Today was our last full day here in South Africa...which means this is our last blog post as well :( Tonight we had a cultural night with the students at the Academy where they performed some of their native dances and songs. We also ate some food native to South Africa, which included chicken feet and "ostrich eyes". It was a perfect night of laughter and joy as we close out our time here in South Africa. It's hard to grasp that our time here is actually done. That the two weeks we have prepared for have come and gone in the blink of an eye. Although it will certainly be difficult to leave tomorrow, we have all been filled with countless stories that will reside in our hearts forever. We will carry the names of the students, their smiles, and their stories with us as we return. Our prayer is that as we return, we would share the experiences that we have had here in South Africa. That our stories would inspire others. That they would bring much glory to the name of God. We leave in remembrance of what God has done here in South Africa. We leave in remembrance of what He will continue to do here in South Africa. We thank all of you who have been following the blog and praying for us these past two weeks. The support that you have given has been immeasurable in value.
Jessica here... I am the tail end of this blog, which is being written at the tail end of our trip. Ironic much? My sad attempt at comedy is a ploy to make you think that I am not sad about leaving but it cannot fool you for long. If you were sitting next to me right now, you would see the fog on my glasses, as my eyes hold back tears in order to clearly see the computer screen. We just ended out last debrief and it has me on the edge of heartbreak. I cannot imagine getting on a plane tomorrow and I will not until I have to. God has been so alive to me the past two weeks and I know that feeling won't go away, but being here will. Yes, I have taken pictures and will probably have them posted all over Facebook and my room but it won't be enough. Tonight we had cultural night with the kids, where as Ryan explained above, they danced for us, sang traditional songs, made us traditional food (and yes I did eat a whole chicken foot) and then danced with us to worship songs around the bonfire out in the field. If you could only hear their voices when they praise Jesus' name.... it is like the whisper of God in your ear, it brings a smile to your face and a warmth to your heart that is undescribable. They are so vivacious and spiritual when singing, it encourages you to want to sing and dance, up and down the isles at RockHarbor. It was so amazing to see a different side of their culture, especially through the children we have come to know and love.
If I had to choose one word to describe my experience here in the past two weeks it would be: MOVING. This trip has touched all of us here so deeply. God has rooted a unity and passion in our team and we have become the body of Christ together, here in South Africa. We have seen God move immensly in the children here too. They all have gone through some of the hardest things anyone can ever go through in their life. They have been abandoned, hurt, broken and devestated by disease, and through it all they have come out strong. They have such hard exteriors, which is compleatly understandable for what they have experienced, but to have them open us to us while we are hear and to have them tell us that they see God in us and that they thank Him for brining us here, is something that will forever stay in our hearts. God is so evident in their lives through the way they love and have faith. We praise the name of our Father God, Abba, and thank Him for everything we have gotten to do here, while serving Him in South Africa. We would not be here if not for the blood He shed on the cross for us and we are so very thankful. Especially thankful for the opprotunity to have come here. Thank you for following along on the blog and for all the prayers and support you have given. Please continue to pray for Bridges of Hope and the students and staff. Pray that as we leave tomorrow, that everyone here will be comfoted by the fact that, even though WE may be leaving, God is not and He is always here. Please also pray for the staff and that the kids will be open to them once we leave. They work so hard here and are doing it all for the glory of the kingdom.
Again, thank you for following along and we all will see you soon!
Love,
Jess, Ryan and the RockHarbor Team :)
Friday, August 20, 2010
Thursday, August 19, 2010
God's Thumbprint
Majestic isn't it? Lions are such beautiful creatures and we can't help but notice how God's thumbprint is all over creation. He is so infinite and full of wonder. We got to visit the Aquila Game Reserve today, as a team, and we had such a blast. Even though we were up early and the day started of rainy and wet... God provided and gave us a beautiful afternoon. We took the day off from the Academy and Sweet Home to experience a little bit of rural South Africa and just enjoyed every second of it.
This is Josh's take on the day :)
Josh: Today after we came back from the Aquila Game Reserve we had a talent show with the students here at Bridges. The students and our Rock Harbor group performed many different acts like poems, songs, dances, skits, balloon animals and card tricks. One of the skits that was very moving. It was about a young girl who was raped and beaten by her step father who threatened to kill her. While this was a painful drama to watch, it gave the students a way to express themselves in a way that they might otherwise not have been able to do so. Clearly many of them have experienced profound pain in their lives. Please keep praying for students that God will use their pain for his glory.
Wednesday, August 18, 2010
As we near the end of our mission we are all swelling with stories of how God is moving here in South Africa. Stories of Academy students opening up to share their lives. Stories of children in Sweet Home singing worship songs with reckless enthusiasm. Stories of students choosing to wait until marriage to have sex. Stories of CHE's learning life changing skills. Stories of overwhelming joy. All stories that form into the larger story of God.
Erika and Kacie have volunteered to share their stories from today...
Erika:
Dear Diary,
(Just kidding.)
In Sweet Home today, we celebrated our final day of VBS. Despite the grey and gloomy weather, our experience was beautiful: We recapped the entire Big God Story, and ended with a message on how God offers each of us a part to play in His redemptive plan. Lastly, we were given a chance to lay hands on the students in prayer. Each of us held dozens of students in our arms and pleaded for God's blessing over their lives. It was an incredibly powerful and memorable moment. My prayer is that our relationship with Sweet Home would be longlasting, such that we'd be granted opportunties to see how God has practically worked in their lives. May God keep these children within His will.
Before we left, I pulled aside one of my favorite students from the week: Sinethemba (which in Xhosa means "We have hope.") He is such a beautiful, smart, outgoing and loving child--and probably had the best English out of any of the students. I noticed he had worn the same outfit day after day. "Sinthemba, is that the only outfit you have?" I asked. He nodded sadly, looking away. I continued, "But what about your parents? Where is your mom and dad?" He told me they were gone, and that he had no one to care for him. I held him tightly in my arms and began to pray for God's provision and love to flow over him. It grives me that he's all alone. Yet, I know that I must trust God's love to be infinitely greater and more powerful than my own.
Afterwards, a few of us ventured to one woman's home to pray. As she lovingly welcomed us into her home, we each were shocked at her living situation. She had to physically lift her door up from the hinges in order to usher us in. The entire house was but one room; no larger than eight feet by eight feet. The walls and floors were covered in trash and spare pieces of linoleum. Her small bed occupied half the house, while a small table filled with pots left nearly no extra room. The six of us stood shoulder to shoulder, barely fitting inside.
She began to indulge us in her story: her nearly three year old son (who still had not learned to walk) was in the hospital severely ill with TB. He was so sick that he couldn't be touched without inflicting pain. She wept as we gathered around to pray for her and her son.
It's always difficult to be in Sweet Home, and it never seems to get easier. Never. Not even a little.
Most the time, I find that it's less difficult to witness poverty--because those we come in contact with often seem so joyful after spending just a little time with them. We can play, dance and sing with kids and see them light up. We can pray with the community and help instill hope in their hearts. I find that often the physical poverty isn't the issue that grives my heart. It's the conviction I feel about the way I live my life back home that breaks me. At the end of the day, I must confess that I am completely and utterly enslaved to the systems of Orange County. We are so filthy rich. And to what benefit?
In Luke 18, a young, rich and powerful man approaches Jesus asking how to inherit the Kingdom of God. Jesus instructs him to obey the commandments, to which the man rejoices because he had successfully done so. That is, until Jesus throws a curveball:
Luke 18:22 says, "When Jesus heard this, he said to him, "You still lack one thing. Sell everything you have and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven. Then come, follow me."
Sadly, the man walks away. He refuses to rebuke his wealth. He walks away from Jesus, and denies the Kingdom of God.
It worries me that I'm not much different than the young, rich man. I have to admit that I would really struggle with Jesus telling me to sell everything I have. Ultimately, I can go along with much of American Christianity and live a good Christian, moralistic life. However, Jesus makes it pretty clear: if I can't abandon my wealth for His glory, and for the benefit of His people, am I really following Him at all?
I don't want to have a false faith. I want to be someone who follows Christ with radical abandonment. Yet, when surroudened by complete and utter desolation it's painful to examine your walk with Christ. I think we would each admit that we could all be doing a bit more.
I don't mean this post to discourage or depress you--but to make us all think a little bit more about the way we live. What things do we wrongly bestow significance or importance on?
