In honour of a dear Pastor and Friend, Brother Steve Francis
The very first sermon I heard Brother Steve preach made me realise that he was called of God to be a very special preacher! This was way back in 1979. I had a deep yearning for truth and desired for the Bible to become an open book to me.
With Brother Steve as my Pastor, my entire world revolved around the Word of God. It is now 42 years later and I marvel at the plan of redemption from Genesis to Revelation. Truly the Bible has now become the Open Book to me.
A stalwart who preached with such dedication, fervour and love. He preached almost daily, week in and week out, month after month and eventually years. The Word that he brought was like a Roman candle having one flame light up after the other. The flame of Revelation settled into my soul and brought the love of God into my life. This revealed Word showed me who I am in the economy of God, and helped me teach my children and overcome hurdles in life’s journey.
Brother Steve was a gallant soldier and a fire brand, holding high the torch of God’s Word, and through the years passed it over our pulpit. God in His Grace, helped me catch that light in my heart, and today my purpose as a daughter of the most high God is being fulfilled.
I am grateful to a true servant of God, a veteran, who was a loving husband, a dedicated father and grandfather, who taught his children the Word of God. A balanced individual and a keen sportsman, who displayed his principles on the sports field. A pioneer of the cross who handled people (rich and poor) with wisdom from God. Most people felt very comfortable in his presence. His cooking skills will also be missed by many.
My dear husband, Brother Siva Pillay, appreciated and loved Brother Steve and his family very much. They had a close friendship, even closer than a brother, and spent many days and nights in fellowship. We were one of the families that were with Brother Steve and Sister Jenny when they began the church in 1979. There were many times, in the early days, where we were struggling and Brother Steve would pitch up at our home with fresh bread or something that was needed. Our children grew up together, in and out of each other’s homes, and we were one big happy family.
When God took Brother Siva home in 2006, Brother Steve and Sister Jenny stood by our family and helped us through the toughest time of our lives and through the years that followed. We are forever grateful for the constant love, support and spiritual guidance throughout the years. Brother Steve helped pass on God’s wisdom through the Word, which could then be used to teach my children, as well as the Sunday School children over many years. He has left a legacy that has touched many lives across the globe.
Sister Jenny, you and your husband did a sterling work wherever you went in the world, as well as at home. Thank you and God bless you, for handing the baton of God’s Love to the Bride of the Lord Jesus Christ.
With love from Sister Jane and family
