October 13, 2002

It is wonderful to have the opportunity to congratulate a dear friend, the Reverend Erlo Stegen, on reaching a milestone in the ministry of evangelism. I only wish that I could have been able to deliver a worthy tribute in person, but regret that an annual conference of my Party demands that I am kept from being with you. Distance, however, does not affect the depth of my admiration and love for the Reverend and I pray that my words of support today will echo those I have spoken in person on many occasions. I have enjoyed a close friendship with Reverend Stegen which spans many years, throughout which time we have grown together in Christ and strengthened our relationship as we supported one another on this Christian journey.

Looking back on the past 50 years, there can be no doubt that Reverend Stegen has left his mark on the communities in South Africa. Through his diligent work at KwaSizabantu Mission, many lives have been changed. He has helped to improve the physical circumstances of countless people by operating at a level where it really counts. He has resolved problems with Godly wisdom and by the authority which seems so naturally his. He has ensured healing of both body and spirit. But perhaps what stands out most clearly for all those who have worked with him, or been ministered to by him, is the Reverend's sincere love for his brothers and sisters. His work draws on a deep well of compassion within. As a friend of many years, I know that the Reverend's heart has expanded with each passing year and, with each year that he has spent in ministry, his passion to spend another in this same work has grown.

Reverend Stegen has always reminded me of St Paul the Apostle. I have seen the same passion and courage in my friend as I find expressed in the character of St Paul. St Paul traveled to many places on missionary journeys, spreading the gospel and establishing a foundation on which other Christians could build. It is a testimony to Reverend Stegen's good work that wherever he evangelises, a solid foundation is laid for others to build upon. In this way, he has performed his own role in harmony towards the mighty work of God. I think that the Reverend will understand St Paul's words when he explained that one sows, another waters, but God gives the increase. In co-labouring with our Creator lies the greatest fulfillment. I thank God that no matter how strenuous or difficult the past 50 years may have been, my friend has known the joy of working with the Lord.

There have, no doubt, been some trying times, as the work of evangelism demands sacrifice and continuous commitment. Yet I trust that the Reverend looks back on the landscape of 50 years and sees that the valleys and the mountaintops have both been walked in the company of Christ. I am deeply saddened that at this time my brother travels through a valley once again due to the illness of his wife. I know that Mrs. Stegen has been an unmatched support for her husband throughout these years and I pray that God Almighty will give them both the strength to face this difficult time. I am reminded that a cord of three strands is not easily broken and I wish to encourage my brother to lean on our Lord. We may not know the plans and the seasons of God, but we may be sure that He will never leave us nor forsake us. He knows the deepest cry of our hearts and is ready to comfort, to strengthen and give peace.

As we celebrate 50 years in ministry for the Reverend Stegen, I wish to thank God for a good friend, a powerful evangelist and a man of unshakable faith. May his ministry continue in South Africa for many years to come.