A view of the congregation in Pretoria Central

Apostle Wilson leading the coffin bearers after the service.  Apostle Schwerdtfeger is in the background.

Marius Schwerdtfeger

Deacon Marius Schwerdtfeger was tragically killed in a motor car accident in Polokwane on 21 July 2007. Marius, the son of Apostle Christian Schwerdtfeger and his wife, Jutta, both from Germany, was only 25 years old at the time of his death. He was a student at the University of Pretoria. District Apostle Kitching met with Apostle Schwerdtfeger on his arrival in South Africa where he was able to comfort and support him during his time of grief.

Marius was awarded an internship to South Africa, something which he enthusiastically accepted. Whilst in South Africa he started attending Pretoria Central congregation and eventually decided to make South Africa his permanent residence.

The funeral service was held in Pretoria Central congregation on 26 July 2007. District Apostle Kitching requested Apostle Eddie Wilson to conduct the funeral as he had to accompany the Chief Apostle to Graz, Austria, during this time. Marius’ mother, Jutta, was not able to attend the funeral service, however, she and her oldest son Tobias were linked to the service via Webcam from Germany. Making up for her absence, Apostle Wilson read a letter which she had written about her son. Apostle Schwerdtfeger also served along during the service. He also thanked everyone in the congregation for looking after his son as their own and for giving him stability during his stay in South Africa.

When the service was over, two of Marius’ professors and a fellow student spoke about Marius’ life, saying he was a gifted scholar and a great academic, and that he will be sorely missed.