Church ordains gay and lesbian pastors

The Victorious Ministries Church International, the first homosexual church in KZN, introduced ordained gay and lesbian pastors, Skhumbuzo Sibisi (35) and Bonisile Magwaza (48) at the Wiggins Community Hall in Mayville, Durban, on Saturday.

Leading the ceremony was lesbian pastor Dr Zenzi Zungu, who received criticism when she married her wife, Magatsheni Zungu, in 2009.

Both pastors were in tears as Pastor Sibusiso Ncama from the Faith Mission gave them words of encouragement.

"Even when they call you names or swear at you, don't fight back.

"The Lord is there to fight all your battles.

"There are people who claim they can never be associated with such things because it's against the word of God. But they forget that those who believe they are high and mighty are not so in the eyes of the Lord. It is not for us to judge," said Ncama.

Pastor Zungu said: "Our church was established to create a home where homosexuals can praise the Lord without being judged. The appointment of our pastors means growth for the church as we plan to spread all over Mzansi."

Local resident, Sandile Mgabadeli (48) watched as church members left the ceremony in high spirits.

"I didn't even know that there can be gay pastors.

"It's a true sign that the world is coming to an end," he said.