Africa-Press – Botswana. The Dutch Reformed Church, Kgalagadi Congregation on Saturday celebrated the historic ordaining of Pastor Matshidiso Ntwaagae, the first Motswana to hold the position in Kgalagadi area.
Pastor Ntwaagae succeeds outgoing Pastor Theunis Dutoit who hails from Welkom, South Africa and has led the church for the past 12 years.
Speaking during the ordination and induction ceremony in Tsabong, Kgalagadi South MP Samuel Brooks appreciated that for the first time, a Motswana would lead DRCB in the area, thus congregants must rejoice.
He welcomed the new pastor, stating that his role was to revive spiritual life and guide legislators to better the lives of people by leading with distinction.
Also welcoming the new Pastor, was Kgosi David Toto of Tsabong, who appreciated the Dutch Reformed Church for working well with the community since its establishment in the village by among others, assisting the less privileged community members.
Pastor Ntwaagae’s mother, Ms Hilder Ntwaagae said growing up, Pastor Ntwaagage was loving and compassionate.
She said her son had been a God fearing child who always participated in church activities and was sometimes called ‘moruti’ by his peers.
He formed a scripture union in Gabane, something that made his father take notice, groom him in that line and paid for him to study Theology in Zambia.
DRC, Zambia representative, Pastor Thomas Khosa said Pastor Ntwaagae was his protégé while in Zambia, during which time he advised him to be a vessel of honor and allow God to use him mightily. He said Pastors must understand that God was the head of the church and Pastors must always seek advice where need be.
Pastors must submit to those with higher understanding and admit when having challenges, Pastor Khosa advised, noting that Pastors were human and must have role models, to encourage them when faced with challenges.
He said DRC pastors were in ministry full time and therefore, Kgalagadi congregation must know that Pastor Ntwaagae was their shepherd and must uplift them spiritually.
Pastor Khosa also reminded them to take care of him and support him, to be able to deliver effectively.
For his part, DRC NG Kerk Hartswater church in South Africa, Elder Danie Grové welcomed the new pastor to his role and encouraged him to continue nurturing the long standing relationship of the churches.
For more than 22 years, they worked together, to build the church in Tsabong.
“People can feel safe and grow in faith. The church became a place for the people of Tsabong to worship,” he said and declared the love of God to guide Pastor Ntwaagae in his calling.
NG Kerk Hartswater Church in South Africa he said would continue to support Tsabong.
With tears of joy rolling down his cheeks, Pastor Ntwaagae appreciated God for giving him the opportunity to lead Tsabong congregation.
“Today is an emotional day, he has chosen me in the midst of other great servants,” said Pastor Ntwaagae.
He appreciated Kgalagadi church for showering him and his family with love and prayed for the Lord to strengthen him to lead well adding, he needed the congregation to work with him collectively to move the church forward.
Pastor Ntwaagae was ordained and inducted by DRCB moderator Pastor Moses Nkolonyane, DRCB consulate Pastor Copper Sekate and executive committees members from Gaborone, Lobatse, Sikwane Mochudi and Mmokolodi circuits.
In attendance were congregants from other churches as United Congregation of Southern Africa.
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