South Africa: South African Council of Churches gets new president

Cape Town, South Africa (PANA) – The Methodist Church of Southern Africa on Thursday confirmed that Bishop Ziphozihle Siwa, Presiding Bishop of the Methodist Church of Southern Africa (MCSA), has been elected the new President of the South African Council of Churches (SACC).

PANA reports that the election followed the Church's Triennial Conference which ended in Johannesburg on Wednesday at which former anti-apartheid activist, Dr. Frank Chikane, was elected Senior Vice President and Father Michael Lapsley Vice President.

A new National Executive Committee (NEC) was also elected.

"It is a great honour to be given this opportunity to serve the church and nation at this level. I am fully aware of the challenges that the ecumenical movement faces at this time but the church is called upon to remain faithful to her calling of being a sign of God's presence in the world; offering pastoral care and prophetic witness," said Siwa in a statement.

The Archbishop of Cape Town, Reverend Dr. Thabo Makgoba saluted the appointment, saying “Having worked with Presiding Bishop Siwa over the last couple of years in ecumenical affairs, I have no doubt that he will serve the Council well and with distinction.

"My dream is that he will also make faith and order matters central in his tenure and ensure that these shape the council's mission."
-0- PANA CU/VAO 27Feb2014