Multitudes of faithful members of the New African Apostolic Church, under the leadership of Bishop Tendani Nangammbi Tshifularo Gogome, gathered at the church's headquarters at Malavuwe the past weekend for their annual general conference. The conference was attended by members from the church's branches in Limpopo, Mpumalanga and Gauteng.
Among the esteemed guests who attended were the local traditional leader Vhamusanda Vho-Mafenya Mphaphuli, a delegate of Hatshikonelo Musanda Vho-Madadzhe, Archbishop Phillemon Mureri, Bishop Bless Netshirioni, Bishop Lukas Nemulalate, Superintendent Aron Thidiela and Minister Elisa Thidiela.
Bishop Gogome said the conference was one of the most important events on the church's calendar. "We have three conferences per year, namely the Women's Conference in March, the Youth Conference in June and the General Conference from 8-9 October," she said.
The theme for this year's conference was "Hold on to Faith and No More Turning Back". The proceedings kicked off with the women's service, followed by the youth's service and a night vigil. "The highlight was on Sunday when the church's tshikona dancers ushered Vhamusanda Mafenya into the church. We will keep on following the church's constitution and scriptures by observing these special days."
Bishop Gogome added that the church was alarmed by the upsurge in gender-based-violence incidents and that they would intensify their prayers, engaging adults in the church, and reduce substance abuse by taking the youth off the streets.
Also speaking at the event, Vhamusanda Vho-Mphaphuli said he was impressed and humbled by the contribution the church was making in his community. "As leaders of this community, we cannot turn a blind eye to the contributions this church is making towards making our area a peaceful one. Continue doing good," he said.