailing the banner campaign. Even as he looks forward to a well-earned sabbatical, his influence will persist within and beyond the Central Methodist Church, resonating with the individuals he has profoundly influenced.
