Members of the clergy
The family and friends of Reverend Sam Buti
Ladies and gentleman
The glory of the church is found in its work for the weak and exploited. It is only through working for improved conditions for all those who yearn for water, food and shelter that one can truly be ordained as the selfless servant of the marginalised and downtrodden. Reverend Sam Buti, in whatever way we may want to define and describe selflessness was the epitome of such existence.
He was one of the select few who never considered their self interests as more paramount than that of the public good. He exalted that which stands to benefit the multitudes without being conceited or intoxicated by the admiration he attracts from the ordinary. He remained humble and deeply connected to the masses.
When the struggle for democracy was won it was on the basis of noble principles and values of inclusivity, justice, equality and caring. We built our nation on the envisaged goal of unity in diversity which recognises the richness inherent in our differences.
We shaped our country on the plausible notions of non-racialism, non-sexism and non-sectarianism. What we achieved, which is deemed by many nations of the world as the miracle, is attributable to the sacrifices made by many men of the cloth, including Reverend Sam Buti.
These were men and women who understood that church cannot remain silent and feign blindness in the face of injustice. These were anointed messengers of God who were willing to lay down their lives so that others can live in peace and harmony. They were forever ready to speak out against brutality, state sponsored violence and self serving apartheid ideology.
Today, we gather here to mourn and celebrate the life of one of the special stock of our people who blessed us with his wisdom, love and care. We are mourning the loss of the beautiful soul taken from us when we still hoped to share and gain more from him.
And yet we celebrate the life of a man who lived his life to the fullest.
He gave all he had so that Alex remains in the map of Gauteng and South Africa. It is this gallant soul, Reverend Sam Buti, who led the "Save Alexandra" campaign when the apartheid regime resolved to obliterate the settlement from the face of the earth. As a seasoned campaigner, he waged a tireless battle until the people of Alex triumphed in 1979.
It was through Reverend Buti’s work that many hungry children in Alexandra were provided with food. For those who were exposed to harsh elements such as rain, he organised blankets and soup dishes. It was this type of social work that endeared him to the people of Alex.
Even in the twilight of his life, we are told, he remained a bright candle for many children in schools. His love for education of an African child found expression in many school initiatives which included fund-raising and organising scholarships.
It is clear that Reverend Buti lived his life with purpose and created a lasting legacy. It is our responsibility to take a leaf from his life. It is our responsibility to safeguard and promote that he stood for. It is the only meaningful way in which we can honour his legacy.
To the bereaved family, I would like to assure you that you are not alone in this dark hour. We share your loss and feel your pain. May you find comfort in the knowledge that Reverend Buti lived his life with purpose and enriched many with his work and teachings.
May the love of God, his grace and guidance shine on you.
Dankie. Ngiyabonga
Source: Gauteng Provincial Government
Province
