On behalf of the African Christian Democratic Party and Hope of Glory Tabernacle, I wish to convey our heartfelt condolences to the family, particularly the children and grandchildren, of the late Founder of the KwaSizabantu Mission, the Reverend Erlo Stegen, who passed away on Tuesday morning at the age of 88.
Rev. Stegen was a man I highly respected for many years. His love for people was unquestionable. The way he interacted with the Zulu people with whom he worked, was an example for us all.
His passing leaves a great void. We have lost a ‘giant’ and an Apostle in the Faith. He did so much good, and it’s sad that many seem to overlook the good, rather focusing on mistakes and unproved allegations.
When I first felt a call to start the ACDP, I sought counsel because politics was something I hated and did not want to be involved in. Rev. Stegen was one of those I looked to and I travelled from Johannesburg to Stanger to meet with him. Rather than repeat what others had said to me up until then, such as “don’t be involved in politics” and “politics is a dangerous game”, he just said, “Obey God and I will pray for you.”
There is no better advice or Godly counsel than for a person to be encouraged to obey God. Rev. Stegen was a man who understood what it meant to obey God and that is why I had such high regard for him.
When you go to KwaSizabantu and see what that mission has achieved, you realise just how much more the Church could do to make a difference. You will see that it is possible for individuals to become self-reliant by using the hands God gave them to grow and produce life-sustaining food. What a legacy this man of God has left behind.
I pray that his children will know the comfort and healing of the Holy Spirit in this time of loss. Remain strong, united by love, and determined to continue the vision and good work that your father started. Whatever challenges lie ahead, I believe the Lord will make a way for you if you stand together and seek to obey Him.
My family and I, our church, and the ACDP, will continue to pray for you as you keep up the good work and KwaSizabantu legacy your father began in 1952.
-ENDS-