Pray for me, and for our team as we get home. I'm sure the culture shock will be a challenge for each of us. Pray for pure and total obedience; that we may glorify our Lord.
Blessings! I miss all of you back home!
Here are thoughts from Kacie:
Our time here at the the academy has been incredible for me. From day one I have felt this peace in my heart and complete feeling of being home here at the farm. I loved these kids long before I knew them and after having spendt time with them it feels impossible for me to leave...especially after they have shared with me their stories over the past few days. A few girls come to mind...each story different and none any less heartbreaking than the other. I can't help but admire their resolve and wisdom beyond their years from their life events. My prayer coming to Africa was for God to break my heart for what breaks His and he is definitely following through in my request. The students here are precious and beautiful and their smiles fill my heart with more joy than I have ever experienced. Everyday I have spent time with them and everyday, in small moments, I see Christ in them.
Today I did a prayer walk around the academy grounds in preparation for day 3 of our choose to wait abstinance program. While praying over the students and praying to God for clarity of how to facilitate and lead discussion today I was overwhelmed with God telling me that these kids are His and He is using us to begin the healing process for many. Choose to wait has been a place where brokenness has come to the surface and I think it has become about more than purity. It has become a place to examine who God is and what it means to follow Christ and it has been incredible to watch it unfold.
Our three day program had a theme of God's Love.
Day 1: Because of His love we are called to be holy. We talked about God as holy and how he calls us to be holy in our lives. Parker and Erin shared their story and defined the good plan of marriage that God has for us. We've discovered a pain-filled portrayl of marriage here and many students don't want to get married. We sought to show them how God's plan for marriage was so unlike what they have seen and know from their families and townships.
Day 2: Because of His love we are forgiven by His grace. Jason, Lailanie, and I gave our testimonies and each one was perfectly woven into the idea of God has savior, redeemer, and healer. Since then countless students have come to me and thanked me for sharing and have told me small moments from their own lives that bring them pain and how my testimony touched their heart. God is so good! He takes my story and the pain I went through and uses it to stir in these students' hearts and bring forth what He needs them to accept and then allow Him to heal. I am so humbled that He is using me in this way. Each story I hear is heartbreaking, but these kids give me such hope in God. He has shown up in a mighty way.
Day 3: Because of His love we can find strength in Jesus and walk with him daily. Today we had a question and answer session that got at the heart of how we can practically lead pure lives everyday. We discussed predecision-making for healthy boundaries in relationships, divorce, HIV/AIDS, etc. It was an awesome day. We decided to hold a girl session and a boy session so that we could get to the heart of the matter in a safe and comfortable way. It proved to be key because the kids really opened up. Some girls, however, seemed very bitter towards being in the group today. They appeared to want nothing to do with the conversation, wouldn't make eye contact, or answer questions. These are the same few girls who have appeared to think purity is important in the other two days of choose to wait. Today showed me that appearences are deceiving and even if they don't look like they are listening, they are. God is still stirring in their hearts. After homework time tonight one of these girls gave me a note and I thought I would share a few sentences from it for you (grammar and all :) ).
"Hi kacie. I am very glad God sent you to Africa and share he's word with us. And Thanks For sharing your life story to us. It meant a lot to me, that I'm not the only one who have problems on earth, like everybody have problems in their life and struggle a lot. That thing wait and choose it meant a lot to us and it encourage us that, if we did some mistakes in the past and ask forgiveness to God he will Forgive you. When I think about that I think about this verses. Psalm 65:3 "Though we are overwhelming by our sins, you forgive them all." Psalm 86:5. "O Lord, you are so good, so ready to forgive, so full of unfailing love For all who ask For your help." These verse means a lot to me. if you would love to hear my story i would like to come and tell you. I love you so much, Kacie."
Praise God for his unfailing and forgiving love. I am so humbled to be used by him and so encouraged by the work He is doing in the hearts of the kids, like this little girl. God's presence is so real here and I feel Him moving and working actively everyday. The students have captured my heart and I have such a passion to serve them. It will be very difficult to return home.
Choose to wait has gone very well. I think God has moved beyond the issue of purity and encompassed it in His larger desire for the hearts of all the kids. Some are so lost and broken and these past three days I've seen God in the way that they have opened up and began to heal. Please pray for the kids here as they struggle through acknowledging their hurts and I pray that as we leave, their openness continues and they allow God to continue to work in their hearts.
Goodnight everyone! It's 12:20 am here and I have to be up in 5 hours because we are going on a game drive and leaving the academy at 6:30 am! I pray that we see some Big 5 animals!!! Love and miss you all! God bless!
Erika and Kacie have volunteered to share their stories from today...
Erika:
Dear Diary,
(Just kidding.)
In Sweet Home today, we celebrated our final day of VBS. Despite the grey and gloomy weather, our experience was beautiful: We recapped the entire Big God Story, and ended with a message on how God offers each of us a part to play in His redemptive plan. Lastly, we were given a chance to lay hands on the students in prayer. Each of us held dozens of students in our arms and pleaded for God's blessing over their lives. It was an incredibly powerful and memorable moment. My prayer is that our relationship with Sweet Home would be longlasting, such that we'd be granted opportunties to see how God has practically worked in their lives. May God keep these children within His will.
Before we left, I pulled aside one of my favorite students from the week: Sinethemba (which in Xhosa means "We have hope.") He is such a beautiful, smart, outgoing and loving child--and probably had the best English out of any of the students. I noticed he had worn the same outfit day after day. "Sinthemba, is that the only outfit you have?" I asked. He nodded sadly, looking away. I continued, "But what about your parents? Where is your mom and dad?" He told me they were gone, and that he had no one to care for him. I held him tightly in my arms and began to pray for God's provision and love to flow over him. It grives me that he's all alone. Yet, I know that I must trust God's love to be infinitely greater and more powerful than my own.
Afterwards, a few of us ventured to one woman's home to pray. As she lovingly welcomed us into her home, we each were shocked at her living situation. She had to physically lift her door up from the hinges in order to usher us in. The entire house was but one room; no larger than eight feet by eight feet. The walls and floors were covered in trash and spare pieces of linoleum. Her small bed occupied half the house, while a small table filled with pots left nearly no extra room. The six of us stood shoulder to shoulder, barely fitting inside.
She began to indulge us in her story: her nearly three year old son (who still had not learned to walk) was in the hospital severely ill with TB. He was so sick that he couldn't be touched without inflicting pain. She wept as we gathered around to pray for her and her son.
It's always difficult to be in Sweet Home, and it never seems to get easier. Never. Not even a little.
Most the time, I find that it's less difficult to witness poverty--because those we come in contact with often seem so joyful after spending just a little time with them. We can play, dance and sing with kids and see them light up. We can pray with the community and help instill hope in their hearts. I find that often the physical poverty isn't the issue that grives my heart. It's the conviction I feel about the way I live my life back home that breaks me. At the end of the day, I must confess that I am completely and utterly enslaved to the systems of Orange County. We are so filthy rich. And to what benefit?
In Luke 18, a young, rich and powerful man approaches Jesus asking how to inherit the Kingdom of God. Jesus instructs him to obey the commandments, to which the man rejoices because he had successfully done so. That is, until Jesus throws a curveball:
Luke 18:22 says, "When Jesus heard this, he said to him, "You still lack one thing. Sell everything you have and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven. Then come, follow me."
Sadly, the man walks away. He refuses to rebuke his wealth. He walks away from Jesus, and denies the Kingdom of God.
It worries me that I'm not much different than the young, rich man. I have to admit that I would really struggle with Jesus telling me to sell everything I have. Ultimately, I can go along with much of American Christianity and live a good Christian, moralistic life. However, Jesus makes it pretty clear: if I can't abandon my wealth for His glory, and for the benefit of His people, am I really following Him at all?
I don't want to have a false faith. I want to be someone who follows Christ with radical abandonment. Yet, when surroudened by complete and utter desolation it's painful to examine your walk with Christ. I think we would each admit that we could all be doing a bit more.
I don't mean this post to discourage or depress you--but to make us all think a little bit more about the way we live. What things do we wrongly bestow significance or importance on?
Pray for me, and for our team as we get home. I'm sure the culture shock will be a challenge for each of us. Pray for pure and total obedience; that we may glorify our Lord.
Blessings! I miss all of you back home!
