On 30 August 2024, the leaders of House Theology hosted its annual gala celebration dinner at TUKS Monate on the UP Hillcrest Campus. About a hundred people were in attendance, dressed with style and ready to feast on a meal prepared by TUKS Res, while witnessing the handover of leadership responsibilities from the previous Executive Committee to the next, duly elected for office by the student within the Faculty of Theology and Religion.

Ms Xongi Masiya, outgoing Chairperson of the Committee, opened the evening with these words of encouragement and admonition:

“Ladies and gentlemen, esteemed faculty, colleagues, and friends.  As we come to the close of this leadership term, I stand before you filled with immense gratitude and deep reflection. It has been an honour to serve alongside such dedicated individuals in the Faculty of Theology and Religion here at the University of Pretoria. This journey has been both a privilege and a humbling experience.

First and foremost, I want to express my sincere thanks to every member of this faculty. Your unwavering support, guidance, and wisdom have been the cornerstone of our collective achievements. Each one of you has contributed to making our Faculty not just a place of academic pursuit, but a community where faith, scholarship, and service intersect in profound ways.

To my fellow leaders, I am deeply grateful for your collaboration, your insights, and your tireless efforts. Together, we have navigated challenges, celebrated successes, and, most importantly, we have fostered an environment where every voice is valued and every effort is recognised. Your dedication has inspired me daily and has set a high standard for leadership within our Faculty.

I also wish to thank our students, whose passion for learning and pursuit of truth have been a continuous source of motivation for all of us. You are the heartbeat of this Faculty, and it is for you that we strive to create a space that nurtures both intellectual and spiritual growth. Your questions, your curiosity, and your faith have enriched our discussions and propelled our mission forward.

To the administrative staff, your behind-the-scenes work has been invaluable. You have kept everything running smoothly, allowing us to focus on our academic and spiritual duties. Your commitment to excellence is deeply appreciated, and your contributions do not go unnoticed.

Finally, I want to express my gratitude to God, who has guided us through every decision, every challenge, and every victory. It is through His grace that we have been able to serve, lead, and learn in this capacity. As we move forward, I pray that we continue to seek His wisdom in all that we do, striving always to reflect His love and truth in our work.

As I step down from this role, I do so with a heart full of gratitude and a deep sense of fulfilment. I am confident that the faculty will continue to thrive under new leadership, and I look forward to supporting and contributing in new ways.

Thank you all for your trust, your partnership, and your friendship. It has been an honour to serve with you. May God bless you all.”

In addition, the Dean of the Faculty, Prof Rantoa Letšosa, in collaboration with the office of Student Advising and the Department of Student Administration, presented achievement awards during the ceremony to top achievers in categories such as teaching and learning support, sports and culture performance, as well as academic merit and more.

Indeed, it was an evening to remember, and one more example of the kindness and joy so prevalent in the Faculty of Theology and Religion at the University of Pretoria.