PRESBYTERY OF TSHWANE · PRESBYTERY OF TSHWANE ... 3.1.Past Mod: Pastoral Committee ... NOM8: (May 2010) Co-existent approach of Associations – Sello Mamabolo

2011 Feb Reports

PRESBYTERY OF TSHWANENotice is hereby given that a meeting of the

Presbytery of Tshwane will be held at Garankuwa Presbyterian at 09h00 on Sat 12 Feb 2011.

Lunch will be at 13h00 and the meeting will continue after lunch if necessary.

Please prepare for and pray for our meeting.

Reminders1. Please fill in your Lilac Commissioner's Forms and get them to us no later

than the February meeting, otherwise you will not be allowed to claim travel and your commissioners will not be recognised and will not be allowed to vote.

2. Please consider your new commissioners to Presbytery carefully: They are the link between Presbytery and the congregation.

VisionA Presbytery that is integrated, united, caring and efficient,

using all its resources for the work of equipping and supporting congregations

so that they become strong, vibrant, loving, growing congregations that are outward looking and resource sharing.

Purpose Statement:Presbytery exists to Unite and Empower Congregations.

Directions on the inside cover

Map and Directions

20110212PresbyteryAgendaAndReports-GarankuwaPage 2of 47

1. Draft AgendaTea is at 11h00 and Lunch at 13h00.

Only Notices of Motion pre-approved by the Clerk will be consideredPlease bring 3 copies

Items crossed out = no report

1. Constitution (Communion and Rededication service)

2. Formalities and Protocol2.1.Present and Apologies2.2.Minutes of the 13th Nov 20102.3.Notices of Motion

3. Matters Arising3.1.Past Mod: Pastoral Committee3.2.Past Mod: Mamelodi East Visit3.3.NOM8 by Sello Mamabolo (Aug 2010)3.4.St Thomas name change (NOM2)

4. Office Bearers Report4.1.Moderator4.2.Clerk4.3.Treasurer4.4.Court of Presbytery

5. Congregational Care and Integration5.1.Convener5.2.Consultation St Francis5.3.Garankuwa5.4.Highveld5.5.Khayakhulu5.6.Mabopane5.7.Pretoria Central5.8.Ruighoek5.9.Thumedi

6. Ministry6.1.Convener6.2.Seconded Ministers Reports6.3.Sedibeng Pastoral Support6.4.Training6.5.FOV

7. Church Development and Planning7.1.Convener

7.2.Grace7.3.Lotus Gardens7.4.Premier Mine7.5.Rustenburg7.6.St Andrew’s Emalahleni7.7.St James7.8.St Paul’s

8. Doctrine and Remits8.1.Doctrine and Remits8.2.Finance Committee Remit

9. Associations 9.1.Convener's report

10.Other Ministries10.1.Children’s Ministry10.2.Rocky Valley10.3.Bible Society10.4.P.E.F

11.JSR11.1.Convener's report

12.Elections of committees12.1.Church Development and Planning12.2. Congregational Care & Integration12.3.Doctrine12.4.Fellowship of Vocation12.5.JSR12.6.Ministry12.7.Remits12.8.Rolls and Records12.9.Training committee12.10.Sedibeng Pastoral Support

13.Rolls and RecordsSoshanguveSt Andrews PretoriaThumedi Makgahlela

14.Closure


2. Formalities

2.1 Notices of Motion... NOM1: Committee Members Election – Theo GroeneveldWhen Presbytery deals with the election of committees I will move that Presbytery instructs conveners to report to the May meeting with regard to establishing committees and that if they fail to do so, Presbytery will step in and appoint committees.

3. Matters Arising

3.1 Past Moderator – Pastoral Committee

3.2 Past Moderator – Visit to Mamelodi

3.3 NOM 8 – May 2010 NOM8: (May 2010) Co-existent approach of Associations – Sello Mamabolo The Presbytery adopts a co-existent approach to the association structures: both

recognised and unrecognised.

The Presbytery suspends the functions of the Presbytery Associations convener until the matter of Associations has been debated and concluded at the 2010 General Assembly.

All existing Associations within the Presbytery to report directly to the Clerk of the Presbytery until the dialogue process at an Assembly level is exhausted.

3.4 NOM 2 – Nov 2010 NOM.2 (Nov 2010) Congregation Names (Theo Groeneveld)Before Presbytery discusses the name change for St Thomas Congregation or at a time convenient to the Presbytery I will move that:

Presbytery adopts the following recommendations for the naming of congregation to the Standing Orders of the Presbytery and transmits them to the CDP of General Assembly for consideration:

Congregations are encouraged to refer to 9.15 of the Manual of Faith and Order, and to make "of The Uniting Presbyterian Church in Southern Africa" part of their name and that this be displayed on their boards and advertising

Congregations should consider making their geographical location part of the name of the church where this is appropriate. e.g. “Garankuwa Presbyterian Church,


a congregation of the Uniting Presbyterian Church in Southern Africa"

Where congregations are in temporary venues and may move to a different area, they should consider names like “Grace Presbyterian Church,a congregation of the Uniting Presbyterian Church in Southern Africa"

In the light of the Reformation Principle “Soli Deo Gloria,” congregations are urged not to consider naming congregations after people or saints. While there is a history of naming congregations in this way (e.g. “St Andrews”, “St Columba,” “Jonas Lediga”, etc. ) it is recommended that congregations do not continue this practice.

4. Office Bearers Reports

4.1 Treasurer's Report I am attaching an Income Statement for the period 1 January to 31 December 2010, together with a balance sheet as at 31 December 2010. I have appended explanatory notes to both documents to clarify some of the items reflected. Also attached is the annual Assessment Schedule to end December 2010.

As this report reflects the Presbytery’s financial position at the end of the financial year, the following points are worth noting:

1. Assessment income exceeded the budget by approximately R19 600. This enabled the Presbytery to cover the higher than anticipated (and certainly substantially higher than usual) cost of Commissions and GA Moderator’s visit.

2. 42% of the expenditure relates to grants to congregations & the Presbytery’s contribution to the Project

3. 33% of the expenditure relates to the cost of meetings (travel & catering), administration (salary, telephone & consumables), communications and bank charges

4. 10% has been invested for the future growth of the Presbytery and

5. The remaining 18% is spread across the other expense items.

We budgeted to draw on cash reserves to cover a shortfall of R19374.63. Although the report shows a shortfall of R40729.46 we need to remember that this amount is not all cash. R19 950 represents the shortfall on the disposal of the motor vehicle which amount was not expensed in cash. The use of cash reserves in the amount of R20 779.46 is just slightly higher than what was anticipated in the budget.

It might be a little strange to be optimistic about a reported shortfall for any financial year, but this is what we anticipated when we committed ourselves to the budget with its emphasis on maintenance of the ministry in our Presbytery. Given some of the unexpected expenses we faced during this year, I am satisfied with these results and feel that God’s money has been well spent in Tshwane Presbytery this year.

The Presbytery is referred to the letter of appeal, received from the Treasurer of the Sedibeng Trust (See Appendix), for financial support towards the cost of repairs to the House of Studies in Menlo Park, Pretoria. The Presbytery is also reminded of the discussion and decisions taken at the Council Meeting in November (minuted at 3.5 on page 6 of the Minutes of that Meeting). In this light the following points are brought to the


Presbytery’s attention:

1. The Sedibeng Trust submits regular reports (both narrative and financial) to the GA Finance Committee; its financial records have been audited every year since its inception and these audited statements published in the GA and/or Executive Commission papers. Reports have also been sent to the donors of the funds used to establish the Trust. The circumstances surrounding the current financial state of the Trust are in the public domain within the UPCSA and have been discussed and clarified with the Ministry Committee, the Finance Committee and the General Assembly. There are no skeletons in this closet! And the fact remains that the House is in need of repair to ensure the safety and comfort of the current batch of residents.

2. It is true that the GA in 2010 entrusted additional funds to the Sedibeng Trust. These funds, however, may not be used for the benefit of the House of Studies but are, in terms of the GA’s instructions, to be used to facilitate accommodation for ministry students at other training institutions.

3. It is true that the funds under discussion in this matter were allocated by the Presbytery for “mission outreach” and should, ideally, be allocated to an alternative “mission outreach” project. Unfortunately, no such alternative project has either come to mind or been brought to our attention. In the absence of an alternative beneficiary, the Presbytery is reminded that the 10:10:80 principle provides for us to “give to God” – which we, as a Presbytery, understood to mean “God’s work beyond our Presbytery”. Although the House of Studies itself lies within the bounds of our Presbytery, it is not a Presbytery project and its benefits will ultimately flow throughout the UPCSA and beyond. In this light it would seem that the Sedibeng Trust would quality as a worthy beneficiary.

4. Given that the proposal to donate these funds to the Sedibeng Trust was not defeated but referred back to the Finance Committee, the funds were accrued in the books at the end of the financial year and carried forward in the Balance Sheet. Releasing these funds in the current financial year will not negatively impact on this year’s expenditure.

5. The Presbytery is therefore being asked to reconsider the proposal to donate an amount of R10 551.98, being 5% of assessment income for 2010, to the Sedibeng Trust as a contribution towards the cost of maintenance.

PROPOSALS

1. Receives the report.

2. Donates an amount of R10 551.98 to the Sedibeng Trust as a contribution towards maintenance at the House of Studies.

4.2 Court of Presbytery Glynis Goyns

Election Officer’s Report to Presbytery

IntroductionPresbytery agreed at its November 2010 Council Meeting to elect members to its Court at its February 2011 Council Meeting and I was asked to act as Election Officer. Nominations were called for at the November Meeting and the necessary support documentation was listed, ie


–a letter of acceptance by the person being nominated

–a brief CV for that person

–a brief motivation by the proposer.

These documents are appended to this report for you to prayerfully consider your vote in advance of the election process on 12 February 2011. Each of the Ministers and Elders nominated to date have accepted their nomination and signed letters to this effect will be available at the February Meeting.

Structure

The Court of Presbytery, which is elected every two years, is made up of:

1. the Clerk of Presbytery (namely Rev ME Mtyhobile for 2011 & 2012) or his deputy

2. three Ministers who fall under the care and discipline of the Presbytery

3. three Elders who serve as Commissioners to Presbytery OR who actively serve on Sessions of Congregations that fall within the bounds of Tshwane Presbytery

4. two Ministers as alternates (who fall under the care and discipline of Tshwane Presbytery)

5. two Elders as alternates (who actively serve as Commissioners to Presbytery OR on Sessions that fall within the bounds of Tshwane Presbytery).

Nominations

The following nominations were received:

MINISTERS: Rev D van der Spuy ELDERS: Mr Thanduxolo Lubanga

Rev MJ Mohapi Mr Simon Shaba

Rev SK Mpafi Mrs Susan Hay

ALT MINISTERS: Rev AJ Combrink ALT ELDERS: Mr Percy Radebe

Rev W Buqa Mr Riaan Fourie

Brief CVs and motivations for each of the above are appended to this report. Please take the time to carefully and prayerfully consider each candidate so that a wise and informed choice can be made at the February meeting.

Election Process

The process will be clearly explained at the meeting on 12/02/11 and those who will be helping to distribute, collect and count ballot slips and votes will be introduced to Presbytery before elections take place.

Ballot papers with the names of those whose CVs and motivations are appended to this report will be printed and handed out to Presbytery members at the start of the election process.

Each nomination will then be checked for the constitutionally required support of two members of Presbytery over and above the proposer, ie three in total. If any nominations do not have the necessary support, members of Presbytery will be asked to delete these names from their ballot slips.

An opportunity will be given for further nominations from the floor, but these must be accepted in writing by the person being nominated and must be signed by at least 10 members of Presbytery (ie the proposer plus nine), failing which the nomination will fall away.


Once any nominations from the floor have been confirmed as legitimate, members of Presbytery will be asked to add these names to their ballot papers and 1 min will be given to each proposer to motivate their nomination.

Three Ministers, three Elders, two alternative Ministers and two alternative Elders are needed to constitute the Court of Presbytery, ie ten members in total.

Only official members of Presbytery, ie the Ministers and those Elder Commissioners chosen by their Sessions to represent their Congregations or their official alternates, may participate in the election process.

Each member of Presbytery must

16.vote for only the number of candidates as set out in point 6 above

17.vote only once for each candidate on the ballot slip, ie no candidate’s name may be ticked twice

18.print their name clearly in capital letters at the bottom of the ballot slip and sign it.

Any mistakes with the above will result in a spoilt paper and will be withdrawn from the election process.

Once every member of Presbytery has been given the opportunity to record their vote, the completed ballot slips will be collected and the votes counted:

21.Those with more than 50% of the votes are elected.

