Turning to the future of the Assemblies of God, the General Superintendent of South Africa Assemblies of God, Rev. Lebelo called for a balance between preserving the Church’s spiritual heritage and embracing the energy, skills and innovation of younger generations.
Speaking on church doctrine on Friday, October 16, at the closing ceremony of the 2026 World Assemblies of God Congress in Accra, he said the Church needed to remain rooted in the faith and traditions of previous generations while creating room for younger members to contribute meaningfully to its growth.
“As Assemblies of God, yes, we need the roots. The old-time religion, faith of our fathers, we need the roots. But with roots only, we will become monuments,” he said.
He likened the younger generation to wings that could help the Church move forward, arguing that tradition and innovation should complement each other rather than compete.
Rev. Lebelo, who humorously described himself as belonging to the “Born Before Technology” generation, said he would not allow his generation’s limitations with technology to hinder the Church’s progress.
“I’m going to allow the next gen to bring in their technology to take the church to another level,” he said.
He also reminded young people that their contribution should not come at the expense of the wisdom and experience of older members, emphasising the need for mutual dependence between generations.
“Young, next generation, you cannot do without the old generation. We’ve got the roots. You need the younger ones to actually run with you,” he said.
Rev. Lebelo urged both older and younger members to work together, placing Christ at the centre of their unity, upholding fairness and distinguishing between essential beliefs and methods that could be adapted to meet changing needs.
He concluded by calling for a Church that remains faithful to its foundations while welcoming new approaches that support its mission and future growth.
By Theresa Kpordzo//Newswatchgh.com
