President Jacob Zuma has conveyed warm congratulations to the Bantu Church of Christ/Ibandla likaKrestu LaBantu which celebrates its centenary today, 2 January 2014 in Port Elizabeth.
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.
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.
"We congratulate Bantu Church of Christ on reaching this milestone and we wish the church further growth, strength and success. We thank them for the momentous role they played in the attainment of the freedom we now enjoy in our country. We also thank them for the role they continue to play in promoting social cohesion and building a prosperous, united and successful South Africa," President Zuma said.
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