22.If there are still vacant positions, those with 20% or less of the votes and those already elected are deleted from a second ballot slip that will have been distributed to Presbytery.

23.A second ballot is then taken with the remaining names and those with more than 50% of the vote are elected.

24.A third ballot may be necessary if there are still vacant positions.

When the full quota of Court Members has been elected, Presbytery elects a Convenor.

ConclusionThis election process satisfies the constitutional requirements of The Manual of Faith and Order for the Uniting Presbyterian Church in Southern Africa. If you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to contact me on (082) 856-6254 in advance of the Presbytery Meeting on 12 February 2011 to ensure a smooth, transparent and efficient election process.

Thank you in advance for your co-operation in this process.

Biographies and Motivations are in the appendices

5. Congregational Care and Integration

5.1 Convener's Report Vuyo Mbaru

Work of the committee:

To co-ordinate the reports and progress of our vacant congregations.


To arrange, with the Moderator and Clerk, bi-annual meetings of Interim Moderators.

To arrange a consultation roster for our non-vacant congregations.

Track the periods of appointments for Interim Moderators.

To look for and assist with possible integration opportunities in the presbytery.

Unite Phola Congregation and Witbank Outstation of Thumedi Makgahlela

On the 28 November 2010 at Phola Presbyterian Church, the service of combining Witbank Outstation of Thumedi Congregation and Phola Congregation took place. The interim moderator (Rev. Z. Makhalima) led the service; the Moderator (Rev. P. Nyauza) preached the Word and did an amalgamated part; and Rev. V. Mbaru served Holy Communion.

Set Thumedi Makgahlela as Transitional

According to the Interim Moderator of the congregation it is not possible for Thumedi Makgahlela to have a minister. The reasons for that is the membership, which is about 20 elderly people; and the finances.

(Read Interim Moderator’s report)

Vacant Congregations :

Interim Moderators serve for one year (renewable once)

Congregation Interim Moderator Term Last report

Garankuwa Rev. William Manaka Feb 2011-Feb 2012 (last term)

August 2010

Phola Rev. Gerhard Langeveld(SS)

(Rev. Zolani Makhalima-May2011)

Feb 2011-Feb2012

Nov 2010

Premier Rev. Dennis vd Spuy Feb 2011-Feb 2012

Ruighoek Rev. Sisanda Mpafi Feb 2011-Feb 2012

August 2010

Rustenburg Riaan Fourie(CDE)

(Rev. Alan Cameron)

Feb 2011-Feb 2012 (last term)

Khayakhulu Rev. Nokalipha Nonjonjo

Feb 2011-Feb 2012 (last term)

None

St. Andrews Emalahleni

Rev. Gerhard Langeveld(SS)

Rev. Llewellyn Scott

Feb 2011-Feb 2012

(Last term)

August 2010

St James Rev. Micah Nthali (S/S) Stated Supply May 2010


St Pauls Mr. Emmanuel Jack (CDE)

Rev Micah Nthali

May 2011-May 2012

Thumedi Makgahlela

Mafasa Nyama May 2011-May 2012 (last term)

Nov 2010

Mabopane Mantsi Mohapi Aug 2010-Aug 2011

Nov 2010

Apology

I would like to apologise to the presbytery for not receiving the report about the tasks which it was suppose to receive them in this meeting. Such as:

6. Guidelines for the call/ appointment of ministers

7. Guidelines for visitations

Proposals

1.Presbytery receives the report

2.Presbytery thanks Rev. Z. Makhalima and the committee for merging Witbank Outstation and Phola Congregation.

3.Presbytery changes Thumedi Makgahlela Congregation to Transitional.

4.Presbytery encourages Interim-Moderators to provide reports.

5.Presbytery receives my apology

5.2 Consultation to St Francis Glynis Goyns

IntroductionSt Francis Presbyterian Church in Waterkloof was due for a consultation in 2009. Due to difficulties with Session’s preferences regarding the composition of the consultation team and changes in the ministry in Tshwane Presbytery, the consultation was postponed to 2010. Presbytery ultimately appointed Rev Glynis Goyns, Mr Bernhard Motshabi and Ms Pearl Crouch for the visition, which took place in October 2010 in four phases with full participation by all three members of the consultation team as follows:

Meeting with the Session and the Stewardship Board on Thursday evening, 14 October 2010, with three Elders, namely Messrs Neil Burgess and Myer Wolson, and Mrs Betty Wolson; five Stewards, namely Messrs Chris Scheepers, Pierre Mondriaan, and Andrew Bennie, and Mesdames Helen McConnell and Rosemary Purchase, and the Rev Dennis van der Spuy in attendance.

Sharing in the Sunday morning worship at 09:00 on 17 October 2010, with Mr Motshabi and Ms Crouch attending the service while Rev Goyns visited each of the four Sunday School classes and then returned in time for the last part of the sermon.

Meeting with the Congregation for about 15-20 mins immediately after the Sunday service for open discussion concerning the life and work of the church, with about 70 members in attendance, many of whom actively participated in the discussion.


Visiting the Minister and his wife, Pauline, at their home for morning tea after the service to discuss their personal joys and challenges in the ministry at St Francis.

The guidelines prepared by Rev Theo Groeneveld for consultations were used as a framework for the visitation to St Francis, and Session and Board Minutes were scrutinised, as well as the audited annual financial statements for the past three years. The consultation team met for a working lunch immediately after the Sunday visit to compare notes and come to agreement about what needed to be included in the report and what issues should be highlighted. Each team member was given the opportunity to provide input, peruse the draft report, and make additions/modifications before it was distributed to the Minister, Session and Board for their comments and approval. It was agreed that adequate time should be allowed for proper preparation and consideration of the report by all concerned prior to submitting it to Presbytery and that it might not, therefore, be presented to the November meeting but could be held over to February 2011.Ms Pearl Crouch and Rev Glynis Goyns met with the Minister and Session on Thursday evening 20/01/2011 to discuss the report. Apologies were received from Mr Bernhard Motshabi who had other commitments. Some factual corrections and minor adjustments were agreed to, and these changes were made prior to submission of the report for inclusion in the Presbytery papers for the February meeting.Some Historical BackgroundSt Francis was planted by St Columbas Presbyterian Church in Hatfield in 1969 when Rev Johan Kromberg was the Minister there. Initially, Sunday worship took place between two other Sunday services at St Francis Anglican Church, but moved to the newly purchased manse at the current premises on the corner of Club and Dely Streets in 1991. The current sanctuary was completed in 1998 and was set apart in April of that year by the Moderator of General Assembly at that time, Rev Alan Spence. Revs A Patterson (1978-1980), Charles Fensham (1986-1988) and Danie van Zyl (1980-1985) were initially responsible for the ministry at St Francis, until the congregation inducted its own Minister, Rev Doug Muller, in October 1990. Rev Muller served there until September 2001 and fulfilled the roles of Moderator of both Presbytery and General Assembly during his time at St Francis. Rev Muller was called to an overseas congregation in September 2001 and Rev Dennis van der Spuy was inducted in March 2002. Thus Rev van der Spuy is only the second full-time resident Minister to serve at St Francis in its 41 years of existence.Stained glass windows were installed in the sanctuary in 2000 and the hanging of three beautiful mission statement banners took place at the same time.The Church Property TodayRev Goyns had the opportunity to move around the church premises quite extensively as she visited each of the Sunday School classes on 17/10. Her overall impression was one of a clean, uncluttered and well-maintained property with good functional space and excellent aesthetics. The other team members concurred although their exposure to the property was more limited.

1. SanctuaryThe building is modern and in the form of a large square with a central “atrium” providing additional natural lighting. It is set out diagonally, with a raised, spacious area in the one corner for the pulpit, communion table and lecturn, and the entrance to the church in the opposite corner with a covered “portico” in case of rain. There is a wonderful sense of uncluttered space and light. Ease of mobility is provided by a wide central aisle, open space around the internal perimater of the sanctuary, on the raised area surrounding the pulpit and table, as well as between the rows of chairs. The


combination of stainglass windows, brightly coloured banners and spectacular floral arrangements created an atmosphere of peace and joy which greatly enhanced the spirit of praise and worship. Everything was orderly with electrical cords, etc limited to a small area to one side of the church where the Worship Team was located with its keyboard, guitars and “bongo” drums. The hymns and choruses were projected onto a screen, although hymn books were also available.Beautifully mounted and labelled photographs of the four Elders and the members in their districts were on display in the sanctuary.

2. Sunday SchoolThe building that originally served as the manse is now used for Sunday School classes. It is also rented out to a Montessori Nursery School from Monday to Friday, providing an additional source of income. The Sunday School classes were spread out with more than enough space to function effectively. Every room was clean, uncluttered, bright and filled with light, allowing for freedom of movement for activities and eliminating sound interference between classes and the worship taking place in the sanctuary. The furniture is age-appropriate with small bright plastic chairs and tables in the infant class and more than enough space to dance, run and jump. The senior class, comprising teenagers of about 17-18, was held in a room marked “Fellowship Groups”. This room, although small, was neat and comfortable, overlooking an enclosed courtyard. It is assumed that this room is also used for small group meetings at the church premises.In general, the Sunday School facilities provide real potential for growth in numbers.

3. Offices and Conference RoomThere are two bright and spacious offices with a range of modern office equipment, as well as a medium-sized conference room seating up to about 20 people around tables in a square formation. The conference room was used by the younger teenagers (13-16 years) for their Sunday School lesson.

4. Kitchen and Catering FacilitiesThere is a large well-equipped kitchen with a door leading to a paved outdoor area under shade-netting and a lawn.

5. Caretaker’s CottageThe Caretaker’s Cottage has recently been repaired and upgraded. The interior wasn’t inspected, but the exterior looked spruce, neat, and well-maintained.

6. Garden of RemembranceA small paved and fully enclosed Garden of Remembrance which is beautifully maintained and planted with flowering shrubs and perennials provides space for anyone wanting to spend quiet time in prayer.

7. Parking Area and GroundsPaved parking bays covered with shade-cloth have been erected along part of the perimeter of the property on Dely Str in partnership with a business across the road, which makes use of the secure parking at St Francis during the week. The rest of the grounds are under lawn with a few well-established trees and occasional shrubs.Recent Leadership RetreatA retreat, which included a broad spectrum of church leaders, was held at the Good Shepherd Retreat Centre at Hartebeespoort Dam from 30-31 July 2010. This event was facilitated by Mr Eugene Kloppers, an Elder at Highveld Presbyterian Community Church, and was attended by a gender, age and racially representative group of 22 people by invitation and at their own expense. The primary goals of the retreat as stated in the Session Minutes for June were to:


1. facilitate interaction between the Minister, Session and Board2. clarify responsibilities and facilitate decision-making3. create a safe environment to practise the New Commandment to love one another4. identify and counteract stumbling blocks5. discern God’s will for the congregation and determine how to respond appropriately6. pray throughout the retreat7. test ideas from brainstorming sessions.

At the Thursday evening meeting, the response of the Elders and Stewards to this retreat was very enthusiastic, leaving the Consultation with the impression that it had done much to renew flagging spirits, streamline the vision, and rekindle commitment. An interesting feature is the newly formulated vision statement, which involved “tightening up” a vision that has been evolving over many years, apparently inspired by the beautiful mission statement banners hung in 2000 – an unusual reversal of the usual process of banners emanating from mission statements!An organisational structure has been developed in association with the vision and this is currently in the process of being fleshed out as follows:

Reach up in faith to God our Saviouro Worship: Responsible Elder, Neil Burgess

Music: Paul Taylor and Hildegard Joseph Door stewards Readers Preaching Tea Visitors

Reach in to build the body of Christ in love and unityo Youth: Responsible Elder, Paul Taylor

Youth group: PJ Weir Smith assisted by Atli Phatudi Confirmation: Dennis van der Spuy Sunday School: Debbie and Leon Pretorius

o Spiritual growth: Responsible Elder, Neil Burgess Bible study groups Evening fellowship groups Ladies fellowship group Men for God Prayer meetings

o Pastoral care: Responsible Elder, Betty Wolson Helping Hands Home visits (Elders) Hospital visits Prayer chain

Reach out to spread the good news of Jesuso Evangelism and outreach: Responsible Elder, Paul Taylor

Evangelism Community service projects Presbytery project

o Management and stewardship


Administration: Responsible Elder, Myer Wolson Communication: Maree Mondriaan Stewardship Board and Finances: Tom Coetzee (Now Andrew Bennie) Auditing: Brian Stewart Fund-raising: Lorna Fick

o General Assembly and Presbytery: Dennis van der Spuy.With only a limited number of Elders and Board members, the Consultation was left with the impression that fleshing out this organisational structure and implementing it would pose quite a challenge to the congregation over the next few months. This should be a topic for supportive prayer by Presbytery! Mr Motshabi raised the question of eldership at the congregational meeting and asked whether there were any members who would refuse this responsibility if they were approached by the church leaders. No-one raised their hands, supposedly indicating a willingness by all present to serve as Elders if called to do so! Sunday Worship Service

1. AttendanceThere were approximately 70-75 people of all ages and cultures in attendance. The average attendance according to Session is 75. The sanctuary comfortably seats this number without leaving excessive seats standing empty, but still allowing for substantial growth in numbers before the sanctuary would become uncomfortably full.

