MAKONDE – “I feel as strong as a bull and younger than a teenager. I feel like jumping and running around like a young athlete,” said Mr Wilson Ravele (104) during a special function that was organized in honour of 36 elders of the Evangelical Lutheran Church of Southern Africa, Makonde congregation, on Sunday.

The Vice-Chairperson of the congregation, Mr Livhuwani Phophi, explained why the elders were treated like royalty. “We set aside this day to acknowledge the contribution of these elders to the development of our church. We felt it would be unfair to talk about their good deeds when they are dead. Elders have been very instrumental in the development of our church and their hard work cannot just go unnoticed. We also wanted to demonstrate our love for them and to show them that they are still important in our lives.”

Phophi said the church elders have been working tirelessly to bring light to the church and community.

“Their wealth of experience has taught us to approach life and church matters wisely. They are the pillars of our strength and they deserve to be treated with dignity.”

Ravele said the day brought joy in his life because he knows that there are people who still care for elders like him. “The function has really revived me. I pass my gratitude to the church leadership for thinking about us. I thought elders were forgotten but I am very happy because we are still regarded as useful members of the community. This has been quite an enjoyable day which will always remain in my mind.”

Elders shared their experiences with the youth about life and acceptable social behaviour. Health officials also advised the elders about the dangers of chronic diseases like diabetes, high blood pressure and HIV/Aids. They were also informed about the importance of exercise, to keep themselves fit and healthy. The elders were presented with plates and cups by the church.