After he left, the Christian community here boomed, with churches multiplying and thriving. I believe his work set a powerful example for many churches across South Africa. PJ: His impact was significant. Bonnke’s crusade not only blessed the people here but also sparked a rapid growth in Christianity in the area. Bernie: It sounds like it was a transformative time. How did his visit impact the local churches and the Christian community? PJ: Absolutely. When Evangelist Bonnke came here, it wasn’t his first crusade in South Africa. He had conducted other crusades in the region before this one. But when he arrived in this stadium, it was a remarkable event. There was a profound sense of excitement and anticipation. Bonnke’s visit brought an outpouring of prayer, blessings, and numerous miracles. For many of us, it was the first time witnessing such extraordinary miracles. Bernie: That’s incredible. It seems that his influence extended well beyond the crusade itself. PJ: Exactly. The crusades of Evangelist Bonnke played a crucial role in the growth of Christianity, especially during the revivals that started in 1984. It's been 40 years since then, and the impact is still felt today. Bernie: You mentioned the big tent used during the crusade. Can you tell us more about that? PJ: Yes, the big tent was a significant innovation for us. It was introduced in the city, Springs, and then set up here in Barraguan. The tent was a new and exciting element of the crusades, making it possible to accommodate even larger crowds and reach more people. Bernie: What do you think Evangelist Reinhard Bonnke’s legacy means for Africa? PJ: Bonnke’s legacy is immense. He was the first white man from Germany to unify the entire continent of Africa. At the time, South Africa was deeply divided by apartheid, with significant racial segregation even within the Christian community. Bonnke's arrival marked a turning point. His work fostered unity between black and white churches, particularly focusing on areas that were under served. As a result, churches grew rapidly, transcending previous barriers. Bernie: We’re here with PJ, a dear friend who worked alongside Evangelist Reinhard Bonnke during his original crusade in this very stadium back in 1984. PJ, you spent four years with Bonnke, spreading the gospel across Venda. Can you share your experiences with us? Bernie: That’s a powerful legacy. How did Bonnke's vision shape the future of Christianity in Africa? PJ: Bonnke had a vision of a blood-washed Africa, from Cairo to Cape Town. His impact was profound; he opened doors for communication between pastors, encouraged international visitors, and
IT WAS A TIME OF GREAT SPIRITUAL GROWTH AND UNITY, IT’S A CHAPTER OF MY LIFE I WILL ALWAYS CHERISH. redefined how Christianity could be practiced and shared across the continent. His presence was transformative, and without his influence, the journey of Christianity in Africa might have been very different. Bernie: Do you have any personal reflections on your time working with him? Bernie: Amen, yes, amen. Thank you, Pastor PJ. Thank you very much. God bless you. And you’re going to be here at the Jesus Festival tonight? PJ: Yes, I’ll be here tonight. Looking forward to it! PJ: Yes, I deeply miss him. I remember he once said he wanted to finish his final crusade with us. I had the honor of being part of his team as a worship leader. It was a time of great spiritual growth and unity, and it’s a chapter of my life I will always cherish. I also remember working with many great men of faith, that were with us during that pivotal time.
August 1st, 2024 at 2:30 PM Venda, South Africa
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