The crucifixion and resurrection of Jesus Christ is a central event in the Christian calendar. It is a solemn period observed by those who belong to the Christian faith to reflect on the suffering and death of Christ.
In celebration of this global event, the Depart-ment of Correctional Services (DCS), Directorate: Spiritual Care in partnership with Bible League, Bible Society, World Women Day of Prayer SA, World Hope Ministries, World Bible School, Bill Winston Ministries Africa, Assupol and Sanlam, organised the Head Office Easter and Holy Communion Service at Kgoši Mampuru II Management Area, Gauteng, on 19 March 2024.
Praise and worship were the order of the day as the DCS Head Office Choir, South African Air Force Choir, gospel artist Ntokozo Mtambo from the Nkabinde Brothers, gospel musician and Spirit of Praise lead singer Avis Ndlovu, young energetic gospel artist Dumi Maloyi and sensational keyboardist Sandile Shabangu mesmerised congregants with songs and hymns.
The four-hour interdenominational service, which was anchored by Reverend Dr Menzi Mkhathini, was also graced by colleagues from other law enforcement departments such as the South African Police Service (SAPS), South African National Defence Force (SANDF) as well as Social Development and Higher Education.
Outlining the significance of this religious gathering, organised under the theme: “DCS striving towards a Spiritually and Morally developed workforce,” Deputy Commissioner: Health Care Services, Mirriam Mabe, representing Chief Deputy Commissioner (CDC): Incarceration and Corrections (InCo), Anna Molepo, said: “Human development is very essential. Spirituality is a core component of human development. A human being is made up of spirit, body and soul. We are here to receive soul food, just as the body needs nutrients. We are also here because spirituality also promotes unity.”
Brigadier General Thabo Masweu, Chaplain General of the SANDF, delivered a powerful sermon which left congregants spiritually edified and revived. As part of commemorating the death of Christ, Reverend Thandolwethu Mpambani led the communion service which congregants partook in in remembrance of Jesus Christ.
DCS official, Tlatla Ramaphakela praised the Department for this great initiative. “It is really good to see the Department bringing staff members together under one roof to celebrate the sacrifice of Jesus who died for the sins of the world. Colleagues who will be on duty during Easter holidays and those who will not make it to church will at least not feel left out as DCS has closed that gap through this service ahead of the Easter weekend,” said Ramaphakela.
Another colleague, Khakhu Magadidzha added that this event was impactful. “I was able to praise God at my workplace which is very good for me spiritually and I feel revived. I would like to encourage fellow colleagues to attend such special services in numbers for spiritual upliftment,” said Magadidzha.
The world will observe 2024 Good Friday on 29 March and Family Day on 01 April.
