06 LETTERS
Mandela was the greatest
I was so pleased that Keep The Faith paid tribute to Nelson Mandela, one of the greatest men to ever walk the world’s stage. Even though I am saddened by his death, I - and the world - have no doubt that he’s left a worldwide legacy that has demonstrated to all, who’ve taken note, that it’s better to choose peace over war, unity as opposed to disunity, and love rather than hate. Your front page heading was so apt: ‘What a man, what a life, what a legacy’. Julia McGovern, London
Mandela’s legacy must remain
After watching the news coverage of Nelson Mandela, it’s obvious that when men of colour allow spirituality and a connection with God to play an important role in their lives, they bring something very special to general political discourse. In my mind, Nelson Mandela was a great person, humanitarian and politician and, although there is much to be done to bring about true equality in South Africa, his action, in dismantling the oppressive political system of apartheid by brokering a peaceful transition to Black rule following his release from prison, has to be admired. My prayer is that his legacy will be cherished, and that those who follow in his wake will strive to build a peaceful and equitable South Africa. Joseph Peters, London
Coverage of Mandela made me proud to be Black
Readers’ Letters
We’d love to hear your views on Keep The Faith and the featured articles. Send your letters to Keep The Faith Letters, PO Box 574, Bury St Edmunds, IP33 9BW or better still, email letters@keepthefaith.co.uk
True love exists in our community
Wow, wow, wow! is all I could say, after reading your interview with Kevin Thomas. There are so many negative stories about Black men in the Media, and how they are incapable of being loving and faithful. Kevin Thomas turns such a view on its head. Not only is he a godly man, but he was willing to make the necessary sacrifices – including giving up a great job – to be a carer for his wife, after she suffered a brain aneurysm. Men like Kevin are not only inspirational, they are heroes, and they are the kind of men we need to be reading more about in our media, and hearing more about in our churches. Thanks for sharing his story with us. It was an uplifting read. Hazel Smith, Bristol
As I watched the news coverage of Nelson Mandela’s death, I felt proud to be Black. The Media often like to depict Black people as criminals, unintelligent, etc, but here was a man who could stand head and shoulders alongside many of the great men of history, and who the world reveres and celebrates. Mandela’s life exemplifies the importance of self-sacrifice, determination, perseverance, forgiveness and embracing everyone – no matter what their age, class or ethnicity. His accomplishments are amazing, and I’m glad I lived during the time that the fruits of his sacrifices were realised. Peter Folu, Manchester
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Media story was inspirational
I was so inspired after reading Touching Lives Through The Media. I’m so glad that there are more and more Christians presenting shows in all kind of media, which make the wider community aware of how our faith in Jesus impacts our lives. I would just like to encourage the four people featured - Esther Olufunmi, Pastor Abbiih Oloyede, Ask Patricia and Ibe Giantkiller - to continue their good work, and my prayer is that God enlarges and expands their territory during 2014. Hazel Smith, Bristol
Good governance is a requisite for our churches
Rev Stephen Brooks’ article, The Need For Good Governance, was so needed. During 2014, our churches should make sure that they not only set up good administrative systems, but also ensure that their leadership teams get properly trained, so that they have the right skills necessary to govern and manage a church properly. Maybe Keep The Faith could consider organising some workshop about how churches can establish good administrative practice and governance structures. I’m sure people would be interested in attending, particularly if organised by a publication as respected as yours. Michelle Broughton, Wolverhampton
Thank you for your honesty
I have to applaud the honesty of Selene Jordan, who shared her story of how she got into £23,000 debt and how she was able to clear it. Her experience brought home: (i) how easy it is for individuals to get into debt; (ii) how soul destroying it is, and (iii) that it is possible to get out of debt. Thank God that organisations like CAP exist to help people get out of debt. Angela Henderson, London