The Church of God in Cape Town, Republic of South Africa

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The Church of God in Cape Town,
Republic of South Africa
The Church of God in Cape Town, Republic of South Africa
The Church of God in Cape Town, Republic of South Africa
CategoryChurch
PurposeWorship, Preaching the Gospel, Community Service
LocationCity of Cape Town, Western Cape, Republic of South Africa
Belong toWorld Mission Society Church of God
WebsiteChurch of God Official Website

The Church of God in Cape Town, Republic of South Africa, is located in the city of Cape Town, within the Western Cape Province. Established in September 2004, it is officially named the World Mission Society Church of God in Cape Town, Republic of South Africa.

Overview

  • Establishment: September 1, 2004
  • Location: City of Cape Town, Western Cape, Republic of South Africa
  • Major work: Environmental protection, supporters for both domestic and international events, helping neighbors, blood drives, etc.

Features

The members of the Church of God in Cape Town, South Africa, study the Bible.
The members of the Church of God in Cape Town, South Africa, study the Bible.

Located at the southernmost tip of Africa, South Africa is a leading nation on the continent, thanks to its abundant mineral resources and well-developed ports. The country uniquely has three capitals, each serving a distinct purpose: Pretoria as the administrative capital, Cape Town as the legislative capital, and Bloemfontein as the judicial capital. Among these, Cape Town stands out as a vibrant hub of activity, renowned for its natural beauty and sports attractions. The city features Cape Town International Airport, the iconic Table Mountain, the Cape Peninsula—home to the Cape of Good Hope—and Cape Town Stadium, which served as a venue for the FIFA World Cup.

In 2004, the Church of God established its first church in Africa in Cape Town, South Africa. A multicultural nation, South Africa is home to a rich tapestry of ethnic groups and communities, reflected in its 11 official languages. The members of the Church of God in Cape Town transcend language and cultural differences, fostering mutual understanding and unity through God’s teachings and the “Teachings of Mother.” They engage in steady communication with local Korean missionaries and Korean members who visit for long- or short-term missions. Additionally, they gather with young adults from various South African nations to study the Bible together, strengthening their passion for the gospel mission.[1][2]

Some members participate in the “Overseas Visiting Group” program, which allows them to visit the Republic of Korea, where they experience Mother’s love and obtain a deeper understanding of God’s heart. A college student who visited Korea in 2009 expressed, “I will demonstrate Mother's great love through my dedicated efforts in sharing the gospel,”[3] pledging to share God’s love and truth with many people.

With the members’ fervent passion for the gospel, the Church of God in Cape Town has continuously grown, leading to multiple relocations to larger sanctuaries. Not content to rest on their laurels, the members have actively spread the gospel throughout various parts of the country, including Johannesburg. Additionally, members from countries such as Zimbabwe, Angola, and Botswana have returned to their homelands and shared the Bible’s teachings with their families and neighbors, significantly contributing to the establishment of the Church of God across Africa.[4] Currently, the members of Cape Town Church are actively engaged in long- and short-term missionary work throughout Africa, diligently spreading the message of the new covenant.[5]

The young adult members utilize their extensive knowledge and experiences to address social issues and improve their communities. Students from the University of Cape Town, who are also members of the church, attended the Global ASEZ Summit 2019 held at the New Jerusalem Pangyo Temple, Korea, where they explored solutions for creating a peaceful and safe society alongside various leaders and university students from around the world.[6]

The news of volunteer activities of the members in Cape Town are shared through the church’s monthly magazine, Elohist, and the Church of God in South Africa website, extending their positive influence to other countries.

Environmental Protection

The 3,130th Worldwide Environmental Cleanup in Bunga Avenue, Cape Town
The 3,130th Worldwide Environmental Cleanup in Bunga Avenue, Cape Town

Currently, Cape Town is facing a severe water shortage due to environmental pollution and other factors. In response, the members of the Church of God in Cape Town actively engage in diverse environmental protection activities to preserve their living environment.[7][8][9][10][11][12] They collect trash and conduct environmental campaigns in heavily trafficked areas, such as around the church, nearby stations, streets, and parks, raising public awareness about environmental issues among citizens.[13] In November 2021, ASEZ WAO, the Church of God Young Adult Worker Volunteer Group, removed invasive vines that hindered tree growth in the Constantia area. Additionally, in July 2016, ASEZ, the Church of God University Student Volunteer Group from Korea cleaned up the Lagoon Beach area during their visit to Cape Town.[14] They also collaborate with local authorities to address environmental issues while fostering a positive atmosphere that contributes to crime prevention. In February 2019, the Church of God in Bellville, Cape Town, in collaboration with ASEZ members, revitalized the city’s appearance by repainting worn playground equipment and benches.[15]

ASEZ members also regularly conduct cleanups at the University of Cape Town (UCT),[16][17] the oldest university in South Africa, as well as at the Cape Peninsula University of Technology (CPUT), the only engineering university in the Western Cape province.[18][19] After signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Passenger Rail Agency of South Africa, ASEZ WAO revitalized Kenilworth railway station, Athlone station, and Crawford station by cleaning walls that had become marred with graffiti and dust, transforming them with bright and hopeful murals.[20][21][22][23][24] In January 2020, they launched a campaign to raise awareness about the seriousness of plastic waste, enhancing public consciousness regarding environmental issues.[25] In August of that year, they met with a city councilor from Cape Town to discuss future directions for their activities.[26]

Support for Local Communities

A university affiliated with the church undertakes restoration work at the library of the University of Cape Town, which was affected by wildfires.
A university affiliated with the church undertakes restoration work at the library of the University of Cape Town, which was affected by wildfires.

