FORMER teacher and pastor Patrick Zandile Nhlapo died on Sunday September 25 at Charlotte Maxeke Academic Hospital.

Nhlapo's death came as a shock to his family and friends and those he led in their walk with God.

His fellow believers should quote the teachings of Matthew: "Well done thy good and faithful servant, thou hast been faithful over a few things, I will make thee ruler over many things: enter thou into the joy of thy Lord," his brother Sipho Nhlapo said.

A dedicated sports master during his teaching career, he also excelled in teaching the Word of God.

This after he had completed his studies at Rhema Bible College in Randburg, Johannesburg.

Nhlapo worked with Bishop Gladstone Solomon Botwana, founder of Zoe Bible Church in Pimville, Soweto, after his ordination as a pastor in 1993.

His brother Sipho said: "This was where his good work was truly manifested."

As pastor Nhlapo was enthusiastic as Bishop Botwana's emissary - a responsibility he took on passionately.

He was later assigned to the KwaThema branch as senior pastor.

His hard work led to the church opening another branch in Langaville, Tsakane, Ekurhuleni. He became responsible for both branches where he was a certified marriage counsellor.

He was also a counsellor for Lifeline.

Nhlapo had previously taught at Orlando High School in Soweto.

As a young man, Nhlapo loved sports including rugby, swimming, tennis and soccer which he played at junior level for Orlando Pirates alongside legend Jomo Sono.

He was also a member of the uDumo Athletics Club. He also took part in several Comrade Marathons.

Nhlapo's funeral service will start at 8am at KwaThema Hall tomorrow. The cortege leaves for Brakpan Cemetery at 11am.