Unifying Hearts and Spirits: A Transformative Conference Experience in the Diocese of Zululand.
The Guild of the Servants of the Sanctuary of the Diocese of Zululand hosted their yearly conference. This conference started from the 27th to the 29th of September 2024 and was held in Vryheid Archdeaconry (eNkande). This year marked a significant milestone for the Diocese of Zululand. Since that inaugural event, the Diocese has witnessed tremendous growth, with hundreds of altar servers now attending this vital gathering. The Diocese of Zululand embraces the inspiring slogan from Zephaniah 3: To serve Him in one accord, calling for unity and collaboration among servers in their commitment to God. This verse emphasizes the importance of collective worship and service, highlighting that when individuals unite with a shared purpose, they can achieve greater things for the Kingdom of God.
The primary purpose of this gathering was to deepen the altar servers’ understanding of the Anglican liturgy and align them with God’s purpose, to be more informed about the church, how to behave in a Godly manner, Servers agreed to commit their lives to Jesus Christ and living by his word. Servers gained new insights into their roles as altar servers. They learned about the values of self-control and discipline, which are crucial for fulfilling their responsibilities effectively. Themes such as punctuality, proper robing, and the importance of prayer emerged, alongside gratitude towards God for the opportunity to serve. The conference also fostered community and ignited creativity, where new hymns were composed by Revd. Innocent Nkosinathi Mbatha and Revd. Humphrey Sthembiso Mbatha, enhancing the worship experience. Hymn 1: “Hlobani zithunywa” (to the tune: 332, metre 6686) and 2. Bakheth’ ukuzinikela (to the tune: Let all mortal flesh,etre 878788)
The impact of this conference will extend far beyond the church walls, as teachings will be shared through the Diocesan servers and into their communities, aiming to win souls for Christ and keep existing Christians fervent in their faith. Zama expressed that the main reason we enjoyed this event was the sense of unity-we are one, and the music uplifted our spirits. We learned about the responsibilities we hold as servers in the church and the importance of being available to God. This powerful reminder from the Bishop of the Diocese, RT. Revd. Dr. V. V. Mnculwane, encapsulated the conference’s message: “You are the most important element in our church. Continue to love and dedicate yourself to God.” This encourages all altar servers to embrace their roles with renewed commitment and passion.
Witnessing today’s youth come together to praise God was breathtaking. The service was vibrant, filled with enthusiasm and devotion. Young people experienced an unexpected yet profound moment of salvation. God’s presence was palpable, making it feel possible for anyone to accept Jesus as their Lord and Savior. The conference was a testament to the power of faith and community. What struck us the most was the genuine passion of the young people. In today’s world, it’s rare to see youth openly praising God with such conviction. Our Anglican Diocese of Zululand Altar Servers Guild was a shining example of the next generation’s commitment to faith.
Article by Dimpho Khanye and Yandiswa Ntuli