Here are thoughts from Kacie:
Our time here at the the academy has been incredible for me. From day one I have felt this peace in my heart and complete feeling of being home here at the farm. I loved these kids long before I knew them and after having spendt time with them it feels impossible for me to leave...especially after they have shared with me their stories over the past few days. A few girls come to mind...each story different and none any less heartbreaking than the other. I can't help but admire their resolve and wisdom beyond their years from their life events. My prayer coming to Africa was for God to break my heart for what breaks His and he is definitely following through in my request. The students here are precious and beautiful and their smiles fill my heart with more joy than I have ever experienced. Everyday I have spent time with them and everyday, in small moments, I see Christ in them.
Today I did a prayer walk around the academy grounds in preparation for day 3 of our choose to wait abstinance program. While praying over the students and praying to God for clarity of how to facilitate and lead discussion today I was overwhelmed with God telling me that these kids are His and He is using us to begin the healing process for many. Choose to wait has been a place where brokenness has come to the surface and I think it has become about more than purity. It has become a place to examine who God is and what it means to follow Christ and it has been incredible to watch it unfold.
Our three day program had a theme of God's Love.
Day 1: Because of His love we are called to be holy. We talked about God as holy and how he calls us to be holy in our lives. Parker and Erin shared their story and defined the good plan of marriage that God has for us. We've discovered a pain-filled portrayl of marriage here and many students don't want to get married. We sought to show them how God's plan for marriage was so unlike what they have seen and know from their families and townships.
Day 2: Because of His love we are forgiven by His grace. Jason, Lailanie, and I gave our testimonies and each one was perfectly woven into the idea of God has savior, redeemer, and healer. Since then countless students have come to me and thanked me for sharing and have told me small moments from their own lives that bring them pain and how my testimony touched their heart. God is so good! He takes my story and the pain I went through and uses it to stir in these students' hearts and bring forth what He needs them to accept and then allow Him to heal. I am so humbled that He is using me in this way. Each story I hear is heartbreaking, but these kids give me such hope in God. He has shown up in a mighty way.
Day 3: Because of His love we can find strength in Jesus and walk with him daily. Today we had a question and answer session that got at the heart of how we can practically lead pure lives everyday. We discussed predecision-making for healthy boundaries in relationships, divorce, HIV/AIDS, etc. It was an awesome day. We decided to hold a girl session and a boy session so that we could get to the heart of the matter in a safe and comfortable way. It proved to be key because the kids really opened up. Some girls, however, seemed very bitter towards being in the group today. They appeared to want nothing to do with the conversation, wouldn't make eye contact, or answer questions. These are the same few girls who have appeared to think purity is important in the other two days of choose to wait. Today showed me that appearences are deceiving and even if they don't look like they are listening, they are. God is still stirring in their hearts. After homework time tonight one of these girls gave me a note and I thought I would share a few sentences from it for you (grammar and all :) ).
"Hi kacie. I am very glad God sent you to Africa and share he's word with us. And Thanks For sharing your life story to us. It meant a lot to me, that I'm not the only one who have problems on earth, like everybody have problems in their life and struggle a lot. That thing wait and choose it meant a lot to us and it encourage us that, if we did some mistakes in the past and ask forgiveness to God he will Forgive you. When I think about that I think about this verses. Psalm 65:3 "Though we are overwhelming by our sins, you forgive them all." Psalm 86:5. "O Lord, you are so good, so ready to forgive, so full of unfailing love For all who ask For your help." These verse means a lot to me. if you would love to hear my story i would like to come and tell you. I love you so much, Kacie."
Praise God for his unfailing and forgiving love. I am so humbled to be used by him and so encouraged by the work He is doing in the hearts of the kids, like this little girl. God's presence is so real here and I feel Him moving and working actively everyday. The students have captured my heart and I have such a passion to serve them. It will be very difficult to return home.
Choose to wait has gone very well. I think God has moved beyond the issue of purity and encompassed it in His larger desire for the hearts of all the kids. Some are so lost and broken and these past three days I've seen God in the way that they have opened up and began to heal. Please pray for the kids here as they struggle through acknowledging their hurts and I pray that as we leave, their openness continues and they allow God to continue to work in their hearts.
Goodnight everyone! It's 12:20 am here and I have to be up in 5 hours because we are going on a game drive and leaving the academy at 6:30 am! I pray that we see some Big 5 animals!!! Love and miss you all! God bless!
Tuesday, August 17, 2010
Choose to wait: Day 2
Today was another wonderfully beautiful day here in South Africa. It is supposed to be the wrap up of the winter season over here but it doesn't feel so outside. It was in the mid 70's today, maybe low 80's, and you could feel the heat of God in your cheeks yet the heat wasn't enough to evaporate the copious amount of tears shed this afternoon. The longer you stay here, the more you find your heart belongs here. Or at least the more you want it to belong here. It's going to be so hard to leave.
Yesterday we did our first session of the Choose to Wait program, which is a way for us to be able to discuss purity with the kids and what it looks like to live that out daily in the secular world we live in. HIV could be present in 60-70% of the children here at Bridges, making purity an eminent discussion topic, even though it has most likely affected 100% of them in one way or another. Purity is one of the most important discussions we can have with them. Kacie, Jason and Lailanie gave their testimony's during the program this afternoon, and we are so thankful to have had them share. They have powerful testiments of God's holiness and forgivness. The discussion groups that followed were powerful and heart breaking. I thank God, everyday that I am here, for the willingness and openness of the kids and how much the Lord is doing through that. He is powerful and majestic in everyway imaginable and that is so evident in the way these kids have prevailed their backgrounds to be who they are today... Strong and wanting to know the Lord and what He is all about....
Hi! This is Erin...So today a team of 7 of us went once again into Sweet Home- what an amazing day! We started the day with Kim and Lailanie (two amazing teachers!) teaching the preschool teachers of the Creche all about child development, how to tailor activities to specific age groups, and also how to create a "schedule" for the day- as children desperately need structure! As they shared their expertise and knowledge, it was encouraging to hear how receptive and grateful the teachers were as they devote so much of themselves to starting this school for the betterment of the community in which they live. While Kim and Lailanie taught, Kristy, Matt, Jason, Parker and myself worked with the "informal school" children on different work stations. These children of the informal school are children whose parents/family have not sent them to the formal schools of the townships and they are left without a formal education. It was exciting and completely God-filled as the children excitedly joined around each station to take part in the learning activities. It was amazing to look around the room and see Jason working with a young boy named Sive on his math skills with magnetized numbers on cookie trays...and Parker enthusiastically working with large stamp letters. The little ones would get up after working on their art and start proudly showing it off to others in the room! Kristy worked endlessly with the children and had them all singing their hearts out! As I sat and played alphabet bingo with the group I was amazed at their enthusiasm and focus on such a simple game that most preschool children in the States would have been bored within about 5-10 minutes. These children were mesmerized with this simple game for over an hour! The children of Sweet Home are desperate for educational activities and it was such an amazing blessing of God to see how eager they are to learn and how incredibly brilliant these little minds are...God is using these preschool teachers to form the new generation of the township and it was a privilege to get to play a part today. This afternoon the team moved on to the church in Phillipi to work with the staff. Parker and Matt taught the staff at Phillipi on project management. They did an incredible job in taking very abstract concepts and breaking it down into manageable and simple steps. Matt and Parker are both gifted teachers and everyone in the room was engaged and taking notes. As we learned more about the type of projects the team is interested in starting, it caught our attention that they are such great visionaries of all they feel God is leading them to start within the townships. One specific project was that they are looking to start a bread business as they said "people here are so hungry and bread is just too expensive in the markets- we need a cheaper way to make bread and provide it at a cheaper cost...". We started brainstorming ideas for this project and we are excited to see how God has it unfold. Thanks to Parker and Matt for using their professional training to help train others! Overall a good day in Sweet Home. Although the poverty and need is overwhelming and your heart breaks with everything you see, it was encouraging to see that in small ways- the preschool and different projects being started- God is moving and big things are happening here in very tangible ways- Praise God! Blessings and thanks for your prayers.
