Pretoria - President Jacob Zuma has thanked the Bantu Church of Christ/Ibandla likaKrestu LaBantu for the “momentous” role it played in the attainment of freedom in South Africa.
The church celebrated its centenary in Port Elizabeth on Thursday.
“The church played a significant role in struggle for liberation and its history is interconnected with that of the country’s struggle against oppression and ideological suppression,” the Presidency said in a statement.
When the church was formed in 1914 by Bishop James Limba, it became a symbol of hope as it focused primarily on the freedom, growth, development and self-reliance of Africans and promoted pan-Africanism.
The church also became a spiritual home to many leaders of the African National Congress, and provided support and guidance during the dark years of apartheid, Zuma said.
"We congratulate Bantu Church of Christ on reaching this milestone and we wish the church further growth, strength and success.
“We also thank them for the role they continue to play in promoting social cohesion and building a prosperous, united and successful South Africa”. – SAnews.gov.za
