On Easter Sunday 2026, the newly enthroned Bishop of the Diocese of Johannesburg, the Rt. Revd Dr Sepadi Moruthane visited Manche Masemola Anglican Church, Protea Glen, and he marked the occasion by planting a Syzygium tree within the church grounds.
From the olden days, a bishop planting a tree carries meaning. It is said to reflect growth and stewardship. This act shows care for creation and responsibility toward future generations.
Planting a tree on Easter Sunday gives this greater meaning as Easter represents Jesus Christ’s victory over death, his resurrection and new life. The tree will then become a living reminder of that message.
The Syzygium tree itself adds further significance. Many Syzygium species are evergreen, representing stability and longevity. They can produce fruit and offer shade. This reflects a church that offers support, and nourishment to its people. The tree may eventually develop into a common area where the people of the church and community gather to relax and interact.
This simple act tells a bigger message. It is about planting seeds that will live beyond this moment. It is about building a church that grows not only in numbers but also in influence and presence within the community.
Zimbili Gama from the Server’s Guild and Sunday School shared her thoughts on why the Bishop planted a tree at the church. “I think it’s because he was leaving a memory and an inspiration of the plantation when he said, ‘plant a tree for yourself because prices are going up and share it with your neighbour’. Well, for me, it was like he was leaving a big blessing, making a memory, and encouraging us to make a big difference in our communities and to share what we have. Like plants, food and prayer, well, that’s what I think about the tree”
Owethu Kebeni from the St Agnes Guild and Sunday School says if this tree could speak, it would tell us that “ngizokhula, be wise and prosper”.
Gomolemo Hlongwane from the Server’s Guild and Youth also shared what it meant to him witnessing the bishop planting a tree at our church as well as how he sees this tree reflecting the future of the church and community. “To me, witnessing such an event not only reminded me to go back and check whether I’m still rooted in God as the tree’s roots remain, but it also meant the beginning of a new chapter and the growth of the church not only in members but in a shaped purpose. The tree reflects promise, for it will remain there and grow to give us shade on sunny days, just like God will remain with us in the storms. Yes, it won’t grow overnight, and neither will the healing, and that’s what reminds us of God’s promise to never leave nor forsake us”
By Revd. Theo
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