sorrow and joy shared
In this reflection, our former bishop, Pastor Jerry Mansholt invites us into a deeply personal remembrance shaped by history, faith, and relationship. Writing out of his experience on a 2018 journey to South Africa, Pastor Jerry reflects on the enduring legacy of apartheid, the resilience and hope of the South African people, and the powerful witness of faith forged amid suffering. His words hold space for sorrow and gratitude alike—honoring friendships formed, leaders lost, and stories of courage that continue to shape the church’s understanding of justice, reconciliation, and shared humanity.
“I remember being so deeply moved by the experience of being in South Africa on that 2018 trip. As a young pastor in my first call in Oklahoma I had read a lot about the sin of apartheid in South Africa though my connection was mainly to people I knew serving in Namibia. Fast forward 45 years and here I was celebrating my 70th birthday in Johannesburg!
While apartheid had ended, we learned how deep racism is embedded in South African life. Whites own the land and control the resources. In the midst of their ongoing struggle the South African people exuded hope and vitality and love. There was so much warmth in the midst of great poverty and lack of power and lack of access to education and health care. While we couldn’t solve their massive social problems, nor they ours (back then as well as today), we were inspired by each other’s witness to the faith. Love was felt, encouragement expressed, sorrow and joy shared.
Anita and I were deeply saddened at the death of Bishop Ubane from Covid back in the days of epidemic. We loved his warmth, laughter, gregarious personality, deep spirituality and fervency of prayer.
We learned so much about tribal culture on the trip, and also heard many, many positive (!) stories of missionaries who were loved and through their sacrifices made a huge impact on the lives of people.
And, meeting Johannes Pilane, who had suffered with Nelson Mandela. I remember Johannes as a man of strong convictions, warm and welcoming, whose own character had been shaped through suffering. He had a good cheerful heart, and, of course, had stories and recollections of time spent on Robbens Island.”