Shawn: Hello friends. Today I was privileged to stay at the academy and teach a few classes to the sixth, seventh and ninth graders. God is definitely moving on this campus and has a very specific message for these children. Freedom and healing from their suffering. From the earliest classes in the morning it seemed that the teachers were compelled to adjust their lesson plans to accommodate this vision. Keely was able to get the kids in the morning classes to open up about their past and the very difficult situations that they are coming from. Horrendously sad experiences that are almost too painful to imagine for children this age. After hearing about this, I decided to adjust my lesson plan to focus on the Community aspect of Christianity. In my classes we looked at scriptures in Matthew, James, and Philippians discussing how we need to love our neighbors and be like Christ to each other to find strength and healing from our deep personal hurts. These kids have VERY tough shells, and are not comfortable sharing about their personal lives (who is?), but today our staff saw and heard from a number of children who took the brave step to share their stories with us. I am so happy and encouraged that some of these kids are taking this important step. There is a full time counselor and social worker here on campus which is an invaluable service for these children. It seems like with each passing day my heart grows heavier and heavier for the brokenness that lingers with the students at Sweet Home. But I am also astounded by the abundant goodness of God in allowing us to bring joy and the opportunity for these children to begin the healing process. My questions of pain are being answered by examples of God's faithfulness. Students are sharing with us their hurts and doubts, but also a desire to know God more. The healing process is beginning for a number of the kids here. I could go on for hours, but it is late. Please pray for a continued sense of openness from all the children here, and that God's forgiveness and peace would reign in the lives of these precious children of Sweet Home.
Yesterday we did our first session of the Choose to Wait program, which is a way for us to be able to discuss purity with the kids and what it looks like to live that out daily in the secular world we live in. HIV could be present in 60-70% of the children here at Bridges, making purity an eminent discussion topic, even though it has most likely affected 100% of them in one way or another. Purity is one of the most important discussions we can have with them. Kacie, Jason and Lailanie gave their testimony's during the program this afternoon, and we are so thankful to have had them share. They have powerful testiments of God's holiness and forgivness. The discussion groups that followed were powerful and heart breaking. I thank God, everyday that I am here, for the willingness and openness of the kids and how much the Lord is doing through that. He is powerful and majestic in everyway imaginable and that is so evident in the way these kids have prevailed their backgrounds to be who they are today... Strong and wanting to know the Lord and what He is all about....
Hi! This is Erin...So today a team of 7 of us went once again into Sweet Home- what an amazing day! We started the day with Kim and Lailanie (two amazing teachers!) teaching the preschool teachers of the Creche all about child development, how to tailor activities to specific age groups, and also how to create a "schedule" for the day- as children desperately need structure! As they shared their expertise and knowledge, it was encouraging to hear how receptive and grateful the teachers were as they devote so much of themselves to starting this school for the betterment of the community in which they live. While Kim and Lailanie taught, Kristy, Matt, Jason, Parker and myself worked with the "informal school" children on different work stations. These children of the informal school are children whose parents/family have not sent them to the formal schools of the townships and they are left without a formal education. It was exciting and completely God-filled as the children excitedly joined around each station to take part in the learning activities. It was amazing to look around the room and see Jason working with a young boy named Sive on his math skills with magnetized numbers on cookie trays...and Parker enthusiastically working with large stamp letters. The little ones would get up after working on their art and start proudly showing it off to others in the room! Kristy worked endlessly with the children and had them all singing their hearts out! As I sat and played alphabet bingo with the group I was amazed at their enthusiasm and focus on such a simple game that most preschool children in the States would have been bored within about 5-10 minutes. These children were mesmerized with this simple game for over an hour! The children of Sweet Home are desperate for educational activities and it was such an amazing blessing of God to see how eager they are to learn and how incredibly brilliant these little minds are...God is using these preschool teachers to form the new generation of the township and it was a privilege to get to play a part today. This afternoon the team moved on to the church in Phillipi to work with the staff. Parker and Matt taught the staff at Phillipi on project management. They did an incredible job in taking very abstract concepts and breaking it down into manageable and simple steps. Matt and Parker are both gifted teachers and everyone in the room was engaged and taking notes. As we learned more about the type of projects the team is interested in starting, it caught our attention that they are such great visionaries of all they feel God is leading them to start within the townships. One specific project was that they are looking to start a bread business as they said "people here are so hungry and bread is just too expensive in the markets- we need a cheaper way to make bread and provide it at a cheaper cost...". We started brainstorming ideas for this project and we are excited to see how God has it unfold. Thanks to Parker and Matt for using their professional training to help train others! Overall a good day in Sweet Home. Although the poverty and need is overwhelming and your heart breaks with everything you see, it was encouraging to see that in small ways- the preschool and different projects being started- God is moving and big things are happening here in very tangible ways- Praise God! Blessings and thanks for your prayers.
Shawn: Hello friends. Today I was privileged to stay at the academy and teach a few classes to the sixth, seventh and ninth graders. God is definitely moving on this campus and has a very specific message for these children. Freedom and healing from their suffering. From the earliest classes in the morning it seemed that the teachers were compelled to adjust their lesson plans to accommodate this vision. Keely was able to get the kids in the morning classes to open up about their past and the very difficult situations that they are coming from. Horrendously sad experiences that are almost too painful to imagine for children this age. After hearing about this, I decided to adjust my lesson plan to focus on the Community aspect of Christianity. In my classes we looked at scriptures in Matthew, James, and Philippians discussing how we need to love our neighbors and be like Christ to each other to find strength and healing from our deep personal hurts. These kids have VERY tough shells, and are not comfortable sharing about their personal lives (who is?), but today our staff saw and heard from a number of children who took the brave step to share their stories with us. I am so happy and encouraged that some of these kids are taking this important step. There is a full time counselor and social worker here on campus which is an invaluable service for these children. It seems like with each passing day my heart grows heavier and heavier for the brokenness that lingers with the students at Sweet Home. But I am also astounded by the abundant goodness of God in allowing us to bring joy and the opportunity for these children to begin the healing process. My questions of pain are being answered by examples of God's faithfulness. Students are sharing with us their hurts and doubts, but also a desire to know God more. The healing process is beginning for a number of the kids here. I could go on for hours, but it is late. Please pray for a continued sense of openness from all the children here, and that God's forgiveness and peace would reign in the lives of these precious children of Sweet Home.
Monday, August 16, 2010
Back to School
As usual, the morning began with a beautiful sunrise as we walked down to the academy classrooms for morning devotionals. Today was the start of our second week of classes here at the Academy. One week ago on our first day of class, students were somewhat shy and quiet, but today was a different story. Over the past week the students have really begun to open up and share their lives with our team. It has been a true blessing to hear each unique story of the students here at the Academy. Nate and Tanya will be sharing their experience from today at the Academy and in Sweet Home.
Tanya:
Today was another day of VBS for us at Sweet Home. We had a team of thirteen people go to Sweet Home which also included a few of the staff members from Bridges. Shaun did a wonderful job leading worship and storytelling. The kids have a great attention span for being as young as they are. Shaun is very good at commanding their attention and it doesn't hurt that the subject matter is awesome (Thank you Jesus!). The story today was that of Jesus' crucifixion and resurrection. The kids finally got to hear of God's grace and get to see more of the great depth of God's love. It was a bit of a difficult day though, as these kids are displaying more violence towards each other as the days go on. These young children are accustomed to throwing stones and violently attacking each other over the most minor offenses. It is important for us in these times to cling to the beauty in the children, though. Today, I had a bittersweet experience with a few of the children. One of the younger children had a cut on his foot that was bleeding and three of the children came to his aid. Obviously they were not trained to properly care for the wound but they were accustomed to caring for one of their own. Two of the little ones scampered off and brought back pieces of trash. I was unsure of what they were doing and I was cleaning the wound with a wipe, when one of the little ones took a piece of trash and put it against the cut while applying pressure. The other little one took a longer piece of trash and tied it to his foot to continue the pressure. It was so precious to see them take care of each other but devastating to realize how alone these children are. Not only do they not have access to clean first aid materials, they also do not have anyone to "kiss their 'booboos' and make it all better". Sweet Home is just a lot to handle. One verse that has been sticking with me during my Sweet Home time has been Matthew 11:28-29 because the Sweet Home experience can dishearten the strongest person and the only way to triumph for the Lord's kingdom is by finding rest in Him.
Nate:
Today was a beautiful start to the second week here at the Academy - beautiful to all the senses really.
Sight: Like Ryan said, yet another beautiful sunrise this morning that I know reminds us all of God's mighty hand over us and this place. Also, just to see all of the kids here showing respect to God and the Academy through morning worship and classes throughout the day is a sweet sight.
