About us
A church family in Toti
Who we are, and who leads us.
Who we are
Grace Toti is a Baptist church in Amanzimtoti. We meet twice on a Sunday, read and preach through books of the Bible, and try to live as a congregation that knows and looks after one another.
You don't need to know anyone to come. Arrive a few minutes before 9:00 and we'll show you in.
Our elders
The elders shepherd and oversee the church.
Jonathan Tempies
Jonathan was born in Cape Town but spent most of his life in Johannesburg. After graduating from Wits, he worked for seven years as an electrical engineer, and during this time he met his wonderful wife, Christy.
Having seen the great need for preaching in South African churches, Jonathan trained for ministry at The Master’s Seminary in Los Angeles, California. He and his family then returned to South Africa, where he served as pastor of Calvary Baptist Church in Richards Bay for over six years. In June 2023, Jonathan joined the pastoral team at Grace.
Stephen Mew
Stephen, originally from Johannesburg, spent his formative years in Zimbabwe. He graduated from Wits in 2012 and worked for five years as an electrical engineer in Johannesburg.
He married Lauren, and in 2018 began theological studies at The Master’s Seminary in Los Angeles. After completing his studies, Stephen returned to South Africa in 2021 to serve on the pastoral team at Grace.
Richard Allkins
Richard has been a member of Grace since 2000. First as a deacon and later as an elder, he has led home Bible studies and preached at Grace and at a number of sister churches. He also headed up the Behold Israel ministry in South Africa for its 2018 and 2022 tours.
Richard and Jean have raised three sons and have been blessed with five grandchildren.
Ludwig Odendaal
Ludwig joined Grace in 2016, after attending the men’s Bible study for several months. He has served in various teaching roles, including the junior and senior youth, and preaches regularly at other churches in our fellowship.
Ludwig and his wife, Jess, have two daughters.
What we believe
We hold the Bible to be the inspired Word of God and the supreme standard for all we believe and do. Our full doctrinal statement sets out what we believe about God, the gospel, the church and the Christian life.