Marcel van Niekerk (25), a former student of Soutpansberg Primary School and Louis Trichardt High School, has published his first book.

Pastor Marcel van Niekerk is one of the pastors at the Agapé Christian Centre. He looks up to his father and senior pastor of the church, Pastor Sampie van Niekerk, as his spiritual leader.

The title of the book is The Space Between Us.

“We were never created to take life on single-handedly, but unfortunately, our inability to grow intimate with God has left us flying solo. The space between us and God leaves us in a desolate place where we succumb to loneliness and frustration. We are part of a company of modern-day Christians who believe in a disconnected God rather than a personal Father,” says the young Van Niekerk.

He explains that the Holy Spirit is the one who closes the gap between us and the Father. The Holy Spirit works in a person to accept Jesus Christ, who opens the way to the Father

The book endeavours to clarify the role that the Holy Spirit plays in the lives of Christians and “eradicate the mysterious shadow that has veiled the Holy Spirit for many generations.”

“I chose this topic because it is very relevant in my life and the lives of others right now. Though I completed the book in a short period of time, it flows from my walk with God and living experience of Him over the past 21 years,” says Van Niekerk.

The book launch will take place on Saturday, 26 May at 18:00 at the Agapé Christian Centre and all are welcome to attend. There will be a formal programme, followed by an opportunity to buy the book at R80.

“I already have ideas for a second book!” says Van Niekerk.