Chief Apostle visits historic Robben Island Chief Apostle Jean-Luc Schneider’s visit to South Africa for the first time as Chief Apostle comes at a very special time in the country’s history. Chief Apostle Jean-Luc Schneider’s visit to South Africa for the first time as Chief Apostle comes at a very special time in the country’s history. South Africa celebrates 20 years of democracy since its watershed democratic elections in 1994. No visit to Cape Town is complete without a visit to Robben Island – one of the beacons of democracy. It was home to the late iconic statesman, Nelson Mandela, for 18 of the 27 years of his incarceration and has become one of the places of homage since the passing of Madiba last year. A visit to Robben Island was therefore the start of the programme of activities. The Chief Apostle and his entourage were greeted with a magnificent view of Table Bay early on the second day of their itinerary. The sea was calm and it had a slight morning mist suggesting an air of mystery and expectation. The chilly boat ride across the calm bay reminds us that autumn has arrived. Once you step on the island, the history of it is nuanced in everything around you, embedded in its essence and life force. The 45-minute bus ride with a guide offering commentary was welcomed by eager questions and observations. Then there was a stop with an opportunity to view the Murrays Bay Harbour precinct attractions, such as the Muslim shrine and the Lepers’ graveyard. Then it was a stop at a church where our small congregation gathers on the Island. A group photo of the chief apostle and those accompanying him marked the occasion. The visit to the infamous Maximum Security Prison was the highlight of the visit. Viewing Madiba’s cell was a deeply emotional experience. The group was quiet and contemplative during this part of the tour lead by one of the former inmates on the island. On the boat trip back there was a deep sense of contemplation and quietude, reflecting on the richness of the experience. A sense of peace . . . and gratitude – for grace!
Posted on: Fri, 14 Mar 2014 08:11:03 +0000
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