2. ParticipationThe children and teenagers participated in the worship at the beginning of the service before leaving for their Sunday School classes. Bible readings were done by congregants according to a weekly roster.

3. Praise and WorshipThe style of worship was modern with a keyboard, guitars and “bongo” drums, using choruses projected onto a screen by means of a multi-media system with a clear, legible font that was easy to read. The worship group itself was vibrant, but participation by the congregation seemed a bit subdued. Mr Motshabi wondered whether the black members of the congregation were being adequately catered for in terms of the style of worship, but no feedback was specifically received in this regard. On the other extreme, there was also an indication form some congregants that they missed the more traditional hymns with organ accompaniment although a balance between hymns and gospel songs is maintained.

4. PrayerPrayers of praise, confession and intercession, including the Lord’s Prayer, were appropriately placed in the liturgy and were led by the Minister.

5. Preaching of the WordThe sermon was firmly founded on the Scriptures and focussed on the role of the Holy Spirit in equipping Christians to build up the body of Christ and to yield the fruits of the Spirit. The fact that every member is called to fulfill a special role was emphasized as opposed to simply being listed on the membership roll!The congregation appeared to be attentive and interested throughout the sermon. This was logically structured, clearly delivered, and appropriately pitched with modern illustrations and contextually relevant analogies.

Membership and Congregational DemographicsThe membership has remained fairly constant for the past three years, ranging between 154-159 members. However, the Minister pointed out that losses and additions tended to


cancel each other out due to considerable movement aggravated by the proximity of foreign embassies. A significant pruning process had also taken place in 2006/2007 when “dead wood” was trimmed off the roll, reducing the numbers from 200 to the current quota.It must be noted, however, that concern was expressed about the fluctuation in attendance. This would also be a relevant topic for supportive prayer by Presbytery.The congregational demographics are interesting with about 40% being “other colour groups”, but also representing a wide range of languages and a significant spread of ages. However, the Session and Stewardship Board do not appear to reflect the same degree of racial representivity. Session was of the opinion that there were fewer members in the 35-45 age bracket and that this had had a detrimental effect on the church finances as this would normally be the high income-earning sector in a congregation. Pensioners represent a fair percentage of the total membership, also with financial implications.New members are welcomed by means of an orientation meeting and two beautifully prepared introductory booklets, one explaining about St Francis and the Presbyterian mode of governance, and the other containing our new UPCSA Confession of Faith.Church Leadership

1. SessionThere are only four Elders currently serving on Session, excluding the Moderator. This poses a considerable challenge in terms of visitation and effectively fulfilling eldership duties/responsibilities, both of which were concerns expressed by the congregation during open discussion. Although contingency plans have been put in place following the retreat to deal with these issues in the interim, the congregation remains unconvinced that this will adequately address the problems, and the need to increase the number of serving Elders was expressed both by members and Session itself.Session meetings are generally held monthly, but informal meetings occasionally replace the formal meetings when only one or two Elders are able to attend. There were no formal Session meetings between 19/11/2009 and 04/03/2010, which included a period when the Moderator was on long leave from 01/01/2010 to 28/02/2010.A revival process was initiated following criticism regarding Elders not meeting their responsibilities and the need for them to take ownership and leadership of church activities rather than the Moderator on his own, as recorded in the Minutes for 04/03/2010. It was agreed, inter alia, at that meeting that:

b. More Elders were needed.c. A leadership retreat should be held.d. More and better interaction between the Elders and the congregation was a

priority.A concerted effort is currently being made to address these and other issues. The leadership retreat has taken place and seems to have been a resounding success. The need for more Elders and the restructuring process currently taking place at St Francis should be upifted in prayer by Presbytery over the next few months.

5. Stewardship BoardThere are currently eight Board members with Pierre Mondriaan as Chairperson and Tom Coetzee as Treasurer. The Board meets monthly, but it was noted that meetings were not held in March or April 2009, or in July 2010. A detailed income and expenditure statement is presented monthly. It was noted after the Sunday service on 17/10 that the Elders were left counting the offertory rather than circulating and interacting with congregants. A comment was made by one of the members that this duty was frequently carried out by the


Elders rather than the Stewards. The Consultation is of the opinion that relieving the Elders of this duty so they can circulate freely among congregants after church on Sunday would go a long way to restoring the relationship between the Elders and the congregation.

6. RecordsRecords for both Session and Board are well-kept, but the order in which some of the Minutes are pasted into the Minute Book suggests that these are not necessarily handled timeously after meetings, but in batches some time later. Also some of the Minutes had not been signed by both the Moderator and Session Clerk.

7. FinancesThe congregation had a deficit of R27 223 for the current year as of 31/08/2010. In 2006 and 2008, annual deficits were recorded of R52 404 and R81 299 respectively. There was an excess of income over expenditure in 2007 and 2009 of R206 697 and R7 270 respectively. At times of deficit, the congregation has been obliged to tap into its accumulated funds, completely depleting these as a result.

Monthly Income Over Twelve Months

09/09 10/09 11/09 12/09 01/10 02/10 03/10 04/10 05/10 06/10 07/10

Pledges 34 940 18 500 20 820 34 490 31 810 19 450 31 680 31 770 30 600 22 202 19 370

Open plate 8 899 7 490 7 196 5 284 9 632 6 463 9 254 8 641 10 396 7 014 6 309

Donations 150 3 000 800 5 000

Rental 9 060 4 530 4 530 4 530 4 530 9 180 4 890 4 890 4 890 4 890

Fund-raising 556 515 3 054 5 900 15 166 3 200 5 600

TOTAL 53 049 31 076 35 546 44 819 46 772 25 913 53 168 51 201 61 052 37 306 41 169

Annual Income Over Four Years

2006 2007 2008 2009

Pledges 279 860 426 975 293 355 430 640

Open plate 89 841 105 010 112 340 91 293

Donations 5 077 170 600 24 178 46 317

Rental 41 140 15 910 8 439 18 920

Fund-raising 44 880 46 585 50 380 54 260

Interest 339 810 1 634 4 554

TOTAL 461 137 765 890 490 326 645 984

Outstanding assessments owed to Presbytery and General Assembly have been steadily growing from R61 775 in 2006 to R219 754 at the end of 2009. Session and Board were adamant that they wanted to pay these assessments but could not do so because of limited resources. During open discussion with the congregation, two people were emphatic that the assessments should be paid in faith and that God would bless St Francis for its faithfulness with the necessary funds. However, opinions appeared to be divided on this issue. This is an important topic for prayer by the Presbytery and will probably become an issue for consideration by our Treasurer for recommendations concerning St Francis’ outstanding debt and what relief, if any, should be provided.St Francis uses an annual pledge system to facilitate the budgeting process, but the actual giving is anonymous and voluntary. When asked whether there mightn’t be more income received with tithing, the Minister said that pledges were encouraged on the basis of proportionate giving. A fluctation in giving from month-to-month and year-to-year was noted. Session pointed out that there were many pensioners whose income was fixed, presenting them with financial difficulties when confronted with the increase in cost of


living.The expenditure over the past four years increased by 8,9 % from 2006 to 2007, decreased by 2,2 % from 2007 to 2008, and increased by 11,7 % from 2008 to 2009. Total month-to-month expenditure was as follows:

Monthly Expenditure Over Twelve Months

09/09 10/09 11/09 12/09 01/10 02/10 03/10 04/10 05/10 06/10 07/10

R49 286 R58 299 R62 850 R98 695 R33 236 R53 717 R50 507 R52 481 R56 539 R62 030 R29 542

Sunday School8. Sunday Morning Bible Study

On Sunday 17/10, there were four Sunday School classes catering for various age groups, namely:

a. Grades 9-12 with PJ Weir Smith taking the lesson on prayer and four youngsters in attendance. A traditional teaching approach was used with not much interaction from the teens themselves, although they seemed to be fairly attentive.

b. Grades 6-8 with Debbie Pretorius taking the lesson on the spiritual disciplines of fasting and obedience. There were four youngsters present and an interactive teaching approach was used with many open-ended questions to encourage discussion. There seemed to be a good appreciation of the importance of obedience for improved quality of life, but considerable bewilderment about the idea of fasting and how one could benefit from this.

c. Grades 3-5 with Mercy Mpofu taking the lesson on the Old Testament book of Kings using archeological findings as the basis for comparative analysis and discussion. There were three youngsters in attendance and a traditional teaching approach was used. The children participated in reading the Bible text and were attentive and clearly interested in the subject matter and how it was being presented.

d. Grades 0-2 with Jean Nel telling the story about the raising of Jairus’ daughter and grappling with the concepts of death, resurrection and healing. This seemed to be a bit beyond the children’s level of understanding. A time of song was included. The four children in attendance were clearly familiar with the lyrics and melodies, participating enthusiastically in the singing. One little boy was there for the first time. He was warmly welcomed and made to feel part of the family despite a slight agression on his part and difficulty in establishing his name.

The teachers are working to a three-year plan. Each child attends the same class for three years, during which time the entire Bible is covered. After attending Sunday School for 12 years, therefore, each child should have completed the entire Bible four times. Each year, the programme consists of 11 lessons on the Old Testament and 11 on the New Testament, together with three lessons on other topics of Christian interest. The particular focus of study shifts to suit the particular age group. The material covered in 2010 included:

i. Old Testament: The Pentateuch (Genesis, Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers, and Deuteronomy)

ii. New Testament: The life of Jesus up to the last week of his life (Gospels)

There was no specific link with the sermon topic of the day. It might be of value to explore


a more participative and interactive approach in some of the classes, but the Consultation is aware that the visit to each class lasted no more than 10 minutes due to time constraints and impressions were therefore fleeting and not necessarily accurate. Moreover, this is the opinion of only one member of the team.

3. Sunday Evening Youth GroupA Sunday evening youth group had only just been launched and was due to meet for the second or third time. The response of the teenagers who were approached for comment seemed to be positive, although they were unclear about what activities would take place and they were still few in number.Ongoing Regular Church Activities

1. Sunday Morning Dutiesb. Flower roster: Members provide floral arrangements for the Sunday morning

services. Those on display on 17/10 were magnificent.c. Creche roster: Volunteers provide care for babies and toddlers on Sunday

mornings to enable parents to worship freely.d. Tea roster: Members assist with serving tea after the Sunday service.e. Door stewards: Members are welcomed by door stewards at the entrance to

the church and are given printed intimation sheets.6. Pastoral Care

g. In times of need, an effort is made to put people in touch with each other to provide the necessary assistance and pastoral care.

h. Members of small groups also take each other under their wings in troubled times.

i. Hospital and home visits are done by the Minister when members are ill.–Prayer–There is a Tuesday morning dawn prayer group that meets weekly to pray about all matters pertaining to the life and work of the church.–On Sunday mornings, members gather in the Fellowship Room at the church at 08:40 for 15 minutes of prayer before the start of the service.–There is an intercessory prayer chain to intercede on behalf of those with specific needs.–Bible Study–A ladies’ Bible study meets in the vestry every Monday morning at 10:00–A home group is hosted by Hannelie Basson in Brooklyn on Tuesday nights at 19:30 for fellowship, pastoral care and Bible study.–The Minister runs a School of the Bible in the boardroom at St Francis from 09:00-11:00 on Wednesdays for in-depth study of particular books of the Bible or special topics. He develops the material for these classes himself.3 Fellowship3.1 The Tuesday evening home groups mentioned above also build fellowship and a

sense of community/family.3.2 A ladies’ fellowship meets on the first Wednesday of every month at 09:30 for a time

of fellowship and a specially planned activity.3.3 A Men’s Breakfast Fellowship takes place on the second Saturday of every month

from 07:00-09:00 with talks on specialised subjects.3.3.1 Outreacha) Mondi recycling project: All types of paper are collected for recycling in the interests of

our environment. Funds generated by this project go the the Ladies’ Fellowship towards the cost of Sunday morning tea.


b) Food outreach: A basket is placed in the entrance to the church for items of food which are then distributed to needy families through Pretoria Community Ministries (Tshwane Leadership Foundation).

c) Clothing project: Second-hand clothing is collected and distributed to needy communities such as Ruighoek and Pretoria Community Ministries (TLF).

