MANY churches depend on weekly donations from their members to keep running and fund projects.
However, the Church of Christ Apostolic in Jerusalem in the Free State stands out with a different approach.
The church has adopted a unique approach to self-sustainability, with members working together to support initiatives that help the church grow and serve its community.
Pastor Keke Motshwane has launched a food bank programme to assist congregants from disadvantaged families.
The initiative provides essential food parcels and support to vulnerable members facing financial hardship.
Pastor Keke explained that the food bank is a practical way for the church to show compassion, unity, and care, ensuring no member goes hungry.
"We are not selling the Word of God. We understand that the cost of living is extremely high and that many of our congregants are unemployed or depend on social grants to survive.
"As a church, we cannot burden people by demanding money every Sunday when they are already struggling to meet their basic needs. Our mission is to uplift, support and bring hope to the community, not to place additional financial pressure on those who are going through difficult times," he said.
Pastor Keke encourages community members and well-wishers to contribute to the programme to help reach more families.
Keke and his wife, Mabatlokwa, have taken over from his late father, who served as church pastor for decades.
"I grew up in a church family, where serving God and helping others was a way of life. After the passing of my parents, I was entrusted with the responsibility of leading the church.
"They taught me the importance of caring for disadvantaged families by providing food, clothing and support to those in need. I am carrying forward the values and teachings they instilled in me. I do not want to see anyone struggling when I am in a position to help. As a church, we must be a source of hope and compassion for our community," said Keke.