In April 2021, a fire erupted on Table Mountain, one of the New Seven Wonders of Nature. The flames spread rapidly with the wind, causing significant damage to the nearby University of Cape Town and cultural heritage sites.[27] On the 29th, after the firefighting efforts were completed, ASEZ members and church members participated in the restoration of the library at the request of the University of Cape Town.[28] This library houses a vast collection of materials, including research papers on the African continent, audiovisual resources, publications from across the continent, and rare items published in the 19th century, making the search for and relocation of these materials urgent. The members formed a long line to move all the materials from the underground storage of the library to the ground level. Nancy Child, Senior Conservator of Iziko South African Museum, expressed her gratitude, saying, “Thank you so much. Your energetic and cheerful presence inspired us as well.”[29]

The vibrant energy of the church members in Cape Town shines through in their volunteer activities. Renowned for its stunning natural scenery, Cape Town hosts events such as the Sanlam Cape Town Marathon and the Cape Town Cycle Tour each year, attracting participants from around the world. The church members contribute to the successful hosting of international sporting events by volunteering and cheering for participants.[30][31][32][33][34][35][36][37] Hilton Kearns, an official of the Cape Peninsula Marathon, expressed his gratitude to the members who had faithfully volunteered as supporters over the years, stating, “Many people have praised the event we accomplished together.” One participant shared, “Your support gave me strength and motivated me to keep going,” reflecting their appreciation.[38]

Neighborly Love

The 635th Worldwide Blood Drive to Give Life Through the Love of the Passover
The 635th Worldwide Blood Drive to Give Life Through the Love of the Passover

The Church of God in Cape Town actively reaches out to those in need, ensuring that no neighbor is left behind. They visit children’s hospitals and nursing homes, engaging in singing, dancing, and recreational activities, thereby creating joyful moments together.[39][40][41] The members also maintain their blood drive,[42][43][44][45][46] consistently donating blood and encouraging citizen participation through blood donation campaigns. Officials, including the Minister of Health and representatives from the Cape Town Blood Bank, visit the events to support and commend the members for fostering a culture of blood donation.

Following the outbreak of COVID-19, ASEZ WAO launched the “Heart to Heart” project to support the medical staff and officials tirelessly working on the front lines of the pandemic. Members visited Groote Schuur Hospital and Mediclinic Constantiaberg Hospital, providing snacks and handwritten letters to the exhausted healthcare workers, uplifting their spirits and expressing gratitude for their dedication.[47][48][49] The members delivered essential goods and food supplies to families affected by the pandemic, conveying the message, “We are all one family.”[50]

Major Awards

The Certificate of Appreciation from the CEO of WP Blood Transfusion Service in Cape Town
The Certificate of Appreciation from the CEO of WP Blood Transfusion Service in Cape Town

The Church of God in Cape Town has received many awards from various organizations in recognition of its commitment to promoting national development and the well-being of its neighbors. It was honored by the CEO of WP Blood Transfusion Service for its significant contributions to the blood supply.[51] Additionally, Metrorail Western Cape acknowledged the church members’ efforts in station cleanup by presenting them with a certificate of appreciation.[52]

External links

  • World Mission Society Church of God South Africa
  • "The Church of God in Cape Town, Republic of South Africa". WATV News.

