We came to the conclusion that many South Africans and their forefathers (rich and poor, white and black, etc.) received in a direct and indirect manner what they should not have received; and that many South Africans and their forefathers were on the opposite side of this “equation”, by having something taken from them “unjustly”. We realized that most of those who unjustly received may never be willing to participate in a process of personal restitution; and that most of those who suffered may never personally and directly receive restitution gifts. However, we acknowledged that there is a remnant in South Africa who will be moved by the Holy Spirit to participate in this process, and who should be encouraged and guided along. Potential givers should be motivated to give. Those who feel “unjustly” affected should be helped not to have unrealistic expectations.

There are three parties involved in the church led restitution process. All Christians, irrespective of their background, should be encouraged to be givers ; in the restitution process, the decision to give ultimately has to be made by the individual or family before God. Recipients should be those in need, and those who can prove to the facilitator that they suffered an injustice related to the particular gift. The facilitator can be an individual or group, whose responsibilities are:

- to communicate the restitution message;

- to receive the restitution gifts;

- to help both the giver and receiver (where applicable) to receive redemption/healing from the past;

- to give restitution gifts to recipients;

- to help both givers and receivers to give or receive both graciously and wisely; and

- to generally administer/facilitate the restitution process.

We understand the Bible to indicate that church led restitution is essential. We acknowledge the South African reality of presently still having two churches – a poor/black church and a rich/white church. We know that Jesus passionately wants us to be one (John 17). We trust that church led restitution will play an important part to make us truly one Church.

“Let no debt remain outstanding, except the continuing debt to love one another …” (Romans 13:8).