Bathwell had much to show me, however, and he was eager to begin. But he is also church planter, advisor or friend to several other faith communities, and we are out to visit them. Pastor Bathwell Mketsu , left, celebrates new growth and ministry at Zolami Baptist Church with James, a church member. Bathwell selects peanuts and raisins, potato chips, peppermint candies and a Coke. We drive through miles of hilly green vineyards splayed out like a carpet beneath rugged mountains.
Clouds hug the mountaintops, shaped like swirls of frosting by the prevailing winds.
The road twists through the Hugenot Tunnel and on through a grassy veld as we wend our way northward. Between snacks, Bathwell tells me about the work at Zolani, two hours away. There is no need for you to come back to this place. We cannot give you money for petrol. I will spend my own money for petrol and for food.