The International Pentecost Holiness Church (IPHC) hosted its largest mass wedding ceremony to date on Easter Sunday, bringing together around 3,000 individuals for nuptials. Many of these were polygamous unions. The event took place at the church’s headquarters in Heidelberg, east of Johannesburg.
A Growing Tradition
Founded in the early 1960s, the IPHC is an African-initiated church that blends Pentecostal Christianity with local cultural practices. Among these traditions is polygamy, which is legally recognised in South Africa when conducted under customary marriage laws.
“Polygamy is not only embraced but held in high regard in the church,” said Vusi Ndala, a spokesperson for the IPHC. “It’s an expression of both faith and tradition for many of our members.”
The church incorporates mass weddings into its annual Easter festivities, as well as during events in December and in September to commemorate the church’s founding.
Polygamous Unions Highlighted
This year’s record turnout, according to Ndala, was due to a large number of men marrying multiple wives in a single ceremony. “Some of the grooms are marrying their sixth or seventh wives,” he said. “Others are marrying more than one bride at a time.”
The ceremony attracted thousands of attendees, with couples queuing, dancing, and processing into the large, dome-shaped church building that can accommodate up to 60,000 people. Brides were dressed in traditional white gowns, while grooms wore white suits and red ties.
One observer noted: “A man was seen walking with his wife and two of his brides during the celebrations, which shows how common polygamous unions are within the congregation.”
Legal and Cultural Context
Polygamous marriages in South Africa are protected under the Recognition of Customary Marriages Act, provided they are registered and adhere to traditional practices. The IPHC aligns its ceremonies with this framework, positioning polygamy as a continuation of both faith-based and cultural commitments.
The IPHC, established by African founders, distinguishes itself from missionary-led churches by embedding local customs into its religious practice. Its approach has garnered a broad following across the country, particularly in rural and peri-urban areas.
In 2023, the church married approximately 400 couples during its Easter ceremony. Many of these were polygamous weddings. This year’s figure of 3,000 participants marks a significant increase, which church officials attribute to the growing popularity and communal significance of the event.
“We expect these numbers to keep growing,” said Ndala. “It’s a celebration of faith, family, and cultural heritage.”
Ceremony Details
Held in a dome-shaped church building capable of seating up to 60,000 people, the event featured hundreds of polygamous couples dressed in traditional wedding attire. Brides wore white gowns, while grooms wore white suits with red ties. Participants were provided with bridal flowers, food, and water as part of the proceedings.
“This is not just a ceremony; it’s a structured and organised event,” said another church elder. “Each couple is prepared spiritually and emotionally in advance.”
About the Church
The International Pentecost Holiness Church remains one of the largest African-initiated churches in South Africa, with a substantial following. It continues to be led by a central authority and maintains strong roots in both religious doctrine and community tradition.
“We’ve upheld this tradition for decades,” said the church spokesperson. “It will continue to be part of how we observe sacred occasions like Easter.”