The Revd Polly Falconer reflects on the Kimberley and Kuruman Summit and what it means to be human in today's world.
I didn't know what to expect, and so I left with an open mind.
As the plane came in to land, I saw the dryness of the land and a lack of hills and mountains.
We were warmly welcomed, and our visits to the churches and journeys through the township areas were enlightening. Hearing the stories of the townships, the pain and the resilience tugged at my heart. I developed an understanding of what it is to be 'coloured' in today's South Africa. The struggle to belong is very real for this community. The churches however draw communities together into one family.
The summit for me was both transformative and inspiring. Emotive topics around the church and gender, gender-based violence, and the voice of young people, explored in the context of faith, provided opportunities for deep and meaningful conversations, underpinned by bible studies.
Breaking down the theme of light, salt and yeast enabled us to reflect on our own faith, in terms of being the light where there is darkness, being the salt that adds something to the lives of others, and being yeast that transforms injustice for example.
There were special moments throughout, but watching nursery children delight in singing 'Jesus loves me', visiting the centre for women, hearing their stories and celebrating their successes, and preaching and presiding in a church where 209 attended (half were away at a conference), blessing over 70 children and a car - yes, I did say a car! - are some of my highlights.
On my final evening, the acting Archdeacon brought me food and explained the significance of having a black woman priest visit from the UK. I had no idea, although I was very aware of the excitement at the church service. The young people just wanted photos with me. I was also aware that people seemed drawn to me. Suddenly it made sense. Those who hadn't visited the UK had no idea that there were black women priest in the Diocese of Oxford.
There is much to learn from each other. The link is a true blessing for both dioceses. A growing family that celebrates the richness in the diversity that is the Body of Christ.
Thank you to all who worked so hard to make the summit happen.
I have learnt that being human, in the context of our Christian faith is to be the light, the salt, the yeast and the hope for the future of the church in the world.
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The Revd Polly Falconer is the diocesan Racial Justice Adviser. Find out more about Polly and her work.