Archbishop Thabo Makgoba
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Official support statement; "I am glad to give my wholehearted support to this important initiative. Across the continent of Africa over the years, so many of us have been the recipients of all manner of aid and support through many differing circumstances of need. Now it is Africa's turn to stand in solidarity with the country and people of Haiti, and offer whatever assistance lies within our ability, in the aftermath of the devastating earthquakes. In South Africa earlier this week, Church leaders from across the Christian spectrum joined in calling for a generous response to this suffering which we can only begin to imagine, and we welcomed the commitments that our own Government is making, alongside the growing help from individuals and organisations. Yet we can and must do far, far, more. Now is the time for all Africans to join in helping these brothers and sisters of ours within the human family. We urge our political leaders not to be slow in joining the tide of compassion in response to this disaster. We too can show love and care, not only in words, but in providing financial and practical help, in sharing resources and expertise, especially in the challenging times of reconstruction that lie ahead. Therefore we look to the African Union Summit to express what it means truly to be 'Africans for Haiti'. One of the great riches of Africa is the spirit of ubuntu - the spirit that says 'a person is a person through other persons'. Now is the time to demonstrate our humanity through selfless generosity and tangible action. It is therefore my prayer that the Summit will have the courage and conviction to make specific and significant commitments, which are then swiftly and effectively implemented. And in this way, may God in his mercy use us as a channel of blessing and love to those who stand in such great need at this time. Amen." Biography; A church active in the southern part of Africa, including dioceses in Angola, Lesotho, Mozambique, Namibia, Saint Helena, South Africa and Swaziland. The church has an Anglo-Catholic ethos and is regarded as the most liberal Anglican province in Africa, particularly on issues such as the ordination of women and homosexuality. Personal: BSc, BA in Applied Psychology and Master's in Educational Psychology, Wits. PhD (UCT). Formerly: lectured at Wits University; Senior Lecturer and Dean of Knockando, Wits College of Education; Deacon, Priest and Archdeacon, Johannesburg diocese; 2002, Suffragan Bishop and 2004, Bishop, Grahamstown Diocese; Anglican Archbishop, Cape Town; since January 2008, current position. 2009, honorary doctorate in Divinity, General Theological Seminary, Episcopal Church, New York. Member, NGO boards. Author of book, Connectedness (2005). Recipient of awards including: Cross of St Augustine, Archbishop of Canterbury. Interests: theological books, walking, writing, leadership development. << Back to Patrons |