A large white cross left standing in the Franschhoek Valley has given hope to South Africans after wildfires continue to burn through the Western Cape.
The cross – a symbol of the Christian faith – was erected by the local Dutch Reformed Church.
FRANSCHHOEK CROSS STANDS AMID WILDFIRES
On Facebook, an image of a large white cross on the Matoppie Mountain in Franschhoek has gone viral.
In an image that has been reshared thousands of times, the outdoor structure is surrounded by smouldering fires. Beneath it lies burnt and charred grass.
Facebook user Lyle Simons, a resident of Franschhoek, shared of the remarkable sighting” “Even in the middle of devastation, the cross still stands — a powerful reminder that hope has not been destroyed. While the fire consumed everything around it, the cross remained untouched.
“Franschhoek, may this be a sign that light, faith, and restoration will rise again from the ashes”.
Even in the middle of devastation, the cross still stands — a powerful reminder that hope has not been destroyed. While…
Posted by Lyle F Simons on Saturday 17 January 2026
In the comments section, there were mixed reactions from South Africans. But while a few doubted that any supernatural occurrence was at play, others remained hopeful and inspired.
Tiaan Papier: “A gentle, yet significant reminder that He is in control 🙏🏾”
Sylvia Bell: “This is God…in the midst of any storm”
Merryl Streak: “If I wanted to illustrate the meaning of hope, this is it.”
BEACON OF HOPE
The white cross, built by the local Franschhoek Dutch Reformed Church, lights up at night with the flip of a switch.
It is lit on Ash Wednesday, a Christian holy day marking the start of Lent, the time of fasting before Easter.
Church personnel and congregants journey up the hill to light it up as a beacon of hope to residents.
Aswoensdag: Uitstappie na kruis vir stil word en liggies aansit
Posted by NG Kerk Franschhoek on Wednesday 26 February 2020
