A sold-out auditorium, filled with reverence, prayer, and unified worship, set the stage for Altar Moments — a spiritually significant gathering hosted by Friends in Sync (FIS) at the Church of Pentecost in Richmond Hill, Gqeberha on the March 28 2026.
The event drew young people from various churches and denominations, united by a shared focus on worship, biblical teaching, and spiritual renewal. Organisers emphasised that the gathering was not intended as a performance platform, but as a sacred space for personal encounters with God.
“We wanted people to encounter God for themselves,” said FIS member Lelethu George in an interview with Gateway News. “This is not about us, but about putting God’s Word out there and raising the banner of heaven.”
Throughout the evening, the atmosphere was marked by deep reflection, heartfelt prayer, and collective worship. Many attendees were visibly moved — some to tears — while others engaged in spontaneous prayer, underscoring what participants described as a tangible sense of God’s presence.
A central highlight of the programme was the ministry of the Word delivered by Dr Martin Appiah, senior pastor of the Church of Pentecost in Gqeberha. Preaching from 1 Kings 18:32, he reflected on the rebuilding of the altar, urging believers to restore their spiritual foundations and return to sincere worship and obedience. He also spoke of spiritual “chains being broken” during the service — an assertion many attendees later affirmed as deeply impactful.
The programme was directed by Thato Moshoeshoe, whose spiritually sensitive leadership ensured a seamless flow. A spontaneous moment early in the evening saw him begin singing You Are All That Matters, which was taken up powerfully by audience member Sinqobile Sandile — shifting the atmosphere and deepening the worship experience.
New members of the movement, Khanyisa and Zukisa Yumata described Friends in Sync as a welcoming space for young people seeking spiritual growth. Long-standing member Sinomtha Mxothwa, who has been part of this movement for five years, highlighted its commitment to unity across denominational lines.
Soprano vocalist, Lisa Phaphu emphasised the group’s ministry-driven identity: “What we have is not merely talent, but a gift from God, which we use to serve and minister to others.”
Fellow member, Londokuhle Nobebe, described the evening as a confirmation of what the group had prayed for. Her moving musical ministry drew strong engagement from the audience, reinforcing the deeply spiritual tone of the gathering.
Behind the scenes, organisers acknowledged the extensive preparation involved. Pastor Donald noted the significant time and effort invested, while Nombini Gxumisa spoke of the sacrifices made — including long hours, prayer, and fasting — which she said made the successful turnout especially rewarding.
Guest artist, Sibahle Gush, also contributed a powerful worship segment that resonated strongly with attendees.
Audience members echoed the positive sentiment. Phila Ntleko, noted the near-capacity attendance, while Sinothando Ngxili praised both the worship and preaching as exceeding expectations. Others, including relatives of some of the group members, Yaliwe Papu and Joyce Keyise, commended the young participants for their dedication and spiritual maturity. Noxhasa Yumata, mother of two performers, expressed gratitude for the role the movement continues to play in her daughters’ lives.
According to organisers, the success of Altar Moments is measured not only by attendance, but by the depth of spiritual engagement and the testimonies that followed. Reports of renewal, encouragement, and personal transformation emerged in the aftermath of the event.
The gathering also opened doors for new partnerships with organisations such as Royal Funerals and Loving Hands Private Clinic, with further collaborations under consideration.
Looking ahead, Friends in Sync aims to expand its reach through strategic partnerships, digital engagement, and future gatherings. Discussions are already underway to establish Altar Moments as a recurring event — while maintaining its core focus on authentic worship and spiritual integrity.
Co-Founders Khanyiso Dyasi and Sithembiso Gxumisa reaffirmed that their mission remains unchanged: to create spaces that prioritise the presence of God and foster unity within the broader Christian community.
The movement continues to welcome church invitations and hopes to extend its ministry beyond Gqeberha to communities across South Africa — and beyond.
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