Azwinndini Titus Madamalala (62), a retired member of the South African National Defence Force, was ordained as bishop of the Bethlehem African Apostolic Church this past Sunday (20 November).
Madamalala is the eldest son of the church's founder, Senior Inspector Simson Madamalala Ndhlovu, who passed away in 2009. The installation ceremony took place at the Musina Show Grounds, where various religious leaders, congregants from different churches, community stakeholders and local community members filled the hall.
The president of the Protection of Apostolic Churches, Archbishop Nthatheni Mutswari, who performed the ordination rites, told the guests that the gospel of the Lord always moved well when accountable people held leadership positions in the church. He encouraged the new bishop to fulfil his duties faithfully and without discriminating against members of his congregation.
"When congregants look at you, they should see a role model who can lead them with distinction. You are a religious authority now who should play an important role in the church oversight, church law enforcement and the administration of the church. You must lead a sensible and dignified life that will inspire the people to love the house of God," Mutswari said.
Musina Mayor Godfrey Mawela advised Madamalala to work with other churches to spread the word of God. "When you do your work, you should remember that, although churches have different names, we serve one God. Besides working with other churches, you must develop and maintain a good working relationship with government and community stakeholders as well."
Bishop Madamalala vowed to perform his duties faithfully and to the best of his ability to honour the legacy of his late father. "In 2006, before my father passed on, he called a general church meeting and introduced me as the one to take over from him one day. I am happy that his wishes have finally been fulfilled, and I will always ask God to give me wisdom to lead his people ethically," he said.