On the morning of the 15th July, Paisley Seventh-day Adventist Church came alive with vibrant colors, melodious tunes, and the warmth of Southern African hospitality, celebrating the rich cultures and talents of members from Southern Africa, mainly Zambia and Zimbabwe.
The morning session was dedicated to showcasing the wonders of Zambia, including its economy, tourism attractions, unique culture, and the state of the church within the country. As the day went on, the focus shifted to Zimbabwe and the rest of the Southern African region, where participants shared insightful presentations on their economies, tourism offerings, cultural heritage, and the status of the church. Attendees gained valuable insights into the growth and development of the Seventh-day Adventist Church within these regions.
Traditional attire adorned the attendees, representing the diverse ethnic groups found in Southern Africa, such as the elegant Xhosa outfits, the vibrant Ndebele attire, and the colorful Chichewa ensembles. The vibrant display of traditional clothing showcased the unique identities and cherished customs of each community.
Music played a central role in the day's celebrations. The main song service resonated with the soulful melody of a Shona song, "Maropa aJesu ega," a treasured native composition from Zimbabwe. The entire congregation joined their voices to sing the timeless hymn "Nothing but the blood of Jesus." The event also featured a soul-stirring Tonga song, native to Zambia but embraced by Zimbabweans as well, adding a harmonious touch to the festivities.
Beyond music, the event celebrated the literary talents of the region. Calvin Ndlovu, a renowned Zimbabwean author, presented his two books, From an African Village to Glasgow and The Wanted Child. As a member of the Glasgow SDA Church, Calvin's literary contributions have bridged cultures and enriched readers with captivating stories. Calvin Ndlovu's books are available to purchase on Amazon.
The day was also graced by Pastor Jimmy Botha, President of the Scottish Mission, and his wife, Cedrene, who are originally from South Africa and Zimbabwe, respectively. Pictured below next to Pastor Botha is Vanesa Pizzuto, the Associate Director for TED Communications and also a journalist, broadcaster, an author, and guest speaker for the day. Vanesa's books are available to purchase through Lifesource Bookshop.
The morning programme was followed by sumptuous Southern African lunch, which included delicacies such as Pap, a popular staple food from that region, alongside amangqina (cow heels), and a variety of green vegetables prepared in Southern Africa style.
The Southern Africa Day at Paisley SDA Church was a delightful event, highlighting the richness of the region's culture, the depth of its talents, and the unity of its people. As the day came to a close, the anticipation grew for the upcoming events, including the recent East African celebration on the 22nd July and the forthcoming West African day on the 29th July. These events serve as a reminder that diversity enriches the human experience, and by coming together to celebrate our uniqueness, we create a tapestry of harmony and shared appreciation for the beauty of our world.