4. NewsletterA church newsletter is produced every alternate month with photographs, kiddies’ activities, news of upcoming events, birthdays, articles of topical interest, and a message from the Minister.Recent Activities

Fund-raisingA number of successful fund-raising activities had been held during the course of 2010, including:

A Fun Walk on Saturday 09/10 on Klapperkop which raised just over R13 000 for St Francis and R1 500 for the National Cancer Association of Southern Africa.

A jumble sale which raised R5 581. A Bingo evening which provided both fun and fellowship as well as raising

R3 221. A spit braai on 17 May which raised R6 115. A golf day in the first quarter of the year which raised R25 920. Christmas in July after the service on 22/07 raising R9 000, which was

allocated to reduce the amount owing on assessments. Youth Group

As mentioned above, a youth group has recently been established and meets on Sunday evenings in someone’s home.

Soup and Pasta EveningsRegular soup and pasta evenings have been introduced with limited attendance by invitation to help bridge the gap between the Elders and congregants, and to build fellowship.

Leadership RetreatThis has already been dealt with above.

Renovation of Caretaker’s CottageThis has already been dealt with above.

Updating of Membership RollThe membership roll is currently being updated and members details checked.

Future Action Under ConsiderationSession Minutes indicate that the following future action is currently under consideration:

a quarterly communications forum starting in the last quarter of 2010 quarterly family services with the children saying prayers, doing the Bible readings,

etc design of a new church Logo.

Congregational Input from 17/10/2010Members of the congregation who remained after the Sunday service on 17/10 for open discussion with the Consultation totalled about 70 in all. The following questions were put to the congregation and adequate time allowed for members to respond freely should they choose to do so:

1. What are your greatest joys as a congregation?


There was an enthusiastic and widespread response to this question with several members expressing similar views that can be summarised as follows:1. a strong spirit of togetherness, community and intimate, caring family2. the organist and music ministry3. an accessible and responsive Minister.

2. What challenges are you confronting as a congregation at present?1. the need to grow and encourage the prayer ministry, developing a deeper sense

of the power of prayer (Although this was also seen as a source of celebration re existing prayer ministries.)

2. the need to grow spiritually and in numbers3. the need to build up the youth at St Francis4. the need to supplement and build up the congregation’s finances5. the need to pay assessments in faith.

3. What frustrations do you experience as a congregation?1. management of visitation and who is responsible for what2. irregular attendance at Sunday services3. a decline in membership, partly due to dissatisfaction, inter alia, with the lack of

visitation4. insufficient Elders to perform their duties effectively and why this should be so5. ineffective communication6. non-payment of assessments and how to rectify this.

Visitation to Ministerial CoupleRev van der Spuy and his wife graciously served tea and cake to the team members in the comfort of their home after the service on Sunday. The Consultation was left with the impression that sacrifices had been made by the ministerial couple in time, effort and money for the sake of the congregation and the ministry at St Francis. Mrs van der Spuy made the observation that there seemed to be less sense of community at St Francis compared to more rural or small town congregations. The Consultation was of the opinion that Rev and Mrs van der Spuy had limited time together as a couple due to the nature of Mrs van der Spuy’s work and the normal call of duty upon a Minister. It was felt that Mrs van der Spuy would like to be more involved in the life and work of the congregation, but found this impossible due to the demands of her work.Despite these difficulties, Rev van der Spuy was clearly still enthusiastic about serving the Lord and committed to the congregation at St Francis. He probably has about four more years to serve in the ministry before considering retirement. Mrs van der Spuy is also approaching retirement age and this has implications for them in ensuring their future.Concluding RemarksThe Consultation commends St Francis, its Elders, Stewards and Minister for their efforts in:1. maintaining a well-maintained, clean, orderly and aesthetically pleasing sanctuary and

church premises2. tackling their financial challenges courageously and enthusiastically, inter alia, by

concerted fund-raising3. continuing with enthusiastic prayer, worship, Bible study, fellowship, pastoral care and

community outreach despite their current difficulties4. embarking upon a structured revival process and strategy to address specific problems5. tackling the responsibilities of eldership in the best way possible with only four serving

Elders.


The Consultation notes with concern:a) some underlying tensions were evident among a few of the congregants (Session

expressed the view that this was due to a lack of information or insightb) the growing debt to Presbytery and General Assembly with regard to assessmentsc) fluctuations in planned giving suggesting that pledges are not being honouredd) the desire of many members for

5. more home visitation6. more intimate pastoral care7. better rapport between the Elders and the congregation.

It was also a source of concern to the Consultation that the ministerial couple:1. needed more leisure time together2. seemed to be somewhat isolated from the sense of community experienced by other

members3. were giving sacrificially of themselves.

The Consultation urges Presbytery to support St Francis in prayer regarding the following:the appointment of a new Administratorincreasing its number of serving Eldersincreasing its attendance and membershiprepaying its debt re assessments and thereafter meeting its commitment to the denominationgrowing its youth ministrytapping into the opportunity for growth in the Sunday Schoolimplementing the restructuring process arising from the leadership retreatconsidering God’s will in implementing future action currently under considerationthe excessive burden of responsibility carried by the current Eldersthe ministerial couple and the challenges that they facedisgruntled members of the congregation.The Consultation thanks St Francis and their ministerial couple for their warm hospitality and willingness to talk openly about the life and work of the church. Many of the difficulties currently being experienced by St Francis were also challenges confronting other congregations, including those to which the consultation team members belong. St Francis is, therefore, not alone in grappling with how to be the church in a rapidly changing and increasingly stressful and secular society. We pray God’s blessing as members faithfully continue to honour, serve and witness to the Lord Jesus at and through St Francis.ProposalIt is proposed that Presbytery

1. receives the report2. undertakes to pray about the issues listed above3. considers what, if any, assessment relief should be granted to St Francis.

5.3 Garankuwa William Manaka

Moderator and Commissioners, this report covers the period from the 1st December 2010 to January 2011.. I am delighted to report to the presbytery and Presbytors that the congregational meeting, the kirk session as well as Board of management meeting were conducted to address the life and work of the congregation including the possibility to continue with the preparation for the Church structure.


The Board Members are negotiating building contract with another builder after having been disappointed by the previous builder who did not comply with the contents of the initial contract. The process is nearing an end and this Court will be informed of the development in due course.

The church attendance is improving as we have new members joining the Church. I can report that the congregation has registered four new members. House visits were conducted to the sick members while Holy Communion was served to those in need.

Confirmations, Baptism and Holy Communion were conducted during December 2011 while only Communion was served during January 2011.

Garankua should have their own resident Minister as they are beginning to be ready. We made an application for a probationer which was unsuccessful. It will be appreciated if this court can assist differently in identifying a Minister for the Congregation.

It is my wish that the General Assembly can speedily finalise the Uniform issues in the entire Church, since it has a negative impact on the development of the Church while it compromises the integrity of other congregations

Moderator it is my privilege to report to this Court that my term of office as the Interim Moderator of this Congregation has come to an end today as stipulated in the Presbytery records. Thank you for giving me the opportunity to lead and guide this congregation for the period of two years. It will be appreciated if I can be rotated where there is a need for my services.

That is the body of the report.

Proposals

1. That the presbytery receives the report with thanks to the convener.

2. The Presbytery to encourage the Congregation to finalise the building project and report progress to this court.

3. The Presbytery assists the congregation in finding the Minister to lead and guide the congregation further.

4. That I be discharged from my responsibilities as the Interim- Moderator with effect from the 14th February 2011.

5.4 Khayakhulu Nokhalipha Nonjojo

1. This is my first report after having been charged with a ministerial responsibility over Khayakhulu Congregation in our February Presbytery Meeting. The Presbytery did that in my absence and could not consider my availability or non-availability hopefully inspired or propelled by the power of the Holy Spirit. And as the Servant called to serve I heard to comply hoping not to complain later but mumble. I am not particularly sure as to the format or proforma for the report, please accept my apology in advance in case I have gone out of the required formula.

2. Moderator having reported to the Congregation on the 7th February 2010 and these are some of the observations as I continue to minister to Khayakhulu Congregation:

- The vastness of the Congregation makes it quite impractical to be able to assess and properly identify the problem areas and thus provide mechanisms to bring about solutions if necessary being an Interim Moderator residing some distant kilometers away.

- The Congregation is not financially viable owing to the fact that even though there may be


about 9 preaching outstations including the Main Station but we are here referring to the membership of less than 5 people in some of these. And in some as it is the case in a number of rural Congregations, the church is supported by elderly members whose financial support is pension/grant from the Government. Another observation is that whilst this membership can be of high numbers but it is also constituted of Mine workers who amongst them claim to be contributing to their respective home Congregations whereas they benefit on a number of sacraments in the Khayakhulu Congregations. This hampers tremendously the growth of the Congregation both numerically as well as financially. A lot of education/ministerial guidance on matters relating to the Church at large and responsibilities of different officials on different levels is highly required.

- When we count statistics of the Congregation we talk of about 100+ membership.

- My humble request is that the services of an Evangelist can best heal the situation as the Congregation is at the present moment not in a better position to have a Resident Minister. It is my firm belief that with the services of an ECD Khayakhulu Congregation can be resuscitated and be in par with the rest of other Congregations in this Presbytery.

- We have been blessed by an outreach from the Church of Scotland, thanks to the ambassadorship of Rev Mbaru for this Congregation. We are hopeful that with this undertaking something of value will be advanced to rescue the Congregation from being a Flock without a Shepherd.

- The amalgamation of Ruighoek and Khayakhulu is a step to right direction but can only be effective with close monitoring i.e. a Resident Minister or an Evangelist to facilitate the process of union.

Proposals

1. The Presbytery receives the report

2. Considers sending the Evangelist or the Stated Supply so as to facilitate the Twinning Process.

3. Urge the Integration Committee to speed up the process exploring mechanisms for an amalgamation so as to afford these Congregations a realistic Congregational status.

4. Workshops both of Session, Board of Management and probably Office bearers in the Associations is needed.

5.5 Mabopane Mantsi Mohapi

1. The sole aim of the report is to request the Presbytery to grant Mabopane congregation the “right to call”, with the view to present the call to “a” Minister at the Presbytery meeting of May 2011.

2. HISTORICAL BACKGROUNDDuring the last past 10 years the congregation has existed as a constitutional congregation. Their first residential Minister (Rev. D. Nanyane) stayed for +/- 7 years. It is on record that during the last four (4) years of his ministry, the congregation was able to meet all the financial obligations without the assistance from both Presbytery and General Assembly. It is also heart warming to inform the Presbytery that during the year 2010, the congregation was able to pay the former minister more than the recommended stipend and traveling allowance. The congregation was also able to provide a medical aid of R1500.00 every month.

3. LOGISTICAL REQUIREMENTThe congregation has a place of worship that can easily accommodate 350 worshipers. It also has a modern manse which is +/- 5 years old.


4. ORGANISATIONAL STRUCTURE- The membership of the congregation stands at 290 members.- The following organisations do exist and are active in the life of the congregation Session which meets once per monthWomans FellowshipEmmanuelSunday SchoolYouthAmododanaChoirStewardship Committee

5. SERVICEOn an ordinary Sunday service +/- 150 members do attend.

6. FINANCIAL STRENGTHS OF THE CONGREGATIONDuring the last seven years when the congregation had a full time Minister, the congregation has been growing financially every year. May I take the opportunity to report the current status of the finances as following:

Financial Report Jan – Dec 2010

1. Balance brought forward from 2009 = R69,458.34

2. Income received from Jan – Dec 2010 = R234,716.18

Balance brought forward and total income received = R304,174.52

Expenditure Jan – Dec 2010

Total Expenditure for 2010 = R166,235.51

Balance carried forward in 2011 = R137,939.00

A proper financial statement will be prepared for the February 2011 meeting of Presbytery. On the last Sunday of November 2010 the congregation was able to fund raise an amount of R32,453.00

The Situational analysis of the Interim Moderator

I have no doubt that this congregation has matured spiritually, emotionally and in giving. They have really combined their faith and action. I therefore recommend the Presbytery to grant Mabopane congregation the “right to call a minister” so that we can start the process of calling a minister and present the call of a minister in May Presbytery 2011. It is the sincere wish of the congregation to have the resident minister in July/August 2011.

Proposals

1. Presbytery receives the report.

2. The Presbytery to note that the Interim Moderator has communicated to the leadership that is there are any arrears of assessments of both Presbytery and General Assembly they will be settled before the call is presented to the Presbytery of May 2011.

3. The Presbytery grant the Mabopane Presbyterian Church the “right to call” on the basis of the recommendation of the Interim Moderator.

