13 May 2025 | Story: Tayron Mhlongo | Photo: Peter Masela.
3 minute read time.
On 1 May 2025, the Student Christian Organisation (SCO) of the Vaal University of Technology (VUT) joined forces with Jesus This Jesus That (JTJT) to host one of the most profound spiritual gatherings in the university’s recent history. The event, held at the expansive Isak Steyl Stadium in Vanderbijlpark, featured celebrated South African media personality Ms Rorisang Thandekiso, a dynamic force known for her work as a radio host, television presenter, musician, and passionate Christian voice.
The free entry event, accessible via online bookings, drew students from VUT, North-West University (NWU), Sedibeng TVET College, and members of the broader Vaal community. Hundreds arrived in eager anticipation for an evening of prayer, praise, and worship in the open-air stadium, creating a vibrant tapestry of faith and unity.
Midway through the service, a sudden downpour transformed the atmosphere from extraordinary to transcendent. Rather than scattering, the attendees stood firm, some with umbrellas raised, many without, allowing the rain to fall freely as worship continued.
The moment felt sacred. Voices lifted in unison above the sound of the storm as soaked worshippers remained rooted in their devotion. For many, the rain became a spiritual metaphor, described by some as a “symbolic baptism” and a “tangible sign of God’s presence.”
Ms Thandekiso, undeterred by the weather, commanded the stage with both warmth and power. “You did not come to watch,” she proclaimed, her voice echoing across the drenched stadium. “You came to participate.” Her message urged attendees to fully engage, not only with the day’s programme but with their personal journeys of faith.
Sharing her testimony of maintaining unwavering belief while navigating the complexities of the entertainment industry, she encouraged students to stand strong in their convictions regardless of professional challenges.
The day’s spiritual momentum surged with the arrival of Prophet Dr Annanius Ralekholela, who delivered a powerful message about divine purpose. “God has a plan for your life,” he declared passionately to the rain-slicked crowd. “Do not believe the lie that you will not make it. You have a purpose.”
His stirring words struck a chord with many students facing uncertainty and self-doubt. “No one is going to stop you,” he added. “The only enemy of your purpose is you.” The crowd responded with thunderous applause that mingled with the rhythmic fall of rain.
SCO President Mr Leesondria Magagula expressed heartfelt gratitude to the Residence Living and Learning Department at VUT for their support in securing the stadium.
Looking ahead, Mr Magagula shared ambitious plans for the organisation, noting, “SCO is going big this year. We are rebuilding and reclaiming the glory days.” He encouraged students to attend the upcoming exam prayer session, recognising the academic pressures many are currently facing.
Whether in spite of or because of the unexpected rain, the event succeeded in its mission of igniting faith and fostering unity. As the day drew to a close, small groups lingered in quiet prayer and conversation, reluctant to let go of the spiritual atmosphere that had enveloped the stadium.
The encounter has set a new benchmark for collaborative faith gatherings among regional institutions, with talks already underway to host similar events in the near future.
