The Diocesan Youth Guild (DYG) also had their banner up as they remembered one of their own who had fallen in May. In memory of Banele Mxeba, who was brutally murdered, the DYG had a candle light ceremony at the St Andrew’s Anglican Church Mdantsane during their youth service on the 16th of June.
Diocesan clergy graced the service led by Rev Bubele Mfenyana- Vicar General, Diocese of Grahamstown (Celebrant and Preacher, Archdeacon Chuma Mduzana – Chaplain of DYG, Archdeacon Mzameli Mndi – Rector of St Andrews, Mdantsane, Archdeacon Lawrence Nzwana – Chaplain of Ibutho Labavuseleli, also oversee of all diocesan chaplains, Rev Sipho Jamela – Chaplain of Bernard Mizeki Men’s Guild, Rev Siya Gowa – Assistant Priest of St Andrews, Mdantsane and Synexis, Rev Yoli Ntame – Assistant Priest of St Andrews Mdantsane, Rev Monde Makandula – Former Assistant Priest of St Andrews Mdantsane.
Bernard Mizeki Chaplain, Reverend Sipo Jamela led the emotional service as the Diocesan DYG president, Sonwabile Mdubi, known as Soso took off Banele’s name from their books. The candle was handed over to St Gregory youth Chairperson, Sibongile Nopece who couldn’t hold back her tears.
This was just after Vicar General, Reverend Bubele Mfenyana had deliverd a very encouraging sermon themed: Be born again (John3:3). He challenged the youth to come forth with youthful programs, takong lead in building their guild and building themselves in Christ.
The DYG members were then called by their Chaplain to renew their vows. Though some parished, and some had fallen, our prayers are for the youth in the church to Rise and take their position in the house of Lord, through service and in worship.
Another phase of the service was led by Lihleli Vellem, a member of the DYG from St Francis Anglican Church. He called on all Diocesan guilds to share words of wisdom and encouragement to the DYG, planting seeds through giving, in a form of umkhumezelo.
Benediction and blessing was done by the Diocesan Vica General.
Akhona Nolutshungu
(Diocese of Grahamstown)
