When Pastor Elias Kekana enrolled at Mukhanyo Theological College’s Ogies Learning Centre, he was already serving in ministry. However, he says his studies transformed not only the way he preached but also his personal walk with the Lord.
Originally from Zebediela in Limpopo, Pastor Kekana was born again in 2000 and graduated with a Diploma in Theology from Mukhanyo in 2023. Looking back, he describes his time at the College as far more than an academic journey; it was a life-changing experience.
Before studying at Mukhanyo, Pastor Kekana says that much of his preaching was based on what he had heard from other preachers and television ministries, without a clear understanding of how Scripture should be interpreted as a whole.
His decision to study theology was inspired by the late Dr T.C. Thwala, himself a Mukhanyo alumnus whose ministry had been profoundly shaped by his studies at the College. “I was interested in the way he preached. It seemed like he brought the Bible to life. His life was also an inspiration to me,” Pastor Kekana recalls. When Mukhanyo opened its Ogies Learning Centre, he knew it was the opportunity he had been waiting for.
Through his studies, Pastor Kekana gained the biblical tools to interpret Scripture faithfully and preach God’s Word with greater clarity and confidence. He says the training equipped him to understand the Bible in its proper context and to communicate its message in a way that people can understand and apply to their daily lives.
“Our ministry has never been the same after my studies,” he says. “Now I preach the sound gospel more deeply, but also more simply, so that people understand the Bible.”
The impact extended far beyond the classroom. Pastor Kekana says his own relationship with Christ deepened significantly during his time at Mukhanyo, describing the experience as transformative for both his ministry and his personal faith.
Among the modules that left the greatest impression on him was Christian Character, which challenged students to return to the foundations of Christian living and demonstrate the gospel through their daily lives. He also highlights the Biblical Interpretation module, which equipped him to study Scripture carefully and faithfully communicate God’s message.
Although he graduated in 2023, Pastor Kekana’s relationship with Mukhanyo has continued to grow. Today, he serves as a tutor at three of the College’s local learning sites in the Zebediela area of Limpopo.
Pastor Kekana also speaks warmly of the example set by Mukhanyo’s lecturers and leadership. Their humility and servant-hearted approach to ministry left a lasting impression on him and continues to shape his own ministry today.
“I was impacted by the humility of the staff and the Principal. They related to everyone as ordinary people, and that taught me to remain humble, no matter what qualifications I may have.”
Encouraging others to consider studying at Mukhanyo, Pastor Kekana says the College offers far more than an affordable theological education.
“There is a community of believers who support one another academically, spiritually and personally. Whether you face family, financial or emotional challenges, there are people who genuinely care. I truly experienced the love of Christ at Mukhanyo.”
For Pastor Kekana, the value of his studies cannot be measured by a qualification alone. The knowledge he gained, the spiritual growth he experienced and the relationships he formed continue to influence both his life and his ministry as he faithfully proclaims God’s Word.