Hearing: Hearing the amazing things the kids have to say is a blessing and most definitely plays on all of our heartstrings. On a heavier note though, some of what the kids have to say is very saddening and I know weighs on all of our hearts. Today we began our three day "Choose to Wait" series. The series is entitled "Because of His Love" and today we focused on God's Holiness. C2W began today at 4:30p with three worship songs, two of which were led by Jason, and one which was a Lailanie and Shawn duet - "What Do I Know of Holy" by Addison Road (video to come).
Ms. Kacie gave a strong start to the series by hitting on the meaning of Holiness - devoted to Christ and separate from the ways of the world, 1 Peter 1:14-16. Following Kacie's wonderful intro came Parker and Erin's "story" and such a beautiful one at that. They basically explained to the kids the story of how they met, how they committed to each other and to God to remain pure before marriage, and how sweet that has proven to be for them and their marriage, NTM it is what we as Christ-followers are called to do. They also touched on a huge topic floating around the Academy, South Africa, and the entire world for that matter, sex. Parker and Erin introduced the topic of sex very simply but powerfully; which sets up to provide over the next two days a deeper understanding of why God created it, and how it is supposed to be used. Great job P&E!
In our prayer groups following the message, a few questions were posed to the kids. 1. What do you think it means to be holy? To live holy? 2. What does it mean to be separate and devoted? 3. What do you think of marriage? Do you want to get married?. Intense questions no doubt about that. We also asked the kids to share any questions they may not want to say out loud with pen and paper which will be kept confidential and anonymous. Lots of deep questions are already pouring in and will be addressed over the next two days. In a few of our classes today, some of the kids said they have no plans to get married. This is coming from grades 6-12. Definitely some deep hurts here that only Christ can mend. Pray for the spiritual wounds of these children to be healed.
Touch: Metaphorically speaking, seeing God's healing and mighty touch through His people is like moisture soothing dry cracked skin. Through worship, prayer, and fellowship, God is clearly and triumphantly accomplishing His work here at Bridges of Hope.
Smell: Sometimes the smell the kids give off is not the most pleasant, like tonight during homework time, a strange and quite unpleasant odor filled the air. Not to worry, plenty of doors and windows to be opened.
Taste: Again, metaphorically speaking, to taste the sweet words of speaking truth into all of these kids lives is like honey on the tongue.
We thank you for your prayers for our team, and for these incredible kids.
"What Do I Know of Holy" - Addison Road
Chorus:
What do I know of You
Who spoke me into motion?
Where have I even stood
But the shore along Your ocean?
Are You fire? Are You fury?
Are You sacred? Are You beautiful?
What do I know? What do I know of Holy?
Tanya:
Today was another day of VBS for us at Sweet Home. We had a team of thirteen people go to Sweet Home which also included a few of the staff members from Bridges. Shaun did a wonderful job leading worship and storytelling. The kids have a great attention span for being as young as they are. Shaun is very good at commanding their attention and it doesn't hurt that the subject matter is awesome (Thank you Jesus!). The story today was that of Jesus' crucifixion and resurrection. The kids finally got to hear of God's grace and get to see more of the great depth of God's love. It was a bit of a difficult day though, as these kids are displaying more violence towards each other as the days go on. These young children are accustomed to throwing stones and violently attacking each other over the most minor offenses. It is important for us in these times to cling to the beauty in the children, though. Today, I had a bittersweet experience with a few of the children. One of the younger children had a cut on his foot that was bleeding and three of the children came to his aid. Obviously they were not trained to properly care for the wound but they were accustomed to caring for one of their own. Two of the little ones scampered off and brought back pieces of trash. I was unsure of what they were doing and I was cleaning the wound with a wipe, when one of the little ones took a piece of trash and put it against the cut while applying pressure. The other little one took a longer piece of trash and tied it to his foot to continue the pressure. It was so precious to see them take care of each other but devastating to realize how alone these children are. Not only do they not have access to clean first aid materials, they also do not have anyone to "kiss their 'booboos' and make it all better". Sweet Home is just a lot to handle. One verse that has been sticking with me during my Sweet Home time has been Matthew 11:28-29 because the Sweet Home experience can dishearten the strongest person and the only way to triumph for the Lord's kingdom is by finding rest in Him.
Nate:
Today was a beautiful start to the second week here at the Academy - beautiful to all the senses really.
Sight: Like Ryan said, yet another beautiful sunrise this morning that I know reminds us all of God's mighty hand over us and this place. Also, just to see all of the kids here showing respect to God and the Academy through morning worship and classes throughout the day is a sweet sight.
Hearing: Hearing the amazing things the kids have to say is a blessing and most definitely plays on all of our heartstrings. On a heavier note though, some of what the kids have to say is very saddening and I know weighs on all of our hearts. Today we began our three day "Choose to Wait" series. The series is entitled "Because of His Love" and today we focused on God's Holiness. C2W began today at 4:30p with three worship songs, two of which were led by Jason, and one which was a Lailanie and Shawn duet - "What Do I Know of Holy" by Addison Road (video to come).
Ms. Kacie gave a strong start to the series by hitting on the meaning of Holiness - devoted to Christ and separate from the ways of the world, 1 Peter 1:14-16. Following Kacie's wonderful intro came Parker and Erin's "story" and such a beautiful one at that. They basically explained to the kids the story of how they met, how they committed to each other and to God to remain pure before marriage, and how sweet that has proven to be for them and their marriage, NTM it is what we as Christ-followers are called to do. They also touched on a huge topic floating around the Academy, South Africa, and the entire world for that matter, sex. Parker and Erin introduced the topic of sex very simply but powerfully; which sets up to provide over the next two days a deeper understanding of why God created it, and how it is supposed to be used. Great job P&E!
In our prayer groups following the message, a few questions were posed to the kids. 1. What do you think it means to be holy? To live holy? 2. What does it mean to be separate and devoted? 3. What do you think of marriage? Do you want to get married?. Intense questions no doubt about that. We also asked the kids to share any questions they may not want to say out loud with pen and paper which will be kept confidential and anonymous. Lots of deep questions are already pouring in and will be addressed over the next two days. In a few of our classes today, some of the kids said they have no plans to get married. This is coming from grades 6-12. Definitely some deep hurts here that only Christ can mend. Pray for the spiritual wounds of these children to be healed.
Touch: Metaphorically speaking, seeing God's healing and mighty touch through His people is like moisture soothing dry cracked skin. Through worship, prayer, and fellowship, God is clearly and triumphantly accomplishing His work here at Bridges of Hope.
Smell: Sometimes the smell the kids give off is not the most pleasant, like tonight during homework time, a strange and quite unpleasant odor filled the air. Not to worry, plenty of doors and windows to be opened.
Taste: Again, metaphorically speaking, to taste the sweet words of speaking truth into all of these kids lives is like honey on the tongue.
We thank you for your prayers for our team, and for these incredible kids.
"What Do I Know of Holy" - Addison Road
Chorus:
What do I know of You
Who spoke me into motion?
Where have I even stood
But the shore along Your ocean?
Are You fire? Are You fury?
Are You sacred? Are You beautiful?
What do I know? What do I know of Holy?
Sunday, August 15, 2010
A God Sized Day
This morning we got to host a church service for the kids. It was AMAZING. So much was done here today by God. Todd was the guest pastor here at Bridges of Hope and he did a great job. We were all so moved by his message, adults and kids alike. After, I gave my testimony to the kids and just shared with them a bit about my life and the trials I have been through. I was excited to share because I was just excited to share about how amazing God truly is and how He loves us so and is always with us, regardless if we acknowledge it or not. That is the one thing I love about sharing my story, I get to praise God through it all. I would not be where I am today without Him and His grace. I felt that the kids responded well and were very accepting. After that, we had communion and prayer. The team spread out among the students and we were all asked to pray for one another. The kids really opened up to us. They feel God through us and because of that, they are confiding in us. These kids are so beautiful, yet they have all been or are going through so many hard life lessons. Pastor Todd's message applied perfectly. In the afternoon, we just hung out with the kids, playing Ultimate Frisbee and soccer. Dinner proceeded and then a movie with the kids. To relax and spend time getting to know them is great. Today was a God sized day and I can't wait to see what the next week brings :)
Todd - Those who come here for the first time can not help but be amazed at the teens here at the Bridges of Hope Academy. They are polite, thoughtful, and an absolute joy to be with. And most refreshing, they love to sing to the Lord. You look at their lives and you begin to scratch your head and wonder if they have really come from a such a difficult background. They really are truly amazing and such a blessing!