See also

Related videos

  • Marathon & Cycle Supporters

References

  1. ↑ Story of a Youth Camp in Southern Africa, Elohist, September 2019
  2. ↑ How Young Adults in Africa Take Advantage of the Young Adult Camp, Church of God Media
  3. ↑ 2009 Overseas University Student Visiting Group, WATV News, August 9, 2009
  4. ↑ A Journey of Endurance, Stepped with a Mother's Love, WATV News, March 11, 2011
  5. ↑ With the Spirit of Khalas, WATV.org
  6. ↑ ASEZ Global Summit 2019: A Quantum Leap for Change towards Zero Crime, ASEZ.org, July 15, 2019
  7. ↑ Worldwide Cleanup Campaign Upper Valley Road Cleanup, World Mission Society Church of God South Africa, February 2, 2020
  8. ↑ Cleanup at Keizersgracht St., Tennant St., Constitution St., Harrington St., Caledon St., and Canterbury St. in Cape Town, World Mission Society Church of God South Africa, December 3, 2017
  9. ↑ Cleanup at Bhunga Ave. in Cape Town, World Mission Society Church of God South Africa, June 5, 2016
  10. ↑ Cleanup at Lansdowne in Cape Town, World Mission Society Church of God South Africa, May 1, 2016
  11. ↑ Cleanup at Steurhof Station in Cape Town, World Mission Society Church of God South Africa, February 26, 2012
  12. ↑ Environmental Guardians Awakening Local Community Interest, WATV News, December 23, 2012
  13. ↑ Station gets a clean-up, News24, April 2, 2019
  14. ↑ Cleanup at Lagoon Beach in Cape Town, World Mission Society Church of God South Africa, July 31, 2016
  15. ↑ Volunteers revamp Garlandale park, Athlone News, March 6, 2019
  16. ↑ Cleanup at University of Cape Town(UCT) by ASEZ, World Mission Society Church of God South Africa, March 28, 2019
  17. ↑ ASEZ, Church of God University Student Volunteer Group, Green Campus Cleanup Activity, WATV News, January 5, 2017
  18. ↑ UCT clean-up, Southern Suburbs Tatler, April 11, 2019
  19. ↑ World Mission Society Volunteer students clean Zonnebloem, University of the Western Cape, June 14, 2019
  20. ↑ Mural spreads the word, News24, November 12, 2019
  21. ↑ Graffiti Removal by ASEZ WAO, World Mission Society Church of God South Africa, November 3, 2019
  22. ↑ Subway gets a colourful facelift, Athlone News, September 18, 2019
  23. ↑ Graffiti Removal by ASEZ WAO, World Mission Society Church of God South Africa, September 8, 2019
  24. ↑ A vibrant group doing good deeds, News24, August 20, 2019
  25. ↑ Group educates public on plastic pollution, Atlantic Sun, January 23, 2020
  26. ↑ City Councilor in Cape Town, Republic of South Africa, ASEZ WAO Official Website, August 10, 2020
  27. ↑ Man detained as 'out of control' Cape Town fires continue to rage, CNN, April 19, 2021
  28. ↑ Church volunteers lend a helping hand at damaged UCT Jagger Library, IOL, May 6, 2021
  29. ↑ ASEZ Carried Out Recovery Efforts for Wildfire in the Rep. of South Africa, ASEZ.org, April 29, 2021
  30. ↑ Supporting Cape Town Cycle Tour, World Mission Society Church of God South Africa, March 10, 2019
  31. ↑ Supporting Cape Peninsula Marathon, World Mission Society Church of God South Africa, February 17, 2019
  32. ↑ Supporting Cape Town Cycle Tour, World Mission Society Church of God South Africa, March 11, 2018
  33. ↑ Marathon volunteers, Southern Suburbs Tatler, March 1, 2018
  34. ↑ Supporting Cape Peninsula Marathon, World Mission Society Church of God South Africa, February 18, 2018
  35. ↑ Volunteers help cyclists believe they can, IOL, February 23, 2017
  36. ↑ Supporting Cape Peninsula Marathon, World Mission Society Church of God South Africa, February 19, 2017
  37. ↑ Supporting Cape Town Cycle Tour, World Mission Society Church of God South Africa, March 6, 2016
  38. ↑ Marathon & Cycle Supporters, WATV MEDIA CAST, July 15, 2020
  39. ↑ Cultural event and cleaning at a nursing home in Cape Town, World Mission Society Church of God South Africa, April 28, 2013
  40. ↑ Cultural event a nursing home in Cape Town, World Mission Society Church of God South Africa, January 15, 2012
  41. ↑ Cultural event and cleaning at a children’s hospital in Cape Town, World Mission Society Church of God South Africa, January 8, 2012
  42. ↑ Church hosts blood drive, Southern Suburbs Tatler, May 17, 2018
  43. ↑ Blood drive in Cape Town, World Mission Society Church of God South Africa, April 16, 2018
  44. ↑ Blood drive in Cape Town, World Mission Society Church of God South Africa, April 14, 2016
  45. ↑ Blood drive in Cape Town, World Mission Society Church of God South Africa, May 22, 2014
  46. ↑ Blood drive in Cape Town, World Mission Society Church of God South Africa, March 11, 2012
  47. ↑ Volunteers say ’heartfelt thanks’ to hospital staff, Southern Suburbs Tatler, August 5, 2021
  48. ↑ Volunteer group shows appreciation to Groote Schuur Hospital healthcare workers, IOL, July 30, 2021
  49. ↑ Caring for the carers, Constantiaberg Bulletin, July 8, 2021
  50. ↑ Relay of Donation and Volunteerism for Overcoming COVID-19, WATV News, July 8, 2020
  51. ↑ Certificate of Achievement from CEO of Western Province Blood Transfusion Service, WATV Awards, April 20, 2016
  52. ↑ Certificate of Appreciation from Metrorail, WATV Awards, August 13, 2019
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