Moravian Church in South Africa Seeks Return to Missionary Spirit

Lizwi Mtumtum, President of the Moravian Church in South Africa, reflects on his journey from investment banker to church leader, emphasizing a return to the missionary spirit that once defined the Moravian presence in the region. Born in Matatiele, Eastern Cape, Mtumtum grew up in a religious household where his mother, a teacher, instilled a deep respect for education and faith. Despite limited financial resources, a scholarship enabled him to study economics and accountancy in the United States, a path he describes as a “real blessing.”

Mtumtum’s transition from a corporate career to church leadership began through involvement in youth ministry and financial roles within the Moravian Church in South Africa (MSCA). His dedication led to leadership positions, culminating in his election as president in 2024. As only the second layperson to hold this role, he seeks to model servant leadership, encouraging others to rediscover their purpose and responsibility within the church.

Mtumtum’s early life in a rural community shaped his understanding of faith and service. Raised by his mother after his father’s death, he and his siblings moved frequently due to his mother’s teaching assignments. While they attended various churches, including Catholic and Pentecostal congregations, Mtumtum found no lasting spiritual home until his involvement with the Moravian Church.

Despite his academic and professional achievements, Mtumtum felt a calling to use his talents for service. He credits his scholarship and subsequent career as a means to “share that blessing” with others through church work. His early exposure to diverse religious environments, though not centered on the Moravian tradition, laid the groundwork for his eventual commitment to the church.

Mtumtum’s current focus is on revitalizing the Moravian Church’s missionary ethos, particularly among young South Africans. He believes the church must rediscover its original mission of sharing the Word of God in a way that resonates with contemporary audiences. This mission, he argues, is not merely about theological teaching but about embodying a spirit of service and purpose that reflects the church’s historical role in the region.

The Moravian Church in South Africa, like many religious institutions, faces the challenge of remaining relevant in a rapidly changing society. Mtumtum’s leadership offers a vision of renewal through servant leadership and a renewed commitment to mission. His background as a layperson underscores a shift toward inclusivity and practical service within the church’s leadership structure. This approach aligns with the biblical call to serve one another in love, as seen in Ephesians 4:15, which encourages believers to speak the truth in love and grow into unity.

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