On 9 April 2021, from 10h00 to 11h30, the Faculty of Theology and Religion held its first ever hybrid Academic Opening Service.  The event started with a word of welcome from Prof Jerry Pillay, dean of the Faculty of Theology and Religion, and was attended by various VIPs, such as Prof Tawana Kupe, vice-chancellor and principal of the University of Pretoria, as well as members of the Executive, Prof Ernest van Eck, deputy dean of the Faculty of Theology and Religion, numerous HODs from the Faculty, house committee members, students and others from all around the globe.

Members of the house committee started the service by lighting a candle in memory of all those who passed away in this pandemic, those who are struggling under persecution and those fighting against the scourge of violence.  What Does not Sink, a poem by Siphokazi Jonas, was then presented by Ms Angela Mutavhatsindi, followed with a moment of Silence.  The Faculty student choir led by Mr Thabiso Thoka gave us a world class performance that was enjoyed by all throughout the entire service.

A scripture reading was presented by Mr Jacques Heymans and Mrs Thanyani Mahanya, then Dr Collin Cowan made the key-note address, pre-recorded in Singapore where he currently resides, entitled Dare to Hope in a Time of Pandemic.  A prayer of intercession followed, thanks to Prof Dirk Human and Rev Dawie Rotteveel, after which, Rev Anandine Greyling led the gathering in a recitation of the Apostle’s Creed.  

Prof Tawana Kupe brought the service to a close with a few parting remarks, and the chairperson on the house committee, Mr Lindokuhle Zikalala, encouraged all students in attendance to push forward to achieve academic excellence.  The recording of the Lord’s Prayer in numerous languages, a benediction by Prof Ernest van Eck, and the singing of the National Anthem rounded out this special time together.

Please join the Faculty of Theology and Religion in welcoming the favour of God to rest firmly upon the University of Pretoria throughout the year ahead!