ABERDEEN NEWS - Six years ago, the Advertiser told the inspiring story of Pastor Arend Kekana and his fledgling church, the United Assemblies in Christ.
At that time, the walls of the new church building in van Heerden Street were about half-built, and the plan was for the building to be completed by the end of that year.
The work has taken longer than planned, but the dream is now within reach. The building has a roof and cement floor, rooms for ladies' and men's toilets, a kitchen, a meeting room for the council, and a stage.
All the work has been done by members of the church, under the experienced leadership of Jacobus van Rensburg.
Kekana was born and raised in Aberdeen. He worked for Correctional Services in Port Elizabeth for 20 years but returned in 1993. That year he became a committed Christian and founded the United Assemblies in Christ. In April 2015, he was ordained as an apostle, and his son Jerome Kekana took over as pastor.
Many farmers have asked Kekana to speak to their employees, after noticing the positive influence his church has on workers. The church has received
sponsorship from several farming families (none of whom wanted to be named), as well as the local brickworks.
"[Kekana] is a spiritual compass to many people who don't have much," said one of the farmers, adding that the church provides stability to the community during difficult times.
Kekana is extremely grateful for the continued support, despite the difficulties the farmers are experiencing due to the drought.
There are nearly 200 members in the congregation, many of whom stay and work on local farms. However, due to high unemployment, the church receives little income from its members.
They are currently renting a room at a local school for their services. This is a financial drain, and the Kekanas are keen to complete construction soon. Cement, toilets and basins, doors, ceiling boards and paint are still needed.
Anyone who can assist can contact Arend Kekana on 082 841 8276.
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