“Orphaned” is the word Pastor Thembelani Maqhajana used to describe his theological isolation. He was in the township Baptist church. Welcome to Grace Baptist Church. It is a beacon of reformed Baptist beliefs in Khayelitsha. This church’s story is one of conviction, courage and community.
Thembelani Maqhajana’s journey began in Crossroad. His family relocated to Khayelitsha in 1991. Saved at a young age, he felt a call to ministry. Financial challenges interrupted his studies at Bible Institute Eastern Cape. He later graduated from Evangelical Bible College. He also attended Cape Town Baptist Seminary.
2008 marked a turning point for Thembelani. He embraced the doctrines of grace. He subscribed to the authority of Scripture. These beliefs often clashed with the prevailing views in township Baptist churches. He felt alone theologically.
Thembelani resolved to plant a Reformed Baptist Church. Another pastor shared his experience. They envisioned a Bible-centered church. It would be in an area lacking a Baptist presence. Bardale in Mfuleni was chosen. Grace Baptist Church was born.
The first service took place on March 5, 2017. It was held at Bardale Primary School. Finding a permanent place of worship proved difficult. The church moved to a garage in Thembelani’s Khayelitsha home.
Grace Baptist Church operates with a clear mission. It aims to glorify God. It does this through disciple-making and fulfilling the Great Commission. The church proclaims the word faithfully. It maintains unity among believers. It pursues social justice.
The vision is to be a gospel-centered church. The church wants to build strong families. It seeks to advance God’s kingdom. It wants to reach the lost with the gospel of Jesus Christ.
The church address is 27 Ntlakohlaza Street, Litha Park, Khayelitsha. Thembelani Maqhajana and Lulama Maqhajana serve as elders. Grace Baptist Church stands as a testament to faith. It is a beacon of hope in Khayelitsha. It exemplifies dedication to biblical truth. The church also demonstrates commitment to community transformation.