Zebaldt Ngaruka
For decades, members of Ephesians Parish in Gobabis found solace in their pews, but recently, they have found themselves standing in protest, resulting in no church service being held last Sunday.
Driven by allegations of procedural unfairness, unequal treatment and administrative secrecy, a group of longtime congregants has broken the traditional silence of the church to demand transparency from its leadership, sparking a painful debate over faith, trust and institutional oversight.
The parishioners told New Era that they have raised questions about the circumstances surrounding Pastor Manfredt Zeraeua’s suspension, including the clarity of the reasons communicated and the procedures followed.
Katherine Kambauruma, speaking on behalf of the concerned parishioners, requested an explanation of the basis for the decision and confirmation that the applicable church rules and processes were observed during the pastor’s suspension.
“We are concerned that written correspondence submitted by parishioners about matters affecting the parish has, according to the members concerned, remained unanswered, while responses have reportedly been provided when queries were submitted by a particular group of elders,” she said.
Kambauruma added that this had created a perception of inconsistent treatment, prompting the group to request that formal concerns be acknowledged and addressed impartially, regardless of who raises them.
Another concern relates to the swearing-in of two elder members on 4 October. One elder was sworn in, while the other was not permitted to proceed by Dean of Circuit Windhoek Collin Cloete, although the concerned parishioners understand that both had met the requirements.
“We request clarification of the criteria applied and the reasons for the different outcomes. We also note the elder who was sworn in had reportedly stated during two meetings in the previous year that she could no longer carry out her duties. This history is raised as a matter requiring clarification, not as a conclusion about that individual’s suitability,” she explained.
On communication, the group said information about parish matters was often conveyed through one individual rather than directly through the pastor’s office or other recognised church channels. They argued that this could leave members uncertain about which information was official and contribute to misunderstandings.
“We requested that the important information be communicated accurately, consistently and through appropriate channels. Questions have also been raised about the reported arrival of the bishop and members of his leadership without prior notice to the congregation,” Kambauruma said. According to the parishioners, information about the bishop’s visit was shared with certain church individuals but was not communicated through the pastor’s office. They are seeking clarification on the arrangements for the visit and whether the decisions and actions in question are consistent with the Evangelical Lutheran Church in the Republic of Namibia (ELCRN) constitution and applicable procedures.
“We are respectfully asking for clarification about the arrangements for the visit and the communication process followed. We are also seeking clarification on whether the decisions and actions under question are consistent with the ELCRN constitution and applicable church procedures,” she added.
The group also expressed concern about delays in receiving feedback on letters submitted by parishioners, while a particular group of elders had reportedly received responses on other matters. Kambauruma cited permission allegedly granted to a group of elders to conduct the 11h00 church service before feedback had been recorded on correspondence concerning related challenges.
The concerned members are now requesting intervention from the ELCRN’s higher authorities, in consultation with relevant church structures and, where appropriate, the Council of Churches in Namibia.
“We are asking the authorities to review the concerns and support correspondence submitted by the parishioners. Also, to establish the facts and give all relevant parties a fair opportunity to respond,” she said.
They further want clarification on the constitutional provisions governing the decisions, consistent responses to written correspondence and constructive engagement aimed at reaching a fair and lasting resolution.
“The authorities must promote impartial communication, transparent decision-making and equal treatment of parishioners, and facilitate constructive engagement aimed at a fair and lasting resolution that protects the unity and integrity of the parish,” Kambauruma said.
The parishioners have written to the relevant church authorities, requesting responses within seven working days of receipt, where practicable, or an acknowledgement indicating when a substantive response can be expected. New Era is in possession of the letters submitted by the aggrieved members.
“We, parishioners, have stated that the church services are to be put on hold with immediate effect in Gobabis until the matter is resolved. Our intention is not to create conflict or to undermine church leadership. We seek fairness, clarity, accountability, and an appropriate process for resolving the concerns raised,” she said.
The members remain hopeful that open dialogue, respect for church procedures and timely responses will help restore trust, strengthen peaceful coexistence and safeguard the unity of Ephesians Parish.
-zngaruka@gmail.com
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