Oscar Pistorius, the former Paralympic athlete convicted in connection with the fatal shooting of Reeva Steenkamp in 2013, has been observed attending a modern gospel church on the outskirts of Pretoria since his release on parole. Pistorius joined the 3ci church alongside his girlfriend, Rita Greyling, who reportedly bears a resemblance to Steenkamp. The couple’s relationship was publicly acknowledged when they attended Pistorius' sister’s wedding together last year.
The 3ci congregation is characterized by a youthful and casual atmosphere, a departure from the conservative church Pistorius attended in his youth. Members often dress in casual attire, including jeans and sports jerseys, and volunteer activity is a significant part of the community. Church members say Pistorius is actively involved, assisting with tasks such as parking and serving coffee. The church environment has been described as lively and social, with musical performances featuring guitars, drums, and singers, and a setting that resembles a concert venue.
Sources close to the church say that Pistorius’ adoption of faith began during his time in prison, where he reportedly "found Jesus." While accounts of his prison experience vary, some suggest that financial support from his family may have afforded him certain comforts, such as meals from outside suppliers, whereas others speculate that fellow inmates made his time behind bars challenging due to his conviction. Pistorius’ faith is said to have offered him emotional support as he adjusted to life after incarceration.
Parole conditions limit Pistorius’ movements; he must notify authorities if leaving his home province, and international travel remains extremely restricted. Despite these constraints, reports indicate he has spent time at a luxury beach house in Zinkwazi, near Durban.
Before his conviction, Pistorius was known in his community for a volatile temper, with testimonies during his trial citing incidents of him discharging a firearm publicly. Text messages introduced as evidence revealed possessiveness and jealousy in his relationship with Steenkamp, including a message from rugby player Francois Hougaard that allegedly triggered a jealous reaction.
On the tenth anniversary of Steenkamp’s death, her father, Barry Steenkamp, publicly expressed a desire for Pistorius to remain incarcerated for life. He maintained that Pistorius never admitted to shooting his daughter intentionally, consistently claiming he mistook her for an intruder. Barry Steenkamp, who has since died, also shared that confronting Pistorius in prison had been futile, as the athlete stood by his original account. The trial and its aftermath reportedly placed significant financial and emotional strain on the Steenkamp family, who some observers say continue to live with the consequences of the tragedy.
Pistorius’ current life appears to be focused on rebuilding relationships within his community and faith, though his past continues to influence public perception and personal dynamics.