Traditional wedding inspires Methodists robing ceremony

The would-be new members, stood humbly like traditional brides, as they took vows and listened attentively to elders handing down custom's "dos" and "don'ts". This is Methodist Church's robing process, a symbol of devotion and commitment by new members who will soon join the praying and charity group called Women's Manyano.

The Methodist Church is essentially Western - a break away from the Church of England. However, its robing ceremony has the look of a church deeply inspired by African traditions. On Easter Sunday 34 new members were being initiated into a life of prayer and charity at the Gaborone Circuit. Festivities started as early as 5am at the Broadhurst church in Gaborone where the women and their elders met in a secluded place the whole day, with the women sages entrusted to instruct the new members on how they are expected to conduct themselves in their new devotions.