But after having spent a little more time here and after having gotten a chance to get to know them a little more deeply, you quickly discover that there is deep pain just beneath the surface. The pain that surfaced today was from the heart of a young girl who shared with some of the other team members that she has known that she is HIV/AIDS positive since age 4. She is now 13, has not begun any kind of treatment, and is terrified about her future. And rightly so, knowing how many have already passed away in South Africa and having already lost a sister to the disease. Please pray for her and other students here at the Academy whom the staff already knows is struggling with the disease.
And please continue to pray for the heartache that they struggle with in not having family. We watched "The Blind Side" this evening and you could hear the longing in their hearts for family. They were obviously touched when Michael was invited to become a part of the family. In fact, one of the young men next to me said, "Say, yes!" Like all of us, they want family. And that is why your prayers for Bridges of Hope are so important because this is their family. Please pray for the staff to remain strong, for the students to glean all that they can from this opportunity and for Satan to have no place in this ministry. They desperately need family and they have it here.
Saturday, August 14, 2010
Table Mountain
This morning we all had the opportunity to sleep in an hour later as it was the beginning of our first weekend here in South Africa. On our agenda today was a visit to Table Mountain as well as downtown Cape Town. Table Mountain is an absolutely beautiful ring of flat top cliffs that peer over downtown Cape Town. We arrived around mid morning and rode up to the top in rotating gondolas. The view from the top was nothing short of breath taking. We spent a couple of hours at the top snapping countless photos and just having a great time bonding as a team. After Table Mountain, we made our way into downtown Cape Town to visit the local African Market. We all had the opportunity to walk around for about an hour and shop for souvenirs.
After our visit to Table Mountain and Cape Town, we headed back to the Academy for "Guys Night" and "Girls Night". For Guys Night, we took all the Academy boys outside and had a ridiculously fun time playing capture the flag in the dark with glow sticks. In addition to capture the flag, we also hung out in "the shed" playing basketball, devouring chips, drinking soda, and doing typical guys things. In contrast to Guys Night, all the girls meet up in the retreat center to paint nails and do other girl activities. Below is an excerpt from Lailanie on what the girls were up to tonight.
Lailanie:
After being gone most of the day, we were so excited to see the students and spend a fun night with them. Girls night and Guys night is a Rock Harbor team tradition. After dinner, all the girls got in our pajamas, spread out some blankets,"bedazzled" little purses and bags, painted our nails, and had the special treat of chips and soda. The best part was when the Mariah Carey song "Always Be My Baby" came on all the girls literally jumped up, picked up a marker to use as their faux microphone, and sang each word at the top of their lungs. It didn't end there...we then sang and danced to Justin Timberlake, Beyonce, and Alicia Keys. The girls then had the idea of having each of us on the team to write our names and a message on each of their bags to remember us. We ended the fun-filled evening by praying and every single student gave each of us a very heartfelt hug. It definitely seemed that through the songs, dancing, conversations in our pj's, and "bedazzling", our bond and friendships with one another just continues to grow. As we continue to hear their stories and spend more time with these amazing girls, our love for them continues to grow as well.
(Phola (in the pink) led most of the singing tonight)
After our visit to Table Mountain and Cape Town, we headed back to the Academy for "Guys Night" and "Girls Night". For Guys Night, we took all the Academy boys outside and had a ridiculously fun time playing capture the flag in the dark with glow sticks. In addition to capture the flag, we also hung out in "the shed" playing basketball, devouring chips, drinking soda, and doing typical guys things. In contrast to Guys Night, all the girls meet up in the retreat center to paint nails and do other girl activities. Below is an excerpt from Lailanie on what the girls were up to tonight.
Lailanie:
After being gone most of the day, we were so excited to see the students and spend a fun night with them. Girls night and Guys night is a Rock Harbor team tradition. After dinner, all the girls got in our pajamas, spread out some blankets,"bedazzled" little purses and bags, painted our nails, and had the special treat of chips and soda. The best part was when the Mariah Carey song "Always Be My Baby" came on all the girls literally jumped up, picked up a marker to use as their faux microphone, and sang each word at the top of their lungs. It didn't end there...we then sang and danced to Justin Timberlake, Beyonce, and Alicia Keys. The girls then had the idea of having each of us on the team to write our names and a message on each of their bags to remember us. We ended the fun-filled evening by praying and every single student gave each of us a very heartfelt hug. It definitely seemed that through the songs, dancing, conversations in our pj's, and "bedazzling", our bond and friendships with one another just continues to grow. As we continue to hear their stories and spend more time with these amazing girls, our love for them continues to grow as well.
(Phola (in the pink) led most of the singing tonight)
Friday, August 13, 2010
About A Week Ago
It's crazy to think that at about this time last week, we were all boarding a plane to South Africa. Technically it's only been five glorious days here for us (because we landed Sunday morning: hence the 9 hour time difference and 20 hour plane ride) but it has been some of the most amazing, God driven, illuminating, beautiful, tiring, broken and Christ focused days of our lives. I say tiring and broken with intent. Going into the township of Sweet Home daily, whether you are on the VBS, Sweet Home or Academy team, is a very hard thing to do. There is extreme poverty, disease and a sadness that consumes us because we can't take home every child we pick up. Leaving here will be very hard. Each day, the roots of our hearts, dig deeper and deeper into the soil here. We are becoming one with South Africa and along side all of this, we are becoming closer to our Father. Now put aside all of the sad thoughts about Sweet Home and just imagine all of the things we are seeing our Lord do there. He is working in and for these kids through us. Among bible stories, crafts, lunch and the love we pour out onto them, we are also teaching the CHE volunteers (Community Health Evangelists) the tools to launch an educational system in the township. If that isn't the Lord than I don't know what is.
Stephanie: South Africa could not be more full of God's love for the little ones in Sweet Home. The day was spent hearing a story about David and Goliath during VBS, making snakes, dinosaurs, balls, and other interesting things out of playdough, singing old favorites like "This Little Light of Mine" and "Father Abraham", hearing Jess give her testimony at the OVC meeting, and praying for a group of women during an AIDS/HIV Support Group. In the midst of this heavy and broken township, God's joy and peace is abundant in this place. He is right there, in the middle of it all. I could not help but smile and begin to cry whenever I held one of the children in my arms. I have a hard time putting my thoughts into words, as my heart breaks for each and every one of them. However, there is a hope that He instills in my heart that compels me to want to serve Him as I pray and let Him work in the middle of this broken and beautiful place. Please keep these children in your prayers, that God will use us so that He can make a home in each of their hearts someday.
"Listen my dear brothers: Has not God chosen those who are poor in the eyes of the world to be rich in faith and to inherit the kingdom he promised to those who love him?" James 2:5
Matt: Today was a busy day for those of us at the Academy, as we each taught between 4-6 classes throughout the day. This meant that we were all able to spend some extra time working with all the students at the Academy and really trying to invest in their lives. Our classes included topics such as Dealing with Fear, Finding Your Passion in Life, and How to Share Your Faith. It was so cool to talk with the students about each of the classes and hear how much they enjoyed learning all the new lessons. Based on conversations with the students, it sounded like they all really enjoyed Erin's CPR class, especially practicing on the practice dummies (just try to imagine a class of 15 African students tapping the dummy on the shoulder and saying "Excuse me sir, are you breathing?" Pretty awesome if you ask me, haha).
I was fortunate to be able to teach a lesson on Leadership to each of the grades from 6th Grade to 10th Grade. We examined different stories from Jesus' life, and identified how he demonstrated various leadership principles and how we can apply those principles to our lives. We looked at different principles such as encouragement, empowerment, and mentorship, but the main idea that I wanted to focus on was the idea of Servant Leadership. Whenever I take the time to think about it, I find it so amazing that Jesus was willing to humble himself, give up his place in heaven, take the form of a man, and ultimately give his life on the cross in order to save all of us. I shared with the students that Jesus' purpose for coming to earth could be summarized by the verse Mark 10:45: For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many. One of my favorite parts of each class, was that at the end of each lesson, the students made a list of practical ways of how they could serve each other, their teachers, and their family/friends on a daily basis. I was just blown away to see how excited some of them got when we started putting the list together. They would get so excited and raise their hands and say "I can write my teacher a note to say thank you" or "I can help one of the younger students' with their homework" or "I can tell my classmate that they did a good job when they get a good score on an exam". It was so incredible to see their willingness and desire to serve others and carry out Christ's mission. Every day these students continue to amaze me with their maturity, sincere hearts, and desire to grow closer to God
Thursday, August 12, 2010
In Full Swing
We woke up this morning again to a beautifully painted sky and a rising sun promising another warm day ahead. Today we continued classes at the Academy as usually as well as sent a team into Sweet Home. Erin meet with the CHE's to provide them valuable knowledge about first aid and Todd taught an awesome session about pain and suffering. As we approaching the weekend and a close to our first week, our hearts are swelling with a compassion and love for Sweet Home and South Africa. Each night as a team we set aside time to debrief and discuss our experiences from the day. We had a tremendously powerful debrief tonight as we shared how all of our hearts are breaking over the sheer pain and suffering that we have witnessed here in Sweet Home. Park and Keely have offered to share their experience from today.