4. The Presbytery to note, it is the wish of the congregation to present a call to a minister in May 2011, with the view that the new Minister must start ASAP.

5.6 Ruighoek Vuyo Mbaru


Nothing new to report.

5.7 Thumedi Makgahlela Mafasa Nyama

Thumedi Makgahlela congregation is in good heart and the services are been maintained.

LIFE AND WORK:The congregation is growing very slow as the old members are received back. New members are also received but in small number. The leadership is still a big challenge to the congregation as most of the work was done by members who moved to Pretoria Central. We are working hard to equip those who are will to take over from the previous leaders. It has been observed that “the congregation is slaved by a fear that is not clear”. They are willing to serve but they are reluctant when they supposed to carry on with the duties assigned to. Prayers are requested to find solution that can help to free the member from that fear.

PASTORAL CARE:

THUMEDI MAKGAHLELAMembers are faced with a big challenge of repairing the damage in the building. Towards the end of last year there was a strong wind with rain and the ceiling fell down. During this heavy rain that we have now, the fisher boards are also falling off.

REGTESLOOTOn the 5th December 2010 the session visited the out Regtesloot station ( 133 kilometers single trip away from Attridgeville) by request of the congregation. The members painfully expressed their frustrations and wanted to know why they are not cared for. Though they don’t have enough contribution to the session, they are pleading with the Session that they should be catered for with Holy Communion and their grown up children be baptised either quarterly or twice a year. The session informed them that there is a suggestion to move them to the nearer station but while the Presbytery committee is still addressing that the Session will help.

SEPHAI The session have not done any attempt to this congregation but it is in the plan to visit them.

BUYING OUT GRANT: The session is still waiting for it.

In terms of the interim Moderators expectation to the congregation, it regrettable to inform the session that the congregation is not yet ready to get resident minister. As it has been stated above that the growth is slow, I think the congregation should be given another chance to grow before the presbytery can think of appointing either a probationer or a minister.

Proposals:



6. Ministry

6.1 Convener's Report Sisanda Mpafi

I greet you all in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.

So far six (6) ministers have submitted their emoluments namely: -Rev Dr G Duncan, Rev P Nyawuza, Rev M Mtyhobile, Rev G Sinclair, Rev S Mpafi and Rev G.J Langeveld.

I have received a letter from Rev Harry Munnings stating that, he will be retiring and moving to the Presbytery of the Central Cape. He also stated that in terms of his pension fund he will negotiate the best arrangements as he will still be in a position to pay or contribute into the pension fund as he will be sixty eight (68) years on the 23rd of January 2012.

I also received a report from Andries, the interim moderator of Cullinan stating that Cullinan congregation is vacant. Frikkie Botha who was a probationer there last year has moved away and left the congregation and they are now making arrangements for Stated Supply. (Details in the Premier Mine Cullinan report)

The Clerk received a letter from General Assembly Ministry committee confirming the probation of Nathanael Khola at Trinity Presby. A proposal regarding licensing follows.

A letter was passed on from the Clerk to this committee from Llewellyn Scott and the Middleburg Session informing us of the appointment of a youth worker and requesting the approval of long leave for the minister. Extracts and proposals follow:

I would like to inform Presbytery that St John’s Presbyterian Church in Middelburg has appointed a fulltime Youth Worker as from January 2011.

This is an exciting time for St. John’s in that we are now able to give more attention to our young folk with a view to raise up and develop young leadership within the Church.

Please pray for guidance and strength for our Youth Leader (Douglas Bower) as he answers God’s call on his life

Please be informed (and my apologies for the lateness of this information) that the Session of St. John’s have agreed to my taking one month’s Long Leave (30 days) in February 2011.

I will not be drawing any monies from the Long Leave Fund so General Assembly is not affected by this decision

Proposal


2. Presbytery takes note of the number of ministers who have not submitted their emoluments.

3. Propose that the presbytery receives the retirement of Rev Harry Munnings.

4. Presbytery sets ______________ for the licensing of Nathanael Khola at Trinity Congregation and appoints the Moderator and the Clerk (or his deputy) to officiate.

5. Presbytery grants long leave to Llewellynn Scott from Middleburg congregation for 30 days noting that he does not intend to claim from the long leave fund.

6. Presbytery notes the appointment of a Douglas Bower as a youth worker at St Johns Middleburg.


6.2 Seconded Ministers Reports 6.2.1. Graham DuncanDuring 2010, the work to which I am seconded has remained essentially the same and consists of Teaching and learning, research and community engagement. As Head of the Department of Church History and Church Polity and Faculty Programme coordinator, I also have a substantial commitment to administration and serve on a number of Faculty and Senate committees related to teaching and learning.

In terms of professional development, I was promoted to full professor during the year and completed the University of Pretoria Post Graduate Certificate in Higher Education with distinction.

Within the Presbytery of Tshwane, I continue to serve on the college of ministers at St Andrew's, Pretoria and do regular pulpit supply at Highveld Presbyterian Community Church.

Proposals:

1. Presbytery receives the Report.

6.2.2. Mantsi MohapiThis is to confirm that the Revd Mantsi J. Mohapi is still seconded to the original post he was seconded by the General Assembly of 1996. Therefore the Presbytery is humbly informed that Mantsi J. Mohapi is still a chaplain to the SANDF. The Revd M.J. Mohapi is grateful to both the church and God, as he continues to serve his Almighty God within the armed forces.

Proposals

1. Presbytery receives the report

6.2.3. Mafasa NyamaGreetings and compliments of the new year to you all.

In respond to the call to disclose our status in terms of the Manual of Faith and Order: clause16.115(a) please herewith resceive the following.

As a seconded to serve in the South African Police Services, I’m glad to inform you that I’m still serving this organisation. There is no changes in my career. I’m still willing to serve them though there are some frustrations within the organisation in terms of growth.

The organisation is presently giving _____1 Gross Salary per month excluding deductions.

Hope this will put a clear picture about my status in this church.

Proposals:


6.2.4. Sello MamaboloReport of Rev.S.S.Mamabolo as a Reserve Chaplain at SANDF (Head Quarters)

Introduction.I wish to thank the Session of Soshanguve Presbyterian Church and the Presbytery of Tshwane for giving me an opportunity to serve as a Reserve Chaplain. I am utilized on the basis of a ‘’call up’’ system which means that I am called up whenever my services are

1 At the time of publishing, this amount had not been clarified.


required.

Responsibilities.I conduct devotions at allocated meetings and functions.

I provide pre and post marriage counseling to the staff members.

I perform pastoral care to traumatized, bereaved members and their families , conducting funerals and offer spiritual care to the members.

I facilitate seminar or workshop for people living with HIV and AIDS.

Benefits.Through the exposure and serving in the SANDF I have experienced personal growth and self – development. My skills and competences in the areas of counseling, spiritual care and support have been sharpened which in turn benefits the Church and the community where I serve.

Proposals.


6.3 Fellowship of Vocation Convenor: Gary Sinclair

In reflecting upon the Fellowship of Vocation (FoV) of last year, 2010, there is more than sufficient reason to be filled with thanksgiving: to the broader church community of the UPCSA for their involvement in a number of ways, but especially to the Lord for His good providence toward and within the group.

As an FoV, we strive to meet on the first Friday of each month for teaching and fellowship, all of which is part of the process to prepare and discern God's call in the lives of our brothers and sisters in Christ. In past year, Andries and myself covered the areas of teaching as prescribed by the G.A., and were able to encourage discussion in a number of other areas too. At each meeting, we had between seven and ten in attendance.

In June last year, we made a request to the congregations in the Presbytery to assist us with financial donations in order that we may be able to purchase reference books (mainly commentaries) for those who attend regularly. It's with joy that we report that during 2010, we were able to distribute a total of 50 books, as a result of the generous donations we received. We do want to say thank you to those congregations, and the individual members of the congregations, who have sowed into the lives of our future ministers and church workers. We would once again request that if there is a congregation, or individuals, who senses God leading them to contribute during 2011, please contact Andries or myself for details.

PROPOSALS


2. To note that the FoV gives thanks to God for His providence AND requests Presbytery to keep the FoV in their prayers through 2011.

3. The FoV thanks the congregations and individuals who contributed financially to the 'Book Fund' of the students. We humbly request the Presbytery Commissioners to convey our appreciation to the Sessions and members concerned.


7. Church Development and Planning

7.1 Conveners Report Theo Groeneveld

The report for this quarter is brief:

1. We have only received one suggestion for Mission work to support and that is for Bryan and Lara Davies from Witbank Congregation who are working in North Africa.

2. We are working towards getting a committee established

3. We have been asked to support a request for funding from the Assembly Committee for St Thomas Congregation for the building of structures at the Mathibestad and Makapanstad outstations. A verbal description of the work will be given at Presbytery.

4. The Assembly Committee is planning a gathering of CDP conveners later this year.

5. We are still working to implement a Church Development Forum.

Proposals:


2. Presbytery supports the application for funds from the Assembly Committee by St Thomas.

7.2 Grace Nuclear Congregation Theo Groeneveld

Services continue to be better and better attended. Elders have been elected and a first session meeting has been held. Grace will probably apply for transitional status in May or Aug.

Proposals:


7.3 Premier Mine – Cullinan Andries Combrink.

1. Frikkie Botha served the congregation with distinction. During 2009 he served as Stated Supply and as CDE and during 2010 as probationer minister. On Sunday 2 January 2011 the congregation acknowledged his contribution towards leading them to being able to function as a separate congregation during well attended farewell lunch.

2. The congregation now provides regular Sunday services. A well organised and equipped Sunday School and Ladies Ministry compliment well supported Sunday worship services. The congregation is involved with community work and appreciated for its mercy ministry within the Cullinan and Rayton communities.

3. The financial situation improved to a level where the congregation is able to afford Ministry and they desire Stated Supply to continue the growth path of the last 2 years.


4. During November 2010 the Rev John Myers started to worship at Premier Mine, after returning from the Copperbelt Presbytery where he served as stated supply for 5 years, doing the work of a minister of Word and Sacrament. He expressed interest to serve Premier Mine as stated supply. He preached twice and had several discussions with the elders. At a Session meeting on 13 January Session agreed to seek the congregation’s approval for his appointment as Stated Supply and on 16 January the congregation decided to request Presbytery to appoint the Rev John Myers as Stated Supply to Premier Mine Presbyterian Church. Session and Rev Myers agreed on a compensation package. (More information and documentation about the Rev John Myers will be made available at Presbytery’s meeting.)

5. The congregation is excited to be able to continue to work towards further growth and the establishment of a vibrant assembly doing God’s work.

6. The term of the current IM expires during February 2011 and the Rev Dennis van der Spuy was appointed the new IM at the last Presbytery meeting.

Proposals:


2. Presbytery appoints, with immediate effect, the Rev John Myers for an initial period of one year as Stated Supply to the Premier Mine Presbyterian Church.

7.4 St Andrews Emalahleni Llewellyn Scott

Generally things are running smoothly. Worship services are held every Sunday and Communion once a month on the second Sunday of the month.

Session meetings are held monthly and there is a need for at least another three elders.

Attendance is not what it should be and both the minister and the eldership are addressing this issue. There is still some conflict within the Church that needs to be resolved and this can only happen over a period of time. The elders and congregation are searching their hearts for the way forward.

There is a strong feeling that the Church should relocate and the leadership are praying about and looking at this as an option for the future. There is no immediate plan for relocation – the leadership are only looking at the feasibility of such a move. The area where St. Andrew’s is currently situated has become unsafe and is surrounded mainly by homes that have become business premises. Younger families are relocating to housing complexes and mainly on the other side of the highway in the vicinity of Witbank Dam. A committee needs to be set up to investigate the possibility of establishing an out station in an area with young families, close to schools and other amenities – this committee needs to be established within the fist quarter of 2011.

The congregation is of good heart and ready to follow wherever our Shepherd may lead. The Sunday School and youth work, though small, continue to meet on a regular basis led by faithful leaders as does the worship team.

Gerard is in his final year as stated supply to St. Andrew’s and his future within the denomination needs to be considered by the Ministry Committee in order for him and his wife to be able to plan ahead.

I move that;



2. Presbytery encourages Gerard and the eldership, through prayer and support,

in the work that they are doing under difficult circumstances

3. The Ministry Committee should start a process of finalising Gerhard’s future

8. Doctrine and Remits

8.1 Doctrine Report Convenor: Gary Sinclair

The Committee (comprising Alan Cameron and myself) received two remits, this quarter, for discussion and consideration. The first remit details the proposed changes to the 'UPCSA Confession of Faith'; the second requests Presbyteries to consider & approve the 'Points of Doctrine Fundamental for Ordination as a Minister or an Elder'.

