Death and mourning rituals in a Pentecostal church in Bolobedu South, Limpopo, South Africa

Abstract

Background: Death is an inevitable event that impacts most individuals in various ways, prompting some to participate in numerous activities in response to its effects and to seek healing or closure. Among the Balobedu people of Bolobedu South in Limpopo province, South Africa, there existed speculation regarding death and mourning customs observed by grieving members, which left some followers of a Pentecostal church, Emmanuel Assemblies, uncertain about how to engage with these rituals. They turned to the Bible as their guide to assess the situation, aiming to uphold their faith without compromise.Objective: The study’s objective was to explore the death and mourning rituals performed by the Balobedu people of Bolobedu South in Limpopo province, South Africa.Method: Utilising Osmer’s framework, the article initiated research into these rituals by purposefully selecting 39 participants from five villages, namely, Ga-Motupa, Kgwekge, Relela, Morutjie and Motlhomeng, with the aim of ascertaining the reality of the situation.Results: To develop a biblical counselling model that could assist members of the Emmanuel Assemblies Church residing in the same area in addressing death-related rituals that require their involvement.Conclusion: This model integrates Magezi’s seven pastoral care approaches and Scott and Lambert’s counselling steps.Contribution: The article contributes to the effort by offering practical solutions tailored to the specific African ministry in Pentecostal context of South Africa.