Parker:
This morning, Erin and I had the great opportunity to go to Sweet Home and teach CPR as well as answer general medical questions to the Community Health Evangelists (CHE's). It was amazing to see how passionate and inquisitive the CHE's are about learning and gaining practical knowledge to better support their community. In total there were 16 CHE's who were able to practice CPR skills and pray that they are able to take this knowledge and teach the rest of the Sweet Home community! Erin and I feel so blessed to serve God while working with an organization like Bridges of Hope that is all about empowering commuinties toward long-term sustainable solutions. Words cannot describe the emotions and the experience of being on this trip, and feel God moving in us but also in Sweet Home as well. In the afternoon, Todd taught a great lesson to the CHE's on pain and suffering and how we live out our faith in the midst of a fallen world. For all of the people back home reading this, thank you so much for your prayers and your comments on this blog. We read them as a team every night and they bring us a wave of encouragement and support. This truly is an experience that will change my life forever.
Blessings, Parker
Keely:
Today I had the oppotunity to serve at the acadmy with the students teaching a class on submissiom/ Christ centered relationships. We started out our day with a group devotion and moved to worship with the students here at the acadamy. One of the songs that we sung was "Open the eyes of my heart" and as I sang I placed my head down to listen to the words of the song that I have heard and said many times in my life. During that time I began to pray and ask GOD to do that very thing for the staff, students and our team, "open our eyes and heart to how You would have us to serve You and Your people". Throughout the day the Lord worked in wonderful ways that really blessed the staff, students, and team. I was blessed to teach the students a hip hop dance which I had been practicing before coming out to South Africa. When the student entered in to the room I said my Lord do your thing and we went from there. About thirty of the student came to the dance which I did not expact at all. The student loved it and could not wait to learn some dance moves we danced for about one and an half hours before I asked the students if they would like to take a break but they had no desire to stop dancing so danced for a while longer before ending with a prayer. The students said that they had a blast and I know that i did as well. I want to thank you all for your prayers for the us as we seek God in South Africa.
Prayer Works!...<><.. Keely
Parker:
This morning, Erin and I had the great opportunity to go to Sweet Home and teach CPR as well as answer general medical questions to the Community Health Evangelists (CHE's). It was amazing to see how passionate and inquisitive the CHE's are about learning and gaining practical knowledge to better support their community. In total there were 16 CHE's who were able to practice CPR skills and pray that they are able to take this knowledge and teach the rest of the Sweet Home community! Erin and I feel so blessed to serve God while working with an organization like Bridges of Hope that is all about empowering commuinties toward long-term sustainable solutions. Words cannot describe the emotions and the experience of being on this trip, and feel God moving in us but also in Sweet Home as well. In the afternoon, Todd taught a great lesson to the CHE's on pain and suffering and how we live out our faith in the midst of a fallen world. For all of the people back home reading this, thank you so much for your prayers and your comments on this blog. We read them as a team every night and they bring us a wave of encouragement and support. This truly is an experience that will change my life forever.
Blessings, Parker
Keely:
Today I had the oppotunity to serve at the acadmy with the students teaching a class on submissiom/ Christ centered relationships. We started out our day with a group devotion and moved to worship with the students here at the acadamy. One of the songs that we sung was "Open the eyes of my heart" and as I sang I placed my head down to listen to the words of the song that I have heard and said many times in my life. During that time I began to pray and ask GOD to do that very thing for the staff, students and our team, "open our eyes and heart to how You would have us to serve You and Your people". Throughout the day the Lord worked in wonderful ways that really blessed the staff, students, and team. I was blessed to teach the students a hip hop dance which I had been practicing before coming out to South Africa. When the student entered in to the room I said my Lord do your thing and we went from there. About thirty of the student came to the dance which I did not expact at all. The student loved it and could not wait to learn some dance moves we danced for about one and an half hours before I asked the students if they would like to take a break but they had no desire to stop dancing so danced for a while longer before ending with a prayer. The students said that they had a blast and I know that i did as well. I want to thank you all for your prayers for the us as we seek God in South Africa.
Prayer Works!...<><.. Keely
Wednesday, August 11, 2010
Shedding Light
"Salvation is found in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given to men by which we must be saved." Acts 4:126am. Showers start. Feet shuffle. Coffee begins to brew. Ahhh, the beginning of another new day here in South Africa. The past few days have been some of the most amazing days. Have you ever walked into a room and just felt God's presence? Felt the warmth of His encouragement and the comfort of His love? The whole entire building we teach in is something quite like that. He is there and He is working. God is working through our lives and shedding His light on the little ones here. They know verses before you finish them, they praise His name in worship and they ask you everything they can about your faith. To go to Sweet Home and then to come back here, just having seen where is it that these kids have come from, and to see the way in which they praise the name of our one true God, is just simply breathless. It's just like nothing you have ever experienced before.
Jason: Today was probably one of the most beautiful days here on the farm. The sun rises at about 6:45 am here and it's amazing. Kacie, Parker, Jessica and myself went out to the fire pit with a cup of tea and my camera and just sat and watched the amazing pictures God was painting. Jessica wasn't feeling very well today and the whole team jumped in to help out and cover the classes she was suppose to teach. I have felt so great about the way all the classes have been coming together. I have taught 6 classes in the last 2 days. I am growing attached to a lot of different kids. There is a young boy in grade 9 named Sibu (See-boo) who i have been talking with about his future and he wants to be an engineer. I have talked with one of the teachers here about taking him to the University and going on a tour. I would love to be able to take him while i am here. Also there are a few girls who have opened up to me. Especially after the dinner we had tonight. All of the classes went so well today. Lailanie and I taught a sign language worship class which the kids loved and then I helped Emily with a Worship class. I have been doing a little driving here in S.A. and it is very different. Had to change a little flat tire today, that was fun. TIA (This Is Africa). After all the school and after school activites were done, we were able to take a select group of kids out to dinner to a place called Spur. There were about 10 kids who showed growth, exceptional behavior, and Christ like qualities, which were chosen to go tonight. out to dinner with half of the team. The other half of the team will go next week. The kids don't get to leave the "Farm" very often so it was a treat. Everyone was laughing the whole night. All of the employees at one point got up and did a dance and the entire team got up along with the kids and started dancing all over the restaurant. We just laughed, took pictures, and got to know the kids better throughout the whole night. God had his hand on the Academy Team today.
Kristy: Oh these precious faces! Our day in Sweet Home was indescribable. This is my fourth year returning to Sweet Home, so I have been blessed to see these little ones grow up. My day started in the yard in front of the creche (pre-school) with a bunch of babies. I looked over and noticed that beyond the fence was a familiar face. She spotted me and we both smiled and ran to each other. We held hands threw the fence. My experience this time has been much different because I really remember the kids faces and even a few names from last year. This is huge because there are about 60 little ones who don't speak English, so to learn any of their names is big in itself. Today I brought a book that I had made with pictures from last year's trip in them. I don't know why I had never thought about bringing it to show the kids before. As I turned the pages of the book, I was overjoyed by the kids pointing and saying, "ME!" At one point I started to pull some of the children aside one on one and show them their picture. One older boy, Sive, was looking at the book with me and he pointed to one of the girls in the picture, and told me it was his sister. This little girl was one that I had met last year and remember vividly. She was very sick last year and I remember just holding her and praying for her. I remember it was not just a prayer, but really a cry out to God to heal this little girl. I asked Sive if she was here and before I knew it he was running outside to get her. Soso is her name, and when she saw her picture she just had the biggest smile on her face. I hugged her for a long time and just cried. She is bigger and healthy and happy. Praise God.
Kristy
Tuesday, August 10, 2010
Classes Have Begun!