REMIT GA/10/01 ~ Decision 2 in GA Confessions of Faith Report

General Assembly requested Presbyteries to consider and approve the changes to the UPCSA Confession of Faith as detailed in Appendix A and B of the GA Confession of Faith papers.

We recommend that the Presbytery accept the proposed changes with the following amendments:

(a) Article 2.4 ~ to read “Jesus came to the Jews as their long promised Messiah, identifying fully with them...”

(b) Article 3.1 ~ remove from the last sentence, “...and partisan of the oppressed...” This Article covers injustice as a whole, including oppression.

(c) Article 5.2 ~ while we agree with the use of the word “ingenerate” to describe the Father, in light of the Arian heretical use of the same phrase, we ask the Committee to elaborate the Christian meaning in order to avoid confusion and misinterpretation.

(d) Article 12.1 ~ end Article with “...we need to express it in their own languages and cultural concepts.”

(e) Article 13.9 ~ delete the proposed addition “...and to His atonement for the sins of the whole world...” This proposed change is not clear, especially within the context of where this Article is positioned within the Confession (The Way of Redemption ~ Election and Covenant). The atonement was sufficient for the sins of the whole world but efficient for the sins of the elect...

REMIT GA/10/02 ~ Decision 3 in GA Confessions of Faith Report

'Points of Doctrine Fundamental for Ordination as a Minister or an Elder'

This statement is a brief summary of the central tenets of the Christian faith that Ministers & Elders will affirm at their ordination.

Assembly sent down for discussion the following:

6.change the title of the statement from 'Points of Doctrine Fundamental for Ordination as a Minister or an Elder' to 'Essential Doctrine for Ordination as a Minister or an Elder' AGREED.

7.add to point 16... “and for corruption” AGREED.


In addition, we request the Committee to consider the following:

8. to consider and approve the 'Points of Doctrine...' statement as per Appendix C.As a Committee, we propose an addition to point 10 (underlined), to read: 'True faith involves repentance from sin and obedience to Christ as Lord and Saviour...'

9.For ease of use, we recommend that an alpha-numerical system be used for each new statement.

10.In the opening paragraph, we propose the insertion of the following, “The following is a list of the essential points of doctrine that candidates for ordination into the Ministry of Word and Sacrament or into the Eldership are required to accept and to affirm these 'Essential Doctrines' as the confession of their faith, without exception...”

As of February 2011, with the Presbytery's approval, I propose that the Rev Alan Cameron serve as Convenor. I will continue to serve as a member of the Doctrine Committee.

PROPOSALS


2. Presbytery accepts the proposed changes to the UPCSA Confession of Faith with the following exceptions as per the body of the report (amendments for further discussion by the GA Com.): Article 2.4; 3.1; 5.2; 12.1; 13.9Acceptance of proposal is conditional on acceptance of the amendments.

3. Presbytery accepts the title change of REMIT GA/10/02 to 'Essential Doctrine for Ordination as a Minister or an Elder'.

4. Presbytery accepts the addition to point 16 of REMIT GA/10/02, “and for corruption...”.

5. Presbytery proposes the amendments to REMIT GA/10/02, as per body of the report [3,4,5] Acceptance of proposal is conditional on acceptance of the amendments.

6. Presbytery appoints the Rev Alan Cameron to serve as Doctrine Convenor

8.2 Finance Committee Remit Eddie Stopforth on behalf of Finance Committe.

OVERTURE 3:

PAYMENT OF ASSESSMENTS AND THE CALLING OF MINISTERS:

The Presbytery of the Western Cape resolved that:

“The Presbytery of the Western Cape overtures the venerable General Assembly:

1. to permit congregations that are not up to date with their assessments to General Assembly and/or their Presbyteries to call a minister, provided that they have supplied justification acceptable to their Presbyteries for their failure to be up to date.

2. to instruct:

i) its Finance Committee to work through Presbytery Treasurers and Finance Committees to ensure that congregations pay their assessments to General Assembly and their Presbyteries; and

ii) to amend the Manual of Faith and Order by removing the words”or are in arrears with the payment of assessments to the Council of the Church” from chapter 16 para 3 and any


other reference to the same rule from the Manual of Faith and Order of the UPCSA.”

Referred to Presbyteries for comment and report back at the Executive Commission of 2011

Proposed response: That Presbytery rejects the overture for the following reasons:

The relationship between a congregation and the minister it has called is, potentially, life-long. A congregation wishing to enter into such a relationship needs to be as sure as it can be that it can sustain that relationship. There must, surely, be questions of sustainability raised in regard to a congregation that has been unable to keep its assessments to General Assembly and/or the local Presbytery up to date.

A Presbytery appointment of a minister will give such a congregation a bit of time to get their financial affairs in order. The appointed minister could, by arrangement with the Presbytery, be the person of the congregation’s choice and there would be no reason why this person could not be called at a later date.

Having the right of call is a privilege given to congregations who are in good standing in the church; congregations that have proved their ability and willingness to share in the responsibilities associated with membership of the UPCSA. While it is fully appreciated that a great many congregations, previously in good standing, are having difficulties meeting their assessment obligations, the solution to this problem is to address the rate of assessment rather than to remove the privilege associated with the right of call.

Removing the privilege associated with the right of call would deny the Finance Committee and the Presbyteries one of the very few mechanisms available to encourage/ enforce the payment of assessments.

PROPOSAL:

1. Tshwane Presbytery vote against the overture.

9. Associations ReportGlynis Goyns

IntroductionIn mid-January, I met individually with the Presidents of the PWF, MCG, Emmanuel Fellowship, and Choir to discuss my brief from Presbytery as Convenor of the Associations’ Committee, obtain details concerning the Executive Committees of our Tshwane associations and planned activities for 2011, and formulate an acceptable mode of operation for the Associations’ Committee.

Not all of the details for 2011 were available at the time of writing this report. More information will, therefore, need to follow at our next Council Meeting. However, all those with whom I met seemed comfortable with my brief from Presbytery (as published in the last set of Minutes) and with the idea of meeting quarterly prior to Presbytery Meetings to discuss the activities of the Associations within our Presbytery to prepare a consolidated report.

Although I did not manage to meet with the President of our Youth, we did speak telephonically and written information was e-mailed to me for inclusion in this report.

The IYZAs posed a problem for me in that I couldn’t identify who to speak to since this organization has been affected by the aggrieved within the PWF, and several branches


are apparently still operating as JBs. The correct spokesperson needs to be identified for future contact and a meeting needs called of all those involved to find an amicable way forward.

Both PWF and Emmanuel Fellowship, and out Youth have expressed either the intention or desire for training workshops to empower and equip their office bearers, especially their Secretaries and Treasurers.

Several attempts were made to contact Rev Lulamile Obose, Convenor of the General Assembly Associations’ Committee to receive details concerning meetings in 2011 and decisions that may need to be taken into account by Presbytery but he has not yet responded to my phone calls and e-mails.

Presbyterial Women’s Fellowship (PWF)EXECUTIVE President: Mrs Grace Ngidi

Vice-President: Mrs Vuyelwa MakalimaSecretary: Mrs Maria MahoniTreasurer: Mrs Edna JosephPrayer Co-ordinator: Mrs BijaSocial Responsibility: Granny MabitselaAdditional Members: Ministers’ Widows,

ie Mesdames Lediga, Kgopong & RamoshabaExisting Ministers’ wives

The ladies from our PWF were represented at the National Convention in Ethekwini in July/August 2010, although the President, Mrs Nyauza was not in attendance due to issues pertaining to Jonas Lediga congregation. GENEX agreed to continue the process of dialogue with the “Aggrieved Group”, and this is an issue that needs to be addressed by our Associations’ Committee.

Work is being done on a national level to translate the UPWF Constitution into Afrikaans, isiXhosa, isiZulu, sePedi, Southern Sotho, and tshiVenda, as well as addressing “loopholes and gaps” identified during translation. Completion is expected by the end of 2011 for presentation to General Assembly in 2012.

The Annual Presbyterial Conference was held at St Andrews, Pretoria from 1-5 October 2010. The theme was “God’s grace is sufficient to move Christians forward because His power is made perfect in weakness” (2 Cor 12:9).

Members are encouraged to participate, inter alia, in the Women’s World Day of Prayer on Friday 4 March 2011, the theme for which is “How many loves have you?” (Mk 6:30-44).

Emmanuel FellowshipEXECUTIVE President: Ms Margaret Magwaza

Vice-President: Ms Mercy RamudikeRecords Secretary: Ms Kgomotso KgwaleGeneral Secretary: Ms Beverly MashaoTreasurer: Ms Elsie MagashaAdditional Members:Mesdames Ingrid Molopyane, Salome Skosane, Manoko Sibiya

I had the pleasure and privilege as Acting Moderator of Presbytery while Rev Patrick Nyauza was on leave of absence, to conduct the official opening of the very first Presbyterial Conference of the Emmanuel Fellowship at Altelekker Conference Centre in Irene on 15 October last year. The theme was “Pray in the Spirit at all times” (Eph 6:18). About 60 women from eight congregations participated in this event.

A copy of the recently approved Constitution was given to me as Convenor of the Church


Associations Committee, for which I thank Ms Magwaza.

Meetings and events planned for 2011 include a prayer day at St Thomas, Hammanskraal, scheduled to take place on Sun 30 January and general meetings at St Peters, Mothutlung on 27 March; Mabopane on 8 May; Mamelodi East on 31 July; and Mamelodi Gardens on 4 September. The Annual Presbyterial Conference of Emmanuel Fellowship is once for 15 & 16 October, with the venue to be announced.

A desire was expressed for feedback from Presbytery concerning possible social justice projects and needs with which Emmanuel Fellowship could provided support, either practical or financial.

Men’s Christian Guild (MCG)EXECUTIVE President: Rev Selo Mamabolo

Vice-President: Mr VW NxiwaSecretary: Mr JE MotaungAssistant Secretary: Mr A ThemaTreasurer: Mr D TleaneAdditional Member: Mr J Lediga

The first general meeting of the Tshwane MCG is scheduled to take place at St Andrews, Pretoria on 19 February from 09:00 to 11:00. Agendas will be distributed at the Presbytery Meeting on Sat 12 February.

Tshwane ChoirEXECUTIVE President: Mr Rapolai Mogoba

Vice-President: Mr KabiniSecretary: Mrs O NthiteVice-Secretary: Mr T LehariTreasurer: Mr D MadimoAdditional Member: Ms P Bokale

Combined choir practices will take place at St Andrews, Pretoria on Saturday afternoons from 14:00-16:00 in preparation for the National Choir Competition in Newcastle on 27 & 28 August 2011. There will also be a national meeting in Bloemfontein on 16 April 2011, to which our Tshwane Choir hopes to send a delegation.

A fund-raising gala dinner is planned for 4 June 2011 to raise funds for young and unemployed choir members who are unable to carry the costs of participation themselves. Members of Presbytery who work for organisations that might be willing to sponsor this event or make donations are asked to contact Mr Mogoba on the following e-mail address: [email protected].

There is great excitement about a new choir in the Rustenburg area (Ruighoek?) of about 40 members. An Executive Committee visit was scheduled for 22 January to officially welcome this new choir and offer them encouragement and support. Other participating choirs, namely Atteridgeville, Mamelodi East, Soshanguve, Hammanskraal, Mabopane and Mamelodi Gardens, will also be visited during the first half of 2011.

Presbyterial Youth FellowshipEXECUTIVE President: Lesego Lengana

Vice-President: S’thembiso MthimkhuluGeneral Secretary: Portia Mokhwesana (Has resigned)Records Secretary: Tshepo ModirwaTreasurer: Dimakatso MazibukoArts & Culture Convenor: Kozo Molkomme


mailto:[email protected]

Worship Convenor: Mathilda NyamaHIV/AIDS Desk: Nonkululeko Machika

Active youth groups within the Presbytery fellowship include: Jonas Lediga, Mabopane, Soshanguve, Thumedi Makgahlela, Mamelodi East, Garankuwa, and St Thomas.

The Executive Committee has identified the following objectives for its term of office:

1. To re-unite its members through active participation in sports, spiritual renewal, and skills development.

2. To increase the active membership and affiliation of both church groups and individuals.

3. To create and build relationships centrally, horizontally and vertically within Presbytery and elsewhere.

Three Executive Meetings and three Council Meetings were held in 2010, as well as two special meetings to discuss urgent matters. The annual Presbyterial Youth Conference was held at St Peters, Mothutlung from 5-6 June. The theme was “Pure heart” (Ps 51:10-15). The life and work of participating congregationsw were discussed. Mr Sebeko, an AIDS activist, was invited to talk to the youth about HIV/AIDS, youth and the church. He encouraged young people to initiate and participate in HIV/AIDS matters within the church. Topics discussed in small groups included:

1. Gays and lesbians in the church

2. Unemployment among the youth

3. Faith versus the church (Constitution & uniform).

The topic on faith was the most burning issue for the youth, with concerns about wasted time on disagree-ments re uniforms rather than spreading the Word of God and praying for unity. It was felt people should be comfortable in their own clothes and channel their energy into growing the church and praising God.

