Rev. Mandla Khumalo of St. Peter Confessional Lutheran Church in Middelburg, South Africa, has been invited to be a missionary in the Michigan District and elsewhere in the LCMS that proclaims and models the power and joy of Jesus’ Great Commission in our midst. He focuses especially on encouraging a fervor of international, Gospel-centered relationships and on helping build a passion for being “salt and light” in our schools, communities, and congregations. Rev. Khumalo arrived in Michigan in February of 2019 and will remain for a total of two years. He writes:
My family and I want to thank all the congregations of the Michigan District, all pastors, and district office staff for the warm welcome and for all the help in getting us settled and acclimated. Thank you for your moral, financial, and prayer support. At times I forget that I am not at home because of your hospitality, goodwill, and willingness that we would serve together in the field of the Lord.
The congregations, schools, and gatherings I have already visited have been a blessing to many and taught me many things. It is wonderful to see all the children of the Lord who are joyfully baptized Lutherans, full of love for their Savior and Lord. Our gifts are different—some are preachers, some are prayer warriors, some are apostles, some teachers, and others evangelists—but we work together as the body of Christ.
Of note is the great work of Valley Lutheran High School in Saginaw in that they combine their teaching and love in reaching out to children of other nationalities and faiths without discrimination. The school has created an atmosphere of Gospel outreach and Christian message even in song. This is impacting lives for the Gospel, and I would encourage people to utilize this school choir across the district, as I saw a missionary element that could greatly benefit and promote Lutheran education.
The Michigan District, through the Innovative Missional Ministry initiative of the Here We Stand campaign, joyfully and generously supports Pastor Khumalo’s mission and ministry efforts to reach the lost and strengthen the faith of the faithful throughout our district and beyond. To financially support the efforts of Pastor Khumalo, please mail your personal or congregational contribution to: Michigan District LCMS, 3773 Geddes Road, Ann Arbor, MI 48105-3098, Attn: Development Department/Khumalo, or online at michigandistrict.org/donate.
