Deputy President Paul Mashatile delivered a keynote address at a fundraising gala dinner held on September 16, 2023, to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Southern Africa. The event, which aimed to raise funds for investment back into the community, took place at Marlboro Community Hall in Alexandra Parish.
Celebrating the Centenary
Mashatile expressed his pleasure in joining the centenary celebration as both a community member and the Deputy President responsible for leading the country’s social cohesion and nation-building programme. He emphasized the importance of working together to build a socially cohesive nation and stated that this was achievable through collaboration.
The Church’s Role in the Community
The Deputy President praised the Evangelical Lutheran Church for its significant role in the development and growth of the Alexandra community, particularly its investment in Lutheran Berlin Missionary, a school that has produced prominent men and women who play critical roles in South Africa.
The Importance of Giving
Mashatile quoted Acts 20 verse 35, “It is more blessed to give than to receive,” highlighting the importance of giving generously to those in need. By donating to education and skill development, the church helps improve lives and living conditions.
Fighting Social Ills
Mashatile discussed the church’s role in fighting social ills, regardless of denomination or community served. Churches have contributed to social justice causes by supporting uplifting legislation for underprivileged groups and combating discriminatory practices. The church’s endorsement of the government’s efforts to address societal challenges has been invaluable, particularly in advancing equality and fairness and fostering social responsibility.
Promoting Social Cohesiveness
Social cohesiveness is vital in fostering a harmonious society, and the church plays a significant role in promoting inclusivity among people of different backgrounds. Mashatile posed a question to the church, asking if it had fulfilled its community responsibilities or merely joined the masses who only care about themselves.
Addressing Critical Issues
The Deputy President emphasized that now is the time for churches to address critical issues such as access to quality education, poverty, unemployment, drug and substance abuse, child abuse, crime, corruption, lack of housing, teenage pregnancy, and high HIV infection rates among young people. This requires proactive collaboration between governmental entities and all segments of society, including interfaith communities.
Government Commitment
The government is committed to addressing social issues through various programmes, such as the social security system, which helps to alleviate poverty and inequality. The Deputy President apologized for recent delays in grant payments and vowed to ensure timely payments in the future.
Combating Poverty
Mashatile praised the Evangelical Lutheran Church, Alexandra Parish, for partnering with the Jewish Women’s Organisation to run a soup kitchen and an after-school programme for students. He urged everyone to follow their example and assist in combating poverty by sharing their resources with the less fortunate.
The Deputy President concluded by congratulating the Evangelical Lutheran Church on its centenary, acknowledging its enduring existence and remarkable journey. He quoted Martin Luther King, saying, “If I cannot do great things, I can do small things in a great way,” encouraging the church to continue its vital work in building strong communities and fostering unity.
