REV ANDILE MADODOMZI MBETE

REV ANDILE MADODOMZI MBETE: A STRIKING PILGRIMAGE OF FAITH, POLITICS, AND AFRICANISM

 by Dr Thelela Ngcetane-Vika: Author, Activist-Intellectual and Legal Theoretician. Academic at Wits School of Governance: Political Economist, Public Governance, Geopolitics, International Law Scholar, and Women Leadership Development Frameworks Expert.

Introduction: Rev Andile Mbete, affectionately known as Bhele, is a remarkable human being whose greatness is evident in his deep connection to the African soil. This article, therefore, marks his 70th birthday which will be celebrated this Saturday 11th November 2023, and briefly explores his unique ministry that combines politics, religion, Christianity, and Africanism. Reflecting on Rev Andile Mbete's legacy requires a nuanced approach, as his life and ministry are intertwined with the complexities of the human experience. This combination is interwoven into a unique school of thought that can postulate on the proverbial human condition, fraught with imperfections yet impactful. Human development has enigmatic scenes only God knows and can make sense of them. Hence an attempt to deconstruct the visible aspects of his journey, recognizing that true understanding lies beyond human limitations.

Ministering Across Sectors: His extended reach touches the lives of people from diverse backgrounds including politics, African Spirituality, and Ecumenically. Rev Mbete's ability to seamlessly minister across various sectors and dependability on family life serves as an inspiration for generations to come.

The Impact of Early Life: Rev Mbete's formative years in Willowvale, Ngqamakwe, Eastern Cape, within a deeply Methodist family, shaped his character and beliefs. The early loss of his father instilled resilience and a desire to make a difference in the lives of others. These experiences influenced his journey towards becoming a quintessential prophet from the Eastern Cape. He is an avid reader and prolific author. Rev Mbete’s books are laced with a bias toward Africanism and Faith with a touch of advocacy for women’s rights.

Beyond FEDSEM: His time at FEDSEM provided a foundation for his enduring ministry, as he was greatly influenced by erudite theologians such as Dr. TSN Gqubule, Dr Khoza Mgojo, and Dr Dwane, among others. This period shaped his understanding of spirituality, and political activism and further provided a foundation for his enduring ministry, which spans over four decades, including his incarceration in PE. This is what shaped his African Liberation Theology, an important intersectionality for young African theologians. In later years, his tenures as a Bishop of the Methodist Church of Southern Africa in the former Queenstown and Grahamstown districts, respectively, displayed his commitment to serving his beloved church and community. Navigating Imperfections and Ministerial Endurance: Rev Mbete's journey has not been without challenges and imperfections. Admitting his own mistakes and showing vulnerability, allowed him to connect with people deeply. Rev. Mbete's tall stature and presence further added to his impact. With sincerity and honesty, in Rev Mbete’s prolific words from his book titled “Life in a Glass House,’ he asserts that he has been conscious of his inadequacies and strived to be faithful to God and the Church. He believed being a Priest is the highest calling to which anyone can ever be called. Mrs Thembakazi’s quiet whispering has also been his greatest gift as he navigated unchartered waters. In addition, it would also be Rev Monwabisi Vithi as an important bridge, through their enduring friendship, that also shaped him.From the School of Mbete of Theology: His ministry impacted many, with his passion for the gospel, elegant preaching, and ability to connect with people on a deep level. Many ministers, including late Bishop Mthobeli Matyumza, Rev. Luxolo Mantini, and Rev. Mthi, were hugely impacted by Rev. Mbete's ministry. His fascination with the Gospel of John, and his thoughtful, elegant, and cogent unique preaching appealed to many. His love for worship and restlessness with liturgies that remain highly Westernised has evoked in him the ‘African’ liturgist he is renowned for. His love for historical facts and understanding that God can use imperfect people for His Kingdom also made him stand out as a pilgrim between the nuance of life as politics, faith and culture intersect.

Every day, I thank Providence for the improbable path that the gift of providence has put me on, words often found me, and what a perfect fit for me and my true call!

 – In revolutionary writing,

Thelela