Charl is described by many as someone who truly knows and loves his community. For him, it’s simple: life only has meaning when it is lived for others. “I am part of the people around me, and if the Lord gives me the gifts or ability to make a difference, then my life makes sense. I have learned through Badisa that it’s not about yourself, but about making a difference.”
This conviction also shapes his ministry. His congregation is older, and he emphasises that relationships are the heartbeat of the community. “House visits are the lifeblood of ministry,” he explains. “I can only live with my people if I know them and they know and trust me. Without that personal contact, we lose the closeness and trust that make it possible to serve the Lord together.”
On a journey with Badisa
Recently re-elected as Chairperson of Badisa’s Management Board, Reverend Charl van Rensburg reflects on his long journey with the organisation, his love for community, and his belief that true leadership is about service.
Charl’s path with Badisa began in 2007, when he was appointed as a delegate of the Ring of Swellendam. At the time, he says, it took years for him to fully grasp the scale of Badisa’s work. “Badisa is an incredible testimony of the church’s involvement in the world, and it makes a difference in the lives of thousands of people. To be re-elected as Chairperson is a great privilege. I am blessed with incredibly dedicated staff, and God placed Chief Executive Officers alongside me with whom I’ve built strong bonds.”
Hospitality and warmth
Hospitality is another cornerstone of Charl’s leadership. “I am a giver,” he says with a smile. “At meetings I’ll hand out little gifts, that’s my love language. It’s important to me that everyone feels at home. That is the character of our Laaiplek congregation: from the moment you walk in until you leave, you will experience warmth and sincerity. Everyone matters, and everyone counts.”
For Charl, hospitality is more than gestures or gifts. It’s about creating a sense of belonging wherever he leads.
Stories that connect
Charl often brings something of his community with him into his leadership, whether it’s a story, an emotion, or an experience. He says, “Sharing is a privilege. I am proud of my community, even when we must laugh at ourselves or feel a little embarrassed – that’s life. Together we build God’s church in Laaiplek.”
He admits with humility that he is not the academic some of his colleagues are. “Sometimes I wish I was as clever as they are,” he says. “But I am a storyteller, and through stories I try to make God’s Word and His love clear. That is how I can add value in my own way.”
Leading with responsibility
Being Chairperson of Badisa’s Management Board is a demanding responsibility, and one that Charl has carried for many years with diligence and respect. “It is a wonderful opportunity to lead Badisa, and I learn so much. It takes a lot of preparation, because the Board is full of capable, gifted people such as CA’s, lawyers and doctors. They are truly professional people. Badisa is blessed to have them.”
Charl meets regularly with the Chief Executive Officer to stay informed but is careful not to interfere on an operational level. “That is not my place,” he says. “My privilege is to lead the organisation, and that helps me to recognise structures more easily on church council level and to find solutions. Badisa shapes me to be a better congregational minister. Yes, it takes incredible amounts of time and extra work, but I wouldn’t exchange it for anything.”
Staying the course
When asked about experiences that capture the heart of Badisa’s work, Charl recalls both challenges and joys. “Badisa went through deep waters at one stage. But during a recent Moderamen meeting, when the Moderator said, ‘Badisa and the church are one,’ my heart rejoiced. Sometimes social work can feel lonely, but to hear the church’s embrace of Badisa again was powerful.”
He also remembers visiting a struggling old age home with current CEO Basie van Wyk. “Afterwards, the hugs we received, and the women saying, ‘Thank you for helping us, thank you for not forgetting us’ – that stays with you. For me, proud experiences also include when the Department of Social Development regards Badisa as a primary partner, or when the National Church Social Services Council recognises Badisa as one of the leading social services organisations in the country.”
Hope for the future
Despite financial challenges, Charl has hope for Badisa’s future. “Our relationship with the church and the government is very good. Our staff are deeply dedicated. Yes, finances will always be a challenge, but this is God’s work, and God sustains His work. Where people lose hope, Badisa can bring hope again. In no meeting are people in the community ever overlooked or forgotten. That makes it all worthwhile.”
A heart for people
When asked what makes him special as a leader, Charl answers with humility. “I always treat people with the love of Jesus, and I give people hope. The Lord made me foolish enough to believe I can make a difference, and God uses me to make that difference in the community and in my congregation. I only want to serve God and be His instrument through which He can work.”
