Rt Rev Adv SPH Nyambi Honours the Legacy of Rev M.H. Phelembe and Rev H.V. Degama

In a moving tribute to two of the Evangelical Presbyterian Church in South Africa’s revered spiritual leaders, the Moderator of the EPCSA, Rt Rev Adv SPH Nyambi, undertook pastoral visits to the families and resting places of the late Rev Monyana Hendrick Phelembe and Rev Hlupheka Vincent Degama during the week of 14–15 May 2026. The visits formed part of the Church’s ongoing commitment to honouring the faithful servants whose leadership, sacrifice, and vision helped shape the EPCSA into what it is today.

Visit to the Phelembe Family

On Thursday, 14 May 2026, the Moderator visited Jeffrou Phelembe at Doornpoort, outside Pretoria. The purpose of the visit was to assure the family that the EPCSA continues to cherish and remember the immense contribution made by Jeffrou Phelembe and her late husband, Rev Monyana Hendrick Phelembe.

Rev Phelembe served the Church with distinction and once held the office of Moderator of the EPCSA. During the visit, the Moderator reflected on the enduring legacy of Rev Phelembe, stating that he leads the Church fully aware that he stands on the shoulders of giants such as Rev Phelembe, whose leadership laid strong foundations for future generations. As part of the visit, the Moderator also visited the resting place of Rev Phelembe, where he paid tribute by laying a wreath and observing a moment of silence in honour of the late church leader’s life and ministry.

The Phelembe family expressed heartfelt appreciation to the EPCSA and its leadership for the thoughtful and deeply moving visit.

Visit to the Degama Family

On Friday, 15 May 2026, the Moderator proceeded to Lenasia, outside Johannesburg, to visit Jeffrou Nomhle Degama, the wife of the late Rev Hlupheka Vincent Degama. The Moderator was accompanied by the Chairperson of Rand Presbytery, Reverend Halata.

Rev Degama is remembered as a veteran and stalwart who served both the Church and surrounding communities with excellence, dedication, and humility. Among his many contributions to the EPCSA, he served as Chairperson of the then EPCSA Education Committee. Under his leadership, several students were sent for ministerial training at the Federal Theological Seminary, including the current Moderator himself.

Reflecting on Rev Degama’s contribution, the Moderator acknowledged the profound role he played in developing future church leaders and strengthening theological education within the EPCSA. The Moderator also visited the resting place of Rev Degama, where he laid a wreath and observed a moment of silence in honour of his faithful service and lasting legacy. In a deeply spiritual moment during the visit, the Moderator served Jeffrou Degama with Holy Communion, offering prayers, comfort, and fellowship to the family.

Jeffrou Degama and her family thanked the Church for recognising and honouring their contribution and continued service to the EPCSA.

Honouring the Pillars of the Church

These visits served as a powerful reminder of the EPCSA’s commitment to preserving the legacy of its spiritual pioneers and honouring those whose faithful service continues to inspire generations of believers and church leaders.

As the Church continues its journey of ministry and growth, it remains grounded in the sacrifices, wisdom, and dedication of leaders such as Rev M.H. Phelembe and Rev H.V. Degama, whose contributions remain deeply woven into the history and identity of the EPCSA.