Two sports/fun days were held during March and May to build unity, and two leadership workshops were held in June, one at Soshanguve and the other at Mamelodi. A well-attended, vibrant revival service was held on 18-19 July at Mamelodi East. A prayer day was held on 11 September 2010. The theme was “The Gifts of the Holy Spirit” (1 Cor 12:8-11). Pastor M Shoroma encouraged the youth to strive for love and to set their hearts on spiritual gifts, especially those of proclaiming God’s message.

Our Youth were represented at the national Youth Assembly in Thukela from 3-5 July 2010, the theme of which was “Building bridges and breaking barriers”. Visits were also made to other Presbyterial youth groups throughout the year. The annual youth camp was held at Nyathi Sports School in the North West from 8-12 December, with time allocated to praise & worship, Bible study, topic discussions, and fun.

Challenges currently confronting our Youth include:Lack of support and fluctuating commitment by membersThe need for skills development workshops and forumsResource mobilization and difficulties with communication due to no access to Internet/e-mail facilitiesToo few Ministers involved in the Youth FellowshipResignation of the General Secretary from the FellowshipInactive congregations.

Thanks and acknowledgements go to:


Revs Nyama, Mpafi, Mbaru and Manaka for their guidance and selfless supportMesdames Nyama and Mamabolo for their motherly loveMr Kevin Nkitseng who supported the Youth as their Elder.

ConclusionMy thanks go to the Presidents and Secretaries of the above Associations for their willingness to set aside time to meet with me and provide information for this report at very short notice, as well as their willingness to accept me as their Convenor of Associations despite the fact that I do not belong to any Association.

Proposals

1. receives the report.

2. agrees that the Presidents or Vice-Presidents of the various Associations within our Presbytery, together with the Convenor, should constitute our Associations’ Committee.

3. encourages the above office bearers to attend the following Committee Meetings at St Andrews, Pretoria to discuss important issues and produce a consolidated report for Presbytery: from 11:30-13:30 on Saturdays 26 March, 25 June and 24 September 2011.

4. requests the relevant office bearers of IYZAs to contact the Convenor to arrange a meeting to finad an amicable way forward for all concerned.

5. recommends training workshops for office bearers of associations to be included as early as possible in the Presbytery training programme for 2011.

6. draws attention to and encourages support of the following events:

1. the Women’s World Day of Prayer on Friday 4 March

2. the MCG general meeting at St Andrews, Pretoria on Saturday 19 February from 09:00-11:00

3. the general meetings of Emmanuel Fellowship at St Peters, Mothutlung on 27 March and at Mabopane on 8 May

4. the combined choir practices at St Andrews, Pretoria on Saturday afternoons from 14:00-16:00

5. the fund-raising gala dinner organised by the Tshwane Choir Association for 4 June.

7. encourages support by way of sponsorship and/or donations for this fund-raising gala dinner

8. notes the challenges confronting our Youth and encourages prayer and pracitcal support of whatever kind possible.

10. Other Ministries

10.1 Children's Ministry Brenda Groeneveld

We have made contact with all the Sunday School teachers through letters. We have also phoned, emailed and sms'd wherever we can. Our goal has been to make teachers aware of SANSSA training on 12 Feb 2011 and to offer support and encouragement wherever possible.

Proposals:



10.2 Rocky Valley During December most of the bridge into Rocky Valley was washed away. This has been a tremendous blow for the campsite. Staff and campers can still access the campsite on foot, but supplies and luggage have to be carried across by hand.

Please pray for the staff working under very trying conditions,Please pray for a solution for the repair of the bridge as it is unlikely that insurance will pay.Please consider making a donation to Rocky Valley

Proposals:



11. Appendices

11.1.1. Assessments Received


PRESBYTERY OF TSHWANEPresbytery Assessments received to & including 31 December 2010

NB: Assessments are reflected in the calendar year in which they are received and are not allocated to the year in which they accrued.

2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010

Centurion West 5,755.54 7,920.00 7,410.00 - 11,700.82 15,000.00 Emmanuel 17,507.14 17,115.12 25,012.45 21,906.19 28,864.33 30,977.55 Garankuwa - 300.00 1,000.00 500.00 500.00 1,000.00 Grace n/a n/a n/a 1,343.83 3,133.01 3,752.78 Highveld Community - 7,651.85 - 7,500.00 7,500.00 - Jonas Lediga 2,961.68 1,700.00 1,800.00 5,175.00 1,700.00 6,950.00 Khayakhulu 1,030.00 300.00 21.15 300.00 - 1,000.00 Mabopane 600.00 1,500.00 3,429.00 4,000.00 1,500.00 3,000.00 Mamelodi (East) 400.00 1,200.00 400.00 500.00 500.00 500.00 Mamelodi Gardens 500.00 - 400.00 - 400.00 400.00 Premier Mine (Cullinan) 1,600.00 - 800.00 - - - Ruighoek - 400.00 - - 1,050.00 800.00 Rustenburg 887.77 2,400.00 1,000.00 3,000.00 2,817.66 11,000.00 Saints 11,831.61 16,366.59 17,635.34 18,948.88 13,611.01 22,172.10 Soshanguve - - 3,600.00 2,000.00 - - St Andrews, Pretoria 6,000.00 6,000.00 - 15,387.60 6,693.83 14,529.94 St Andrews, Witbank 2,269.00 5,727.00 - 22,185.28 4,523.00 10,657.95 St Columba's 7,800.00 12,544.35 16,947.76 6,600.00 14,000.00 11,884.76 St Francis 9,049.00 10,000.00 1,500.00 5,499.00 9,260.00 - St James - - - - - - St John's 13,415.00 17,312.00 15,518.00 17,758.00 22,103.00 27,542.00 St Mark's 5,563.51 4,751.48 6,156.72 8,294.30 7,337.63 5,540.30 St Paul's - - - - - - St Peter's - - 600.00 - - - St Thomas 300.00 - - 2,000.00 - Thumedi Makgahlela 400.00 400.00 400.00 400.00 400.00 400.00 Trinity 19,277.72 30,297.93 40,563.32 32,069.51 36,275.29 43,132.14

Unidentified - - 500.00 2,275.01 1,200.00

107,147.97 143,886.32 144,193.74 175,867.59 176,144.59 211,439.52

PLEASE CHECK AGAINST YOUR OWN RECORDS

Total assessments received

11.1.2. Balance Sheet


PRESBYTERY OF TSHWANEBalance Sheet as at 31 December 2010

2009 2010EquityAccumulated surplus (Opening balance) R 176,656.16 R 136,279.87 Establishment grant (ex previous Presbytery) R 81,797.00 R 81,797.00 Nett surplus / shortfall (2009) R -40,376.29 R -40,729.46

R 218,076.87 ### R 177,347.41

Long term liabilitiesBenevolent Fund R 14,986.87 R 15,282.68 Development Fund (Pedal Project) R 342,956.23 R 309,980.79 FOV Book Fund R - R 6,416.00 Stipend Fund R 344,880.00 R 287,400.00 1Ten ten eighty investment R 21,100.00 Training Fund R 11,062.60 R 11,062.60

R 713,885.70 ### R 651,242.07

TOTAL R 931,962.57 ### R 828,589.48

Current assetsCreditors' Control R 298,510.00 R 229,920.00 1Current account R 71,764.94 R 107,965.90 Deposit a/c: Benevolent Fund R 14,986.87 R 15,282.68 Deposit a/c: Call account R 103,802.47 R 209,670.96 Deposit a/c: Development Fund (Pedal Project) R 342,956.23 R 308,099.79 Loans: Khayakhulu R -1,000.00 R 4,055.13 Loans: MP Nyauza R 3,544.00 R - Motor vehicle (Khayakhulu) R 40,950.00

R 875,514.51 ### R 874,994.46 Current liabilitiesAccruals R 56,448.06 ### R -46,404.98 2

TOTAL R 931,962.57 ### R 828,589.48

1 The difference between the value of the stipend fund and the amount "owing" to the Presbytery in the Creditors' control account is R57 480 paid in by Ga-Rankuwa. The amount of R229 920 reflected in Creditors' control is the amount "invoiced" to vacant congregations in the attempt to build up a stipend fund and get congregations accustomed to making a regular monthly payment for ministry.

2 This to made up on outstanding payments due in December but only paid in January, plus an amount of R24000 received from GA for Thumedi and R10 552 provided for Mission Outreach pending a decision on how this is to be applied.

Note:

11.1.3. Income and Expenditure


PRESBYTERY OF TSHWANE

Income Statement for the period ending 31 December 2010

Income 2009 2010 2010 Budget

Congregational Assessments R 178,865.59 R 211,039.52 191,386.18 GA Grants received R 49,200.00 R 27,600.00 40,800.00 1Interest received R 9,271.22 R 5,868.49 10,000.00 Other income R 50,400.00 R 63,375.00 52,400.00 2

TOTAL INCOME R 287,736.81 ### R 307,883.01 294,586.18

Expenditure

AIDS project R - 9,569.31 Accounting fees R - Admin expenses R 61,452.53 R 63,689.81 65,754.21 Bank charges R 2,674.04 R 2,397.68 2,861.22 Benevolent fund R - Committees R 5,000.00 R 2,650.00 Communications R 1,254.00 R 1,835.40 2,131.80 Conferences R - R 3,350.00 3,500.00 Consultations/ Commissions R 12,841.90 R 22,228.50 12,400.00 3Discretionary payments R 2,524.20 R 200.00 3,000.00 General Assembly R 500.00 R 15,730.63 3,000.00 4Grants to congregations R 85,075.00 R 53,954.50 48,800.00 1Pedal Project Grants to congregations R 50,400.00 R 63,375.00 52,400.00 2Insurance (Khayakhulu vehicle) R 5,906.36 R 2,629.06 6,319.81 Mission Outreach R 8,400.00 R 10,551.98 9,569.31 Motor vehicle exp (Khayakhulu vehicle) R 7,959.37 R 2,175.11 8,516.53 Presbytery meetings R 45,345.70 R 42,794.80 47,000.00 Presbytery project R 20,000.00 R 20,000.00 20,000.00 Sundry expenses R 180.00 Surplus/shortfall Disposal Assets R 19,950.00 5Ten ten eighty investment R 18,600.00 R 21,100.00 19,138.62 Training

TOTAL EXPENDITURE R 328,113.10 ### R 348,612.47 R 313,960.81

NET SURPLUS/SHORTFALL R -40,376.29 ### R -40,729.46 R -19,374.63

Notes:1 The difference between anticipated GA grants received and what was actually received is due to the fact that

two grants were suspended during the year. This is also the reason the actual grants to congregations is

less than budget.2 The "other income" is the amount drawn down from the Development Fund to cover specific, development

stipend grants (reflected as Pedal Project Grants in the expenses). At the time the budget was draw up Pretoria Central was not anticipated.

3 Overspending on commissions was, quite simply, due to not having anticipated the high costs thatwould be incurred in this regard this year.

4 The bulk of this expense relates to the visit to our Presbytery by the Moderator of General Assembly.We had not been aware, when the budget was being drawn up, that this visit would take place.

5 This expense item does not, in fact, represent a cash outflow. It is simply the difference between the bookvalue of the car and the proceeds of the sale.

11.1.4. Letter from Sedibeng Trust2 September 2010

The Clerk

Presbytery of Tshwane

Dear Rev Mtyhobile

Financial Assistance: Sedibeng House

As you, and no doubt most of those serving with you on Presbytery, know, the Trust is responsible for the financial welfare of the Sedibeng House of Studies in Menlo Park. The House provides accommodation for students for the Ministry in the UPCSA and the EPCSA, as well as others who are pursuing various courses at the University of Pretoria, including Divinity courses. It is currently accommodating twenty students. Charges for accommodation and meals are well below those of the University of Pretoria’s residences.

Since its inception in 2004, the Trust’s expenditure has exceeded its income by some R900000. Various steps have been taken during the past two years to prevent further erosion of its capital base and these, coupled with the municipal rates relief now available to Public Benefit Organisations, should enable the Trust to break even, despite the current low interest rate environment, which is adversely affecting its income.

The challenge which the Trustees now face is to find a way to deal with a maintenance backlog of the order of R100 000 without further eroding the Trust’s capital base, thus compromising its long-term viability. We are therefore seeking other sources of funding to augment the Trust’s own resources and would appreciate any assistance which Presbytery is able to give.

