St. Matthew’s Anglican Church

In the heart of Harfield Village, St. Matthew’s Anglican Church stands as a symbol of resilience and community. It’s more than just a church; it’s a place where echoes of the past intertwine with the present, where stories of forced removals and reunions resonate within its walls. St. Matthew’s has witnessed a significant moment in history, the launch of “Impossible Return”. This book, authored by Professor Siona O’Connell, chronicles the heartbreaking forced removals that took place in Harfield and Claremont during apartheid. The project started with photographs taken by David Brown in the 1970s, capturing the vibrant community just before and during the removals. St. Matthew’s Church hosted the book launch, a fitting location considering its importance to the community. Ex-residents, many traveling from areas like Mitchells Plain and Manenberg, returned to this sacred space, a familiar haven amidst the upheaval of their past. The launch wasn’t just a book event; it was a homecoming. The air vibrated with emotion as an interfaith blessing was given by Reverend Mzwabantu Magadla of St. Matthew’s, Professor Peter Storey from the South African Methodist Church, and Mr. Mohammed Maged from Harvey Street Mosque. A panel discussion followed, featuring prominent figures like Professors Pippa Skotnes, Murray Leibbrandt, and Mary Burton, along with Professor O’Connell. They delved into the book’s origins, the TRC’s shortcomings regarding forced removals, and the complex issue of poverty traps in South Africa. Alongside the book launch, Jade Nair’s mobile exhibition, “A Childhood Disrupted,” poignantly highlighted the impact of the removals on children, using Brown’s photographs to explore the lasting effects of childhood trauma. St. Matthew’s Anglican Church continues to be a sanctuary, a beacon of hope, and a testament to the strength of the Harfield community, even in the face of adversity. It is a place where the past is honored and the future is embraced.