Dare to step back to a pivotal moment in Linden’s history standing before the Gereformeerde Kerk Linden. This church is more than just bricks and mortar. It embodies the spirit and faith of a community.
The story of Gereformeerde Kerk Linden began long before its physical structure existed. In 1937, a small church council appointed Ds. D.F.B de Beer as their first minister. The Linden congregation initially consisted of 670 members. They seceded from the Waterval congregation. Early services were held in a small church. It only accommodated 100 people. A large marquee tent was added to accommodate the growing numbers.
Imagine those early days. The Linden hall served multiple purposes. It was a church, a concert hall, and an exhibition space. Primus lamps illuminated the space. Ds. D.F.B de Beer was inaugurated in that marquee tent on May 20 1937. Even the second minister Dr J.G.C. de Beer used it. He later became a professor at Stellenbosch.
The community faced challenges. Dissatisfaction arose when Emmarentia Greenside and other areas were incorporated into Linden. Disputes even reached the synod. Eventually Emmarentia and Greenside were reassigned.
A significant milestone was the construction of the Linden parsonage in 1938. It cost 1750 pounds. This amount was paid off immediately.
The Gereformeerde Kerk Linden itself was inaugurated on May 2 1942. This was a tragic day. The architect of the church drowned at Glenmore beach. Borckenhagen and Louw were the material quantity surveyors. A.J. Louw was the builder. Building materials were scarce due to the war. The builders even personally transported wood from Knysna.
Many dignitaries attended the inauguration. The church boasted beautiful furniture, red carpets, and a Hammond organ. The total cost was 7800 pounds.
Another highlight was the ox wagon trek in 1938. The Johanna van der Merwe post wagon stopped here. Its tracks were captured in cement in the front garden. Ferndale, Fontainebleau and Fairland later seceded from Linden in 1944.
Many individuals contributed to the Gereformeerde Kerk Linden. M.J Christiani’s wife donated the pulpit. Niklaas Jooste donated the new lights. Louw Geldenhuis also contributed generously. Marie and Sybie van der Spuy donated the weathercock. Their father installed it on the church tower. L.T Heydenrych donated all the chancel chairs. The Asaf choir thrived under Mrs. J.F Jooste’s leadership. Sarie Welman was the Linden organist for many years.
In 1951, the Vryburger hall was built. Dr. DF Malan the then Prime Minister of South Africa laid the cornerstone. Chris Engelbrecht a high school student from Linden named the hall.
Every Sunday evening, the Koffiehuis hosted gatherings after the service. The congregation enjoyed tea coffee, music, and fellowship. New members were welcomed.
In its first 21 years the church baptised 1700 children. They also confirmed 1096 young people.
The Gereformeerde Kerk Linden’s foundation stone was laid on December 6 1941. The church was consecrated in May 1942.
The Linden congregation began with 670 members. By 1944, it had grown to 1240. By 1955, the congregation continued to expand.
By the church’s 21st anniversary the congregation consisted of 1692 members. The church council was the largest in the entire Transvaal. It consisted of 100 members.
The first elected church council included elders and deacons. The first service was held on October 11 1936. The text read was Exodus 13:21.
The Linden congregation has been blessed by many pastors. Ds. D.F.B de Beer served from 1937 to 1945. Ds. Martin Kruger followed from 1945 to 1949. Ds. G.J.J Boshoff then led from 1950 to 1961.
The Gereformeerde Kerk Linden’s story is one of faith community and dedication. It is a testament to the enduring power of belief. Its legacy continues to shape the spiritual landscape of Linden. Remember the stories and the people who built this church.