Barnabas Edward Lekganyane is a prominent religious figure in South Africa. He is the leader of the Zion Christian Church(ZCC), one of the largest African-initiated churches, with millions of members.
Early Life and Childhood
Barnabas Lekganyane was born on 21 February 1912 in Thabakgone, a village in the Polokwane district of Limpopo, South Africa. He was born into a family that had a long history of religious leadership. His father, Edward Lion, was the founder of the Zion Christian Church in 1910, and Barnabas Lekganyane's appointment as the leader of the church was seen as a natural succession.
Education and Career
Barnabas Lekganyane did not receive any formal education but was taught by his father. He became involved in the Zion Christian Church at a young age, and his father gradually trained him to be his successor. When his father died in 1948, Barnabas Lekganyane became the head of the church.
Under his leadership, the church grew rapidly and became one of the most influential religious organisations in South Africa. He established several mission schools, hospitals, and various other projects to benefit his followers.
Personal Life
Barnabas Lekganyane married his first wife, Christina Mokhethi, in 1939. The couple had ten children together before Christina passed away in 1961.
In 1962, he married his second wife, Sophia Tshepe, and they had three children together.
Legacy and Contributions
Barnabas Lekganyane played a significant role in the history of South Africa, particularly in the apartheid era. He was seen as a spiritual leader and a voice for the oppressed. He encouraged his followers to resist the apartheid government and supported the anti-apartheid movement.
His teaching and belief in the power of prayer and faith played a crucial role in the resistance against the apartheid regime. The church became an essential organisation for many black people who were oppressed under apartheid.
Conclusion
Barnabas Lekganyane continued to lead the Zion Christian Church until his death on 17 September 1967. His legacy continues to live on through the church, which is one of the largest African-initiated churches in the world.
It is important to note that while his exact age at the time of his death was not recorded, he is estimated to have been in his mid-50s.
