The Methodist Church of Raithby, part of the Stellenbosch Circuit 127 under the leadership of Reverend Loyiso Molosi, recently celebrated its annual thanksgiving service, marking 180 years of faithful ministry in the community.
As part of the tradition, the congregation’s senior citizens played a central role in the service. Members aged 80 and above were honoured with special tokens of appreciation in recognition of their lifelong contribution to the church and community.
Guests at the celebration included Jeremy Fasser, executive mayor of Stellenbosch, Patricia Crawley and guest preacher Marriette van Graan.
Van Graan encouraged the seniors to be like strong trees that remain standing strong because they are rooted in God.
In his address, Fasser commended the Raithby community for its invaluable impact locally and within the broader Stellenbosch region.
He further highlighted the importance of learning from the stories, wisdom and lived experiences of the senior members.
Said to Deon Hendricks and the leadership of the church: “Celebrating our heritage and those who laboured in ministry and in the community needs to be honoured.
“We, as the current leadership, are standing on the shoulders of these seniors. They are our role-models, and we continue to learn from them from time to time.”
The service was well attended and concluded with a joyful lunch shared with all the seniors present.
This milestone reflected not only the longevity of the Raithby Methodist church, but also its continuing commitment to service, faith and community life.
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