Yours sincerely

Bruce Laing

Treasurer


11.1.5. Court of Presbytery Motivations and CV'sBrief CV and Motivation for Rev D van der SpuyBorn 1947. Ordained in PCSA 1973. Married with three children.

1971-1972 Probationer, St Stephens Rosettenville, Johannesburg 1972-1977 Minister, Kimberley Presbyterian Church.1978-1981 Minister, George Presbyterian Church1981-1982 Personnel Officer, Noristan Pharmaceuticals, 1982- 31/3/2002 Office of the Chaplain General, Chaplains Service, SANDF1/4/02-to date Minister, St Francis Presbyterian ChurchServed as Presbytery Clerk, Treasurer, Editor of Presbyterian Life, Planted Cornwall Congregation (Now Highveld) with Tom Carmichael.

Dennis has served the church as Clerk of Presbytery, on commissions and has been an Interim Moderator and Assessor to many congregations. He has wide experience, the requisit listening skills and a good grasp of the manual. (Theo Groeneveld)

Brief CV and Motivation for Rev MJ MohapiBorn: 06-04-1957 in the Province of Free State.

Ministerial Experience:

1. Licensed to preach March 1984 Presbytery of Durban

2. Ordination March 1985 Presbytery of Durban

Pastoral Charges:

1. St Paul-Kwa-mashu, 1984-1987

2. St Andrews – Pretoria 1987-1996

3. Ministerial exchange to USA Presbyterian Church 1990-1991

Interim Moderator to the following Congregations:

1. Soshanguve 1989 – 1990

2. Mamelodi East 1991-2005

3. Ga-Rankuwa 2004-2007

4. St Thomas 2007-2008

5. Mabopane 2010 -

Qualifications:

1. Diploma – Theology 1983 Federal Theological Seminary

2. Bachelor of Theology 1991 UNISA

3. Honours Bachelor of Theology 1996 UNISA

4. Passed three Theoretical papers toward MTH (counseling) left with limited thesis to complete. (UNISA)

5. Diploma small Business Management (Damelin)

These are two senior men in our Presbytery. They have been in the Presbytery for a very long time. They have understood the proceedings of the Presbytery and not to mention their knowledge when it comes to the issues of Discipline in our denomination. We should also remember that Percy has been a member of the court of Presbytery the past two years and the Presbytery benefited from his contribution. Rev. Mohapi, who is a compassionate, nice spoken, understands very well the matters of discipline. The


Presbytery needs people with a pastoral heart, with sound knowledge, understanding and who will be able to advise accordingly. Rev. Mohapi also serves in high passion in the SANDF, for one to be in that position one needs to be a very good leader, and I have no doubt that that’s one of the reasons he has been promoted to where he is.

Rev. Mohapi and Percy are what the Presbytery needs for its court; let us give them the chance to showcase their skills and expertise. (Zwai Mtyhobile)

Brief CV and Motivation for Rev SK MpafiRev Mpafi was “attached” to Saints congregation during his final year of studies at the University of Pretoria. He was ordained and appointed to St Peter’s congregation, Mothutlung, at the beginning of 2008 and has served there as the resident Minister for the past three years. During his time at Saints, he participated actively in community service and pastoral care, demonstrating maturity and wisdom together with an unbiased attitude to all regardless of age, colour or gender. He is also able to take a firm and considered stance when this is necessary in situations of conflict or difficulty. In the short time that he was at Saints, he came to be loved and respected by the congregation at large. His understanding of our UPCSA Manual is good and he has a solid sense of responsibility and commitment to the Church in general and our Presbytery in particular. His election would provide an opportunity for the further empowerment of an already competent young Minister. (Glynis Goyns)

Brief CV and Motivation for Rev AJ Combrink● Andries Combrink

Present: Minister at Centurion West Presbyterian Church/KerkTheological Studies: BA (Free State), BTh, BTh.Lic, MTh. (Stellenbosch)Ministry: 1 year chaplaincy, 15 years in Dutch Reformed Church, 9 years in UPCSAOther: Consultancy for ministers, welfare organisations, and churches Business consulting and change management 8 years. Gifts and specialisation:Preaching, teaching. Church Leadership development and strategic management; Church project management. Counselling. Church planting and development. Corresponding member of GA committees for Doctrine & Ethics and Worship.

Rev Combrink served most competently as Convenor of the Presbytery Court for 2009 and 2010, showing great wisdom, compassion and strength of character in the one hearing over which the Presbytery Court was called to preside during his term of office. He has considerable understanding of legal matters and procedures, as well as extensive counselling experience which makes him an exceptionally good listener with discernment to pinpoint the real crux of the matter when it comes to complex issues. He has already proved his worth as a Member of the Court of Tshwane Presbytery but matters of health prevent him from taking a fully active role. For this reason he is proposed (and has accepted) as an alternate Minister. (Glynis Goyns)

Brief CV and Motivation for Rev W BuqaI was born in 07 September 1978 in Willowvale in the Eastern Cape in former Transkei. I grew up there and I professed my faith under the leadership of the late Rev. H.N. Mabuda in 1994. My spirituality and faith in life has been influenced by conservativism and traditionalism due to the fact of growing up in rural areas of the Transkei. However, I could describe myself as the warmth person, versatile, observant, optimistic, and striving person to achieve all my endeavors in spite of challenges. My belief is Christ- centered and through Him alone everything is possible. I am currently ministering full-time in Mamelodi East Congregation and serving as the reserve chaplain in the South African Air Force. I am the presbytery convener of Sedipeng house of studies. I also got married with my wife


Bongeka Buqa in 2010.Hobbies: I love gym, kata-box, studying Academic record.

BTh

MTh

Building Up the Local Church Certificate

Trauma Counseling certificate in UNISA

MA in Family Therapy pending 2011- 2012 (UP)

Rev Buqa served at Saints, both as a “student attachment” and as a probationer before his ordination and appointment to Mamelodi East congregation. During his time at Saints, he showed spiritual maturity, an unbiased attitude to all members regardless of age, colour or gender, and came to be dearly loved and respected by the congregation at large. He has a good understanding of our UPCSA Manual and is consciencious in fulfilling his responsibilities. Although he is still a fairly young Minister, he has been chosen to serve quite widely within the denomination both regionally and denominationally. His election would also provide an opportunity for the further empowerment of an already competent young Minister. (Glynis Goyns)

Brief CV and Motivation for Mr Thanduxolo LubangaI am in possession of a B.Proc from the University of Transkei (now called Walter Sisulu University in the Eastern Cape, Umthatha)I am also in possession of:A Post Graduate Diploma in Company Law from the University of Stellenbosch.An Advanced Diploma in Labour Law from the Rand Afrikaans University.

I am further in possession of A Certificate in Competition Law obtained from the University of Witwatersrand.A Certificate in Computer Literacy obtained from Computer Sense.A Certificate in Legal Practice Management obtained from the Law Society of South Africa.A Certificate in Registration of Companies & Close Corporations from K.L.C. Training.

I was admitted as an Attorney on 22 May 1997, granted a Right of Appearance in the High Court of S.A. on 18 September 2001 and granted a Top Performance Award in the Middle Management of Competition Commission on 28 October 2005.

It is indeed a pleasure for me to nominate these two gentlemen. Both of them have a very sound legal background. Adv Shaba is still practicing as Advocate and serves as a member ARP, Thando Lubanda who works at Telkom and is the alternate member of ARP. I had a privilege of working with them as Presbytery commission. Their advice on issues and how we should approach and interpreted the manual was outstanding. They went feather by representing/defending the Presbytery at the ARP and again an outstanding performance in the interpretation of the Manual of Law and order. These two gentlemen do not only understand the Manual of Law and Order of the denomination but also understand the laws of the land.

I therefore have no doubt that these are men who will do justice should they be given a chance to be members of the Court of Presbytery. Court of Presbytery needs people who can balance and understand the law. (Zwai Mtyhobile)

Brief CV and Motivation for Mr Simon ShabaBorn 47 years ago and married to Annie, with two sons, Atlegang and Reatlegile.


BA (Unin) 1981-1983HED (Unin) 1984Bed (Unisa) 1986-1987B Proc (Unisa) 1991-1994LLB (Unisa) 1995-1996Med (Managenent and Education Law) (RAU) 1996LLM (Labour Law) (RAU) 2001-2002

Other qualifications and exams:Certificate in Labour Relations (Unisa) 1998Certificate in Labour Relations (Pret. Tech) 1998Certificate in Education Labour Relations (Butterworths) 1998Certificate in Negotiations and Mediation Skills (Singapore) 1999Certificate Programme in Human Resources Management (Unisa) 1999Certificate in Labour Law in the Public Service (CCMA) 2000Attorneys Admission Exam (Tvl: Law Society) 1998Admission as an Advocate of the High Court of South Africa – 1999Advocates Bar Exam and member of the Pretoria Bar – 2002Advanced International Advocacy Course-Keble college,Oxford(Uk)-2008

Currently:Advocate of the High Court of South Africa and member of the Pretoria Bar (Society of Advocates) specialising in Labour Law, Administrative Law, Public Service Law, Local Government Law (Labour Relations and Labour Law) as well as Law in Education.

It is indeed a pleasure for me to nominate these two gentlemen. Both of them have a very sound legal background. Adv Shaba is still practicing as Advocate and serves as a member ARP, Thando Lubanda who works at Telkom and is the alternate member of ARP. I had a privilege of working with them as Presbytery commission. Their advice on issues and how we should approach and interpreted the manual was outstanding. They went further by representing/defending the Presbytery at the ARP and again an outstanding performance in the interpretation of the Manual of Law and order. These two gentlemen do not only understand the Manual of Law and Order of the denomination but also understand the laws of the land.

I therefore have no doubt that these are men who will do justice should they be given a chance to be members of the Court of Presbytery. Court of Presbytery needs people who can balance and understand the law. (Zwai Mtyhobile)

Brief CV and Motivation for Mrs Sue HayI am an elder at Trinity Presbyterian Church, Lynnwood. I was ordained in 1998. My background is legal. I studied law, was admitted as an attorney, practiced as a conveyance for a short while and then as a legal cost consultant for 19 years. I have a passion for the Church as God’s instrument for His purposes and am privileged to be able to serve at Trinity.

Sue has a broad experience in the life and work of the church. She played an important role in the previous Court of Presbytery and her experience and wisdom should not be lost. (Theo Groeneveld)

Brief CV and Motivation for Mr Percy Radebe• Born in 1949.

• Qualifications: Matric, Teacher's CertificateFurther qualifications in Public Relations, Communications and marketing, Human


Relations, Business Administration, Adult Education, Libraries.

• Employment History:1971-1973 Taught at Michael Seageng (HoD Science and English)1974-1982 Taught at Montsiwa Secondary (HoD Science and English)1983-1984 Taught at Modiri Secondary (HoD Science and English)1985-1987 BopTV – Head of Resource Media1988-2000 NTI – Communications Office and then Public Relations Manager2001-present – Ramatu Enterprises – Director

• Church: Serving Elder and Session Clerk

These are two senior men in our Presbytery. They have been in the Presbytery for a very long time. They have understood the proceedings of the Presbytery and not to mention their knowledge when it comes to the issues of Discipline in our denomination. We should also remember that Percy has been a member of the court of Presbytery the past two years and the Presbytery benefited from his contribution. Rev. Mohapi, who is a compassionate, nice spoken, understands very well the matters of discipline. The Presbytery needs people with a pastoral heart, with sound knowledge, understanding and who will be able to advise accordingly. Rev. Mohapi also serves in high passion in the SANDF, for one to be in that position one needs to be a very good leader, and I have no doubt that that’s one of the reasons he has been promoted to where he is.

Rev. Mohapi and Percy are what the Presbytery needs for its court; let us give them the chance to showcase their skills and expertise.

Brief CV and Motivation for Mr Riaan FourieRean Fourie is an admitted advocate who specialises in the area of Labour Law. He lectured for a number of years in both Labour and Occupational Health and Safety Law at Technikon SA before returning to practice as a legal advisor. As a part-time CCMA commissioner he presided over numerous labour disputes. He has presented various papers on Labour Law and developed and presented training material for the Department of Labour. He is presently appointed as a Church Development Evangelist at Rustenburg Presbyterian Church.

In addition to his legal training Rian has a three year BTh from TUKS and now serves a congregation as a CDE. He is a warm caring person with strong pastoral gift. He offers many gifts and strengths to the Court. (Theo Groeneveld)


Documents

PRESBYTERY OF TSHWANE · PRESBYTERY OF TSHWANE ... 3.1.Past Mod: Pastoral Committee ... NOM8: (May 2010) Co-existent approach of Associations – Sello Mamabolo