The prestigious Legends Awards returns for its second annual celebration of spiritual excellence and community impact.
The 2024 event is set to honour distinguished spiritual leaders who have made significant contributions to their communities and the world at large.
Founded by visionary leader, Pastor Melitta Molete in 2023, the Legends Awards is a heartfelt initiative designed to recognise and celebrate the immense impact of men and women of faith who have profoundly shaped lives and nations through their spiritual leadership.
“This initiative was birthed and planted in my spirit after the passing of the Evangelist Johannes Masusu Mofokeng. Masusu was well-known for his evangelism work especially within the North West Province. I had a strong desire in my heart that men like him ought to be honoured and encouraged for their contribution to the gospel of Jesus Christ in South Africa and the entire continent.
“I must acknowledge that he had in some way influenced me in this matter, if he did not plant the seed. Upon testing the idea with a few of those I thought would fit the profile, I was amazed at their wholehearted reception and support for the expressed idea,” said Molete.
She further said: "As a child of a pastor, I have first-hand experience of the sacrifices my father and other pastors had to make to ensure the success of the vision God had given them. This is the main motivation for this initiative, to honour those who have run this race and are still running and are doing the most of their calling”.
Molete said these events will also have the effect of exposing the younger generation to some of the special leadership traits of the giants and possibly help to build generational solidarity in their rapidly evolving society. I know that this can be an expensive and demanding task but I trust that God never gives you a vision without backing it up with the necessary provision,” said Molete..
She said the 2023 chapter, held on November 04 at House of Treasure Ministries, south of Johannesburg, was a resounding success.
Molete said attendees were captivated by the inspiring profiles of the honoured legends.
The event created an atmosphere of deeper connection and reverence for these elders, with many guests expressing gratitude for an experience that opened their eyes to the extraordinary lives of these spiritual giants.
Molete said the goodwill messages poured in after the event, with attendees commenting on how it revealed the otherwise unknown spiritual riches and treasures God had deposited in the lives of his own legends.
Molete said the event also emphasised the importance of honouring the elders in a way that inspires younger generations to follow in their footsteps.
She revealed that this year’s honorees include ten remarkable individuals; the late Pastor Ray McCauley who was the Senior Pastor of Rhema Bible Church and pioneer of faith-based leadership in South Africa, Dr. Elijah Maswanganyi the international motivational speaker, educator, and counsellor, Pastor Mosa Sono who is the Senior Pastor of Grace Bible Church, Dr. M.B. Mphahlele from New Generation Church in Lenting Limpopo, Professor T.H. Baloyi from Fountain of Life Church Movement in Mpumalanga, Apostle I.N. Sithole from Oasis Of Life Family Church in Daveyton, Chief Apostle B.N. Lukhele from Apostolic Gospel Church International in Tembisa, Arch Lady Bishop B. Masina from Blessed Jerusalem Church in Midvaal, Dr. M.O. Mokgope from New Covenant Fellowship International in Rustenburg, Dr. J.M. Bishop Mmusi from Jesus My Answer Ministry in Ga-Rankuwa, Bishop D.A. Lazarus from Siloam Word of Truth in Brakpan.
The evening will feature musical performances by renowned gospel artists, including Keke,
Puleng March, Sello Malete, Londiwe Sphe Nxumalo, Rofhiwa, and Khaya Sibanyoni from
Joyous Celebration, ensuring a night filled with powerful worship and celebration.
“The event will also be supported by key sponsors and partners, including SA Candle Supply and the Vuyo Mokoena Foundation among others, all contributing to the mission of recognising these spiritual leaders for their profound influence,” said Molete.
She said the black carpet will roll out at 4:30 PM, offering attendees the chance to celebrate and interact with some of the biggest names in the faith and entertainment communities. Doors will open at 4:00 PM with the ceremony beginning at 6:00 PM.
"These leaders are the spiritual giants of our time. Their tireless efforts to guide, counsel, and uplift those around them cannot go unnoticed. At the Legends Awards, we want to give them their flowers while they can still smell them," said Bishop Ledwaba, one of the lead organisers of the event. Building on last year’s success, this event promises to be a grander occasion, filled with moments of reflection, inspiration, and recognition of leaders who have dedicated their lives to uplifting communities through faith,” said Molete.
The awards will take place on Saturday at ZK Matthews Great Hall,
UNISA, with a diverse audience of dignitaries, faith-based organisations, and members of the public who have been touched by the honorees' ministries.
“Join us in celebrating the legacy, leadership, and profound impact of these great men and women of God," said Molete.
The Star