THERE is a great concern about the increase of gang violence and drug- related issues in the Northern suburbs. To address this serious issue the New Apostolic Fernwood Park district invited repented gang lords to speak to the youth recently.

Priest Brent Scharneck commented that their conversion is truly a Damascus experience. In pairs the gang members related their horrific experiences like shooting at each other, buying and selling drugs and damaging property at any cost.

“Regular visits to prison became a norm which was a nightmare each and every time,” said Rodwell Peters, former gang lord.

Priest Scharneck said the repentance was a true miracle. “One can sense their repentance is genuine when they tell how God intervened in their lives. A true miracle of God’s grace. These miracle workers endeavour to visit schools and churches to educate our youth of their life experiences,” he said.

SABC’s Fokus presenter, Keith Sayster, paid a surprise visit to the meeting to record the event.