In 2011, as a young single woman, I received an invitation from a friend to attend a service at ELC Strand Street. I walked through those historic doors and the rich history and breathtaking architecture spoke to me.

One of the first people I encountered was Auntie Ingrid. She had a gift for welcoming visitors – foreigners and locals alike – and would lovingly share the church’s history and its treasured artefacts. Auntie Ingrid has since passed on, and may her dear soul rest in peace, but her warmth remains etched in my memory.

At first, I attended occasionally, but when I moved to Walmer, ELC Strand Street became my spiritual home. Pastor Walter Schwär was leading the congregation then, with Uncle Neville tending the grounds, Werner filling the sanctuary with music from the piano, and Auntie Estelle and Jesse lifting their voices on the microphones. Uncle Dudley Malgas, the chairman, stood faithfully by Pastor Schwär’s side. These were among the faces that greeted me with open arms, ready with a hug and a smile every Sunday.

Back then, the older generation carried much of the responsibility for the church’s committees. They tried to draw younger people into leadership. It wasn’t always easy – there were moments of tension – but over time, the younger generation began to step forward. Slowly, the church became a place for all.

ELC Strand Street became more than a church to me; it became part of my life’s milestones. After moving to Parow in 2016, I continued to worship there. I married in this church, surrounded by people who gave their time and energy to make our day unforgettable. My husband had an immersive baptism at Lagoon Beach with Pastor Schwär, and our sons were born and baptised at ELC Strand Street.

In 2020, God blessed us with our home in Kraaifontein. The distance made regular attendance difficult, so we began worshipping at Vasco. The congregation there needed more hands to serve, and once again, I felt called to step in. Today, Vasco is my primary church, but Strand Street holds a place in my heart. It is where my faith deepened, where friendships blossomed, and where God’s presence was tangible in every hug, every hymn, and every prayer.

As ELC Strand Street celebrates 245 years on December 10, I give thanks for its enduring legacy and for the role it has played in my journey. It is more than a building – it is a family, a heritage, and a testimony of God’s faithfulness through the generations.

Kind regards, Desiree