It has been one year since Rev Erlo Stegen's passing. He was a significant figure in missionary work among the Zulu people and left behind a legacy of hope, love and kindness. His journey began from humble beginnings over seventy years ago and evolved into a sustainable mission deeply rooted in his commitment to his calling. Rev Erlo was not appreciated enough during his lifetime for his outstanding work, and this month we celebrate his legacy by sharing positive news about his life’s work.
Born on March 2, 1935, on the farm Paardefontein in KwaZulu-Natal (KZN), Erlo Stegen was the grandson of German immigrants who established themselves in rural KZN. He grew up in a Christian household, where he first felt a compelling desire to serve the Zulu community at 17. This calling led him to begin his ministry in Maphumulo during the 1950s. Stegen dedicated his life to spreading the gospel and uplifting the Zulu nation, forging a lasting impact through tireless efforts and obedience to his mission.
Young Erlo, filled with a fervent calling to preach among the Zulu people, embarked on a remarkable ministry journey with little more than his faith and determination. In the beginning, he found himself in an old, abandoned cowshed, which he transformed into his makeshift sanctuary for prayer and worship. It was in this humble setting that the divine spark ignited, drawing large crowds who came to seek solace and guidance. As the number of souls yearning for spiritual nourishment soared, the cowshed quickly reached its limits, unable to accommodate the growing worshippers. Many of these attendees travelled great distances, burdening the young preacher and his few devoted co-workers, who struggled to provide basic food and shelter for the influx of followers.
Recognising the pressing need for support, Erlo and his team acquired a farm in the Kranskop area and established a mission station called KwaSizabantu, which means “the place where people are helped” in Zulu. They built essential structures with limited resources and initiated agricultural projects to support the crowds seeking spiritual guidance.
The mission's focus on feeding and housing those in need has driven its numerous construction and agricultural initiatives. Over the years, Erlo has forged strong ties with community members and partners, evolving the mission into a thriving organisation dedicated to spreading the gospel and improving lives.
KwaSizabantu has developed a range of buildings and agricultural ventures, generating revenue supporting the community and the missionaries’ outreach programs. Despite challenges, this enduring work has transformed KwaSizabantu into one of the largest missions in Africa, a testament to Rev Erlo's dedication and the community's resilience.
Rev. Erlo pioneered uplifting communities in various areas, particularly in agriculture, economics, education, and humanitarian initiatives. Over the years, he faced significant challenges and encountered numerous obstacles. However, these challenges only temporarily distracted him; he quickly returned to what he viewed as his God-given mission. In the process, he has enhanced the economic well-being of countless poor communities. He also taught business skills to the workers on an ongoing basis and pioneered and provided schooling and affordable tertiary education to remote communities over seven decades. His legacy is growing and still benefits thousands.
Read more about the KwaSizabantu Mission on the website, www.ksb.org.za
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