Here at the New Apostolic Church – Uitsig, we stand on sacred ground. This church is more than just a building. It is a testament to faith and community.
The New Apostolic Church’s story in South Africa began with Carl Georg Klibbe. He arrived from Australia in 1889 to begin mission work. Klibbe’s early efforts in Cape Town met limited success. Hearing of German settlers near East London, he moved there in 1892.
In East London, Klibbe founded a thriving community. They built their own church on St Georges Road. This was in Southernwood, a residential suburb. Klibbe also sent servants to Port Elizabeth Durban and Johannesburg. From these cities, they spread to other towns including Grahamstown and Kimberley.
The first New Apostolic Church service in Cape Town happened on Pentecost in 1906. The congregation became known as the German Apostolic Church.
Apostle Klibbe faced a severe disagreement within the church. He appointed G H W Schlapphof as Bishop in 1910. But by 1912, he changed this appointment to District Elder. This decision led to a division.
In 1913, District Elder Schlapphof received the Apostle Ministry while in Germany. Chief Apostle Niehaus ordained him. Apostle Klibbe was excommunicated but refused to accept this.
From 1913, two churches in South Africa operated as the New Apostolic Church. One was led by Apostle Klibbe. The other was led by Apostle Schlapphof. The Supreme Court settled the dispute in 1926. Klibbe continued as “The Old Apostolic Church of Africa”.
Apostle Klibbe died on 22 May 1931. Apostle C.F.W. Ninow succeeded him. Ninow appointed black Apostles including Apostle S Hlatshwayo in 1953. He also appointed Apostle Ndlovu in 1961.
The New Apostolic Church continued to grow. It adapted and evolved over the years. Today it remains a beacon of faith in Uitsig and beyond. It welcomes all who seek spiritual solace and community. The New Apostolic Church – Uitsig is a place of worship and a testament to a vibrant history.