All aboard for an early sermon

CHURCH leaders have grabbed headlines with some of their controversial rituals‚ like feeding worshippers grass.

But there are also some preachers who offer their services in a less glamorous setting.

Among the hundreds of commuters who board the 6am train from Naledi to Johannesburg is Fisani Moabelo‚ one of many people who preaches on a train.

The mother of two from Protea‚ Soweto‚ conducts her session every weekday while she heads to work. “This is a calling,” Moabelo said. “I know some people are against having a woman preacher, the same as others say women are not supposed to be in leadership positions

“But we are all created the same. My responsibility is to share the knowledge and motivate others through prayer.”

The train Moabelo is traveling in is alive with soul-soothing African hymns.

Some commuters clap hands and nod their heads in rhythm with them.

With the Bible in her hand‚ Moabelo paces around the coach as she reads a few scriptures during song breaks.

A few commuters‚ mostly school children‚ are fixed on their cellphones.

But the majority of passengers are listening – and engaging with Moabelo – as shouts of “amen” can be heard.

Commuter Thulani Mabaso said: “We live in a fast-paced environment and some of us don’t have time to go to church on Sundays. “The singing puts me in a good mood.” But not every commuter likes to be part of the morning church.

“We have a lot of fake preachers out there. I avoid them,” Pamela Moloi said.

“People are using religion to make an income – that is why I don’t trust most.”

Moabelo offers a closing prayer as the train reaches Johannesburg station.

Passengers leave – no one was asked for a financial contribution. – TimesLIVE