c. 1742
Schmidt baptises Khoikhoi converts
In about 1742, Georg Schmidt baptised five Khoikhoi converts at Baviaanskloof, prompting the Cape's Dutch Reformed authorities to challenge his authority to administer the sacrament.
View in timelineIn about 1742, Schmidt baptised five Khoikhoi converts at the Baviaanskloof mission after teaching them Christian doctrine and reading. The baptisms prompted the Cape's Dutch Reformed clergy and Council of Policy to question whether a Moravian missionary, who lacked authorisation from the established church, could administer the sacrament. Schmidt was instructed to stop baptising while the matter was referred to church authorities in the Netherlands.
Significance
The baptisms made Baviaanskloof a centre of dispute over church jurisdiction, missionary authority and Khoikhoi participation in Christian institutions.
Why it matters
The baptisms brought Moravian mission practice, Khoikhoi religious participation and Dutch Reformed control of recognised Christian ministry into direct conflict.
Disputed interpretations
The baptisms are well attested, but the precise date and the formal basis of church opposition require qualification.
Perspective notes
Schmidt's mission records describe the converts' instruction and baptism, while Cape Council and church records preserve the jurisdictional dispute. The event therefore involved Khoikhoi participation in the mission as well as competing Moravian and Dutch Reformed claims to religious authority.