Theology, Church-State Relations, and Organisational Structure in the Transformational Leadership of Edward Lekganyane (1926–1967)

Mookgo Solomon Kgatle

doi:10.25159/2412-4265/20265

Authors

Mookgo Solomon Kgatle University of South Africa https://orcid.org/0000-0002-9556-6597

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.25159/2412-4265/20265

Keywords:

Theology, organisational leadership, Zion Christian Church, politics, Edward Lekganyane

Abstract

Edward Lekganyane (1926–1967), named after Edward Motaung, was the second-generation leader in the Zion Christian Church (ZCC) in South Africa and the son of its founder, Engenas Lekganyane. Edward led the church for approximately 18 years, from the age of 22 until he died in 1967. This article reflects on Edward’s transformational leadership approach, particularly looking at the themes of theology, church-state relations, and organisational structure in the ZCC. The article argues that his leadership approach differs fundamentally from his predecessor’s style, Engenas Lekganyane. These differences were outlined through a literature review in qualitative research to highlight the church’s historical implications. The objective of the study was to illustrate how the ZCC transformed from charismatic leadership into a more bureaucratic leadership in ecclesiastical history. This kind of transformation is studied using Max Weber’s theory of bureaucracy. The study challenges the founder-centric view of church history, highlights the importance of theological education and organisational structure, and the value of financial independence, which cannot be ignored by church historians.

Author Biography

Mookgo Solomon Kgatle, University of South Africa

Senior Lecturer, Christian Spirituality, Church History, Missiology

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