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The 1949 succession split: Star and Dove
The division of the ZCC into the Star and Dove branches followed the death of founder Engenas Lekganyane in 1948. This page describes the documented sequence of events.
The dispute
On Engenas Lekganyane's death in 1948, the question of succession divided the church. A formal selection process held at Moria in 1949, supervised by the authorities, resulted in Edward Lekganyane leading the main body of the church. Sources differ on the precise identities of the rival candidates, but consistently record that the outcome was contested.
Formation of the Dove branch
Engenas's younger son Joseph Lekganyane rejected the outcome and established a separate branch in September 1949; sources record his installation as leader of his faction on 15 September 1949. This branch became known as the ZCC of the Dove, while the main body became identified by the star badge.
Two churches
The split produced two enduring branches distinguished chiefly by their badges, star versus dove. Reputable accounts describe their doctrinal differences as small while noting a strong historical rivalry. Both have since grown into very large movements, with the Star branch generally reported as the larger.
Described factually and respectfully from documented sources. Corrections welcome.