The Pacaltsdorp 'Klipkerk' formed the perfect backdrop for this ceremony as this church was built 200 years ago by missionary Rev Charles Pacalt.
The rich history of this magnificent church, originally built from stone, yellowwood, glass and clay, is palpable and the vast historical knowledge of Dr Aubrey Douglas, Chairman of the Pacaltsdorp 200 Committee, easily transported the listener back in time.
Dr Meyer spoke fondly of the bicentennial festival saying that it is not often that a town in South Africa can boast about being in existence for 200 years.
He further spoke of Rev Pacalt who had encouraged the two most important elements needed to build a successful community, namely, education and workmanship, saying that today's communities countrywide could take a leaf out of this missionary's book.
"Look at this church for instance. It was built 200 years ago and here it stands. R50-billion is currently needed to repair the RDP houses that were built in 1994.
We seem to have lost our workmanship over the years," said the minister. He further referred back to the days when children were disciplined by their parents and lived happy lives.
In closing, Dr Meyer beseeched the two festival committees, both municipal and church, to consider closing a main road in Pacaltsdorp to hold a soup evening.
"I have recently attended such an evening in my neighbourhood and was astounded at how easily people cast their baggage aside and embraced one another's cultures.
Portugese, Muslims, Afrikaans, coloured and many more cultures soon forgot their baggage and had a wonderful time," said Dr Meyer.
He asked that through this festival, the community experiences this 'cultural warmth' and thanked both committees for promoting social inclusion during all festivities.
Showing off the certificate for social inclusion awarded to the Pacaltsdorp 200 festival committee are at the back: Isaac Felix, community participation; Middle, from left: Pieter Pepler, George Municipality; Pastor Jannie Horn, Chairman of Pacaltsdorp Fraternal; Mr G de Rock, Education and Mr E America, Sport. Front from left: Dr Ivan Meyer; Julian Klaasen; Dr Aubrey Douglas, Chairman of Pacaltsdorp 200 Committee and Jeremy van Wyk, Culture House. Photo: Fran Kirsten
