From Hatfield Baptist Church to Hatfield Christian Church : perspectives on some historical developments during the ministry of Pastor Ed Roebert

Abstract

This article tries to uncover some of the factors that led to the phenomenal growth of the Hatfield Christian Church in Pretoria. The documentation starts with the relatively unknown early history of the church. Specific attention is given to the years between 1963 and 1984 until the separation from the Baptist Union – part of the period during which Ed Roebert pastored the church. Influences of some of the features of the charismatic movement at the time and their impact on the church are discussed. Relationships of this church with surrounding churches and specifically with Afrikaansspeaking students and communities are highlighted. The tension that arose between the church (later known as the Hatfield Christian Church) and the Baptist Union as well as the eventual division between the two bodies are also touched upon. The discussion is followed by topics suggested for further research.