More than 2 000 pastors from Vhembe are expected to converge near the Thohoyandou Stadium tomorrow at 11:00 (Saturday, 19 May). This fist gathering of its kind, dubbed Pastor’s Luncheon Fellowship, has been initiated and sponsored by Professional Insurance Brokers (PIB) and MTG Funerals.

A 2 000-seater tent will be erected at the venue. Well-known international acclaimed gospel group ECHO will be entertaining guests while the distinguished motivational speaker, Dr Elijah Maswanganyi, who has travelled around the world, will give a keynote address during the function.

The acting administration manager at PIB, Mr Ntshavhiseni Mudau, explained to Mirror why the function is important. "At times, we only call pastors when we need them to counsel us in problematic times. We also remember them when we need their services in officiating at funerals, weddings and parties. We have been inspired by the fact that community members never think of saying thank you to the pastors by calling them to one place and praising them for their contributions in the communities. Pastors are doing a good job and they deserve to be praised in public."

Mudau added that it is the policy of PIB and MTG to give back to the communities they serve. "Our community development plan clearly indicates that we are obliged to empower our communities because they made us what we are. We will never stop developing our people because they are the cream of our business."

The chairperson of the organizing committee of the function, Dr Muvhango Maanzwane, said they have been organising the function since November last year. "It took us a long time to organize it because it is a very big function, the likes of which has never taken place in Vhembe. The function is also meant to establish contacts among the pastors and build friendship and cooperation."

Dr Maanzwane says the function will also be attended by traditional leaders and representatives from different municipalities. Those who want to know more about the function can call him at 083 492 2784.