Johannesburg - Former president Nelson Mandela was a modern prophet who changed the world, Bishop Ivan Abrahams said on Tuesday.
“God, you have given us a modern prophet who spoke with the voice of courage and conviction. One who transformed our nation and changed the world,” he said at Mandela's memorial service at the FNB Stadium, in Soweto.
“You gave us Nelson Mandela, who stood as the conscience of people... a beacon of life.”
Abrahams said the time was right in South Africa for Mandela's legacy to be part of every facet of people's lives.
“What brings us here today is not just grief, but love. Love for Madiba and the Mandela family.”
He said all South Africans were Mandela's progeny.
“It is not (necessary) to be a member of the ruling party, or be in government to carry the mantle of this man. It is our duty to carry his mantle.”
As Abrahams spoke, people began leaving the stadium. - Sapa