UCCSA now 21 years old
Unathi Shologu
THE United Congregational Church of Southern Africa (UCCSA) celebrates its coming of age as it turns 21 this year.
The church is a merger of three wards of Congregational Churches in Bloemendal.
Deacon and convener of the communications unit of UCC Chatty, Roslyn Baatjies, explains that "the decision [to merge] was made more than 21 years ago that – instead of applying for more land to build three churches – one church would be formed".
On March 23 the church hosted a sports day which was well attended, with very spirited participants. Describing the festivities, Baatjies says, "We were clothed in T-shirts with different colours and each of the seven areas (A to G) had a banner with a [Bible] scripture on it.
"The march was accompanied by drum majorettes from the church and our Boys Brigade bands. At Bertram Secondary School we had soccer, rugby and netball being played as well as a jumping castle for the kids.
"We also had a motor show and modelling later in the afternoon as well as dance group performances."
The church is a beacon of hope in the community and has over the years made countless contributions – physically and financially – to the community.
Last year the student minister facilitated and initiated a project where the church sponsored school uniforms to impoverished school pupils in the area.
As the church makes its transition into many more decades, the next event to look out for is a dinner dance on June 29 at the Chatty Community Centre.