The team woke up bright and early today as it was the first official day of classes. This morning, before academic classes began we had a brief worship and devotional class with all of the students. Although we are all still recovering from our long flight, the small set aside time in the morning to worship and meet together as a group filled us with a lasting energy for the rest of the day to come. Academic classes began just after our period of worship. As classes began we were all filled with lots of excitement and anticipation of what it would be like to jump in the classroom and actually teach. Despite the nervousness and anticipation many of us felt, classes went extremely well. Everyone came back from their classes with great stories of how well the classes went and how receptive the students were to us jumping in to teach our spiritual disciplines.
Kacie is going to be sharing some of her experiences today with you that she had at the Academy.
Kacie: It is surreal how much the academy has felt like home since the moment I got here. The kids bring such joy and their smiles make my day. Today was our first official day of jumping into the rhythm of teaching spiritual discipline classes, after-school activities, and helping in homework time. The members of our team that taught today shared on silence and solitude, taming of the tongue, scripture study, servitude, and worship. I think I can speak for everyone when I say talking with these kids about God was so encouraging because they were very receptive to learn more and most of them had a strong base of knowledge. I taught a scripture study to the grade 6 and 7 kids and after simply asking questions like, "Why do we read the bible?" and "What is the bible?" I was quite honesty impressed with the mature answers I received. As a teacher, it was really fun to dive into a South African classroom and use the teaching strategies I've been using for a few years in a new continent and place. All of my goofy ways of teaching transferred to these kids and it was so much fun! The after school program went really well. Today Keely taught a hiphop dance class to most of the students and these kids can dance! We also held a sports hour of ultimate frisbee and soccer. Finishing up the afternoon Stephanie and I taught an art project and Nate got all of the kids participating in a few silly drama games. I've really enjoyed my time here at the academy so far and can tangibly feel that I am right where God is calling me to be. How great is our God to orchastrate a trip like this that brings us half way around the world to serve students at a boarding academy and really love into them and teach them about God. He is so good and I feel so blessed to be a part of this team. Lastly, I praise God for the devastatingly beauty of South Africa. Seeing God's creation of the mountains, trees, and neighboring vineyards while leaving our rooms each morning and walking to the academy to worship with the kids has taken my breath away every time. God's glory is surrounding the farm and it brings my heart such joy to simply be a part of it for these few weeks. :)
In addition to the classes starting at the academy, another subset of the team drove in to Sweet Home to meet with the CHE's. Kim was one of the people that went on in to Sweet Home this morning and has been kind enough to share some of what they experienced today.
Kim: The most important lesson that we learned today in Sweet Home as a team is that the best thing you can bring into the township is a flexible and willing spirit. Today in Sweet Home, our focus was on providing trainings for the teachers who work at the creche (preschool) and the informal school. Right now, there are 70 children enrolled at the creche, and there are 3 teachers. Keep in mind, this is in one room. I was so encouraged by these 3 women. They have such a hunger and openess toward learning more about how to teach preschool that they made the training easy for me. The support of the rest of the Sweet Home team was also a huge blessing today. They stayed behind at the creche, so that the teachers could be trained in an environment free from distractions. Their flexible and willingness to do this truly opened the door for the teachers to fully engage in our discussions and activities, which in turn, gave them some new tools for them to use this afternoon when they went back into their classroom.
The original plan for this afternoon was that our team would be teaching the class at the informal school in Sweet Home. This changed around lunch time when we learned that the children were no longer attending the school at this time. Again, flexibility and a willing spirit came in to play. The activities that we planned changed into a second teacher training. During this training, we allowed the teachers to take on the role of their students and really interact with the materials to gain a deeper understanding of how they can teach to their students in a fun way.
As I sit back and reflect on the trainings for the day, I am encouraged and reminded by God that He has a plan for this township and for the people who are answering the call to serve Him there. As I looked at these teachers today, I was reminded of how important it is to keep our passion and love for others rich and alive. It is through this that we can truly make an impact on our community. The teachers in Sweet Home are a true testament to this.
Kacie is going to be sharing some of her experiences today with you that she had at the Academy.
Kacie: It is surreal how much the academy has felt like home since the moment I got here. The kids bring such joy and their smiles make my day. Today was our first official day of jumping into the rhythm of teaching spiritual discipline classes, after-school activities, and helping in homework time. The members of our team that taught today shared on silence and solitude, taming of the tongue, scripture study, servitude, and worship. I think I can speak for everyone when I say talking with these kids about God was so encouraging because they were very receptive to learn more and most of them had a strong base of knowledge. I taught a scripture study to the grade 6 and 7 kids and after simply asking questions like, "Why do we read the bible?" and "What is the bible?" I was quite honesty impressed with the mature answers I received. As a teacher, it was really fun to dive into a South African classroom and use the teaching strategies I've been using for a few years in a new continent and place. All of my goofy ways of teaching transferred to these kids and it was so much fun! The after school program went really well. Today Keely taught a hiphop dance class to most of the students and these kids can dance! We also held a sports hour of ultimate frisbee and soccer. Finishing up the afternoon Stephanie and I taught an art project and Nate got all of the kids participating in a few silly drama games. I've really enjoyed my time here at the academy so far and can tangibly feel that I am right where God is calling me to be. How great is our God to orchastrate a trip like this that brings us half way around the world to serve students at a boarding academy and really love into them and teach them about God. He is so good and I feel so blessed to be a part of this team. Lastly, I praise God for the devastatingly beauty of South Africa. Seeing God's creation of the mountains, trees, and neighboring vineyards while leaving our rooms each morning and walking to the academy to worship with the kids has taken my breath away every time. God's glory is surrounding the farm and it brings my heart such joy to simply be a part of it for these few weeks. :)
In addition to the classes starting at the academy, another subset of the team drove in to Sweet Home to meet with the CHE's. Kim was one of the people that went on in to Sweet Home this morning and has been kind enough to share some of what they experienced today.
Kim: The most important lesson that we learned today in Sweet Home as a team is that the best thing you can bring into the township is a flexible and willing spirit. Today in Sweet Home, our focus was on providing trainings for the teachers who work at the creche (preschool) and the informal school. Right now, there are 70 children enrolled at the creche, and there are 3 teachers. Keep in mind, this is in one room. I was so encouraged by these 3 women. They have such a hunger and openess toward learning more about how to teach preschool that they made the training easy for me. The support of the rest of the Sweet Home team was also a huge blessing today. They stayed behind at the creche, so that the teachers could be trained in an environment free from distractions. Their flexible and willingness to do this truly opened the door for the teachers to fully engage in our discussions and activities, which in turn, gave them some new tools for them to use this afternoon when they went back into their classroom.
The original plan for this afternoon was that our team would be teaching the class at the informal school in Sweet Home. This changed around lunch time when we learned that the children were no longer attending the school at this time. Again, flexibility and a willing spirit came in to play. The activities that we planned changed into a second teacher training. During this training, we allowed the teachers to take on the role of their students and really interact with the materials to gain a deeper understanding of how they can teach to their students in a fun way.
As I sit back and reflect on the trainings for the day, I am encouraged and reminded by God that He has a plan for this township and for the people who are answering the call to serve Him there. As I looked at these teachers today, I was reminded of how important it is to keep our passion and love for others rich and alive. It is through this that we can truly make an impact on our community. The teachers in Sweet Home are a true testament to this.
Monday, August 9, 2010
Women's Day!
Today was a holiday here in South Africa. It was Women's Day (if you can't tell already by the title) and so all of the academy kids had the day off from school. All 50 came back to the academy, after spending the weekend with their caregivers or family members, to spend the day with us! Most of them came in the aftrernoon at about three, so our team had some time to soak up the day with the kids that met us at the airport, from the academy, and to visit the township of Sweet Home. Our team was split into two and we went our different ways after our e-a-r-l-y morning devotion and some coffee/cereal. The team I went with, I as in Jessica, took the academy children to a science center for the day. It was so cool to see how the kids functioned in a learning environment, outside of the classroom. They asked us questioned, pulled us around to different stations and even took a crazy ride on a Human Gyro! 12 of them did it and we all could not stop laughing! Even some of the leaders took the plung. Some silly screams and some funny faces were made, but what I believe made most of the trip was the car ride there. We took three individual cars to the center, and in each car the Holy Spirit rode. He lived in our conversations with the kids, and sang through our lips. The girls here love to sing, without any music and they truly harmonize together. It's love and it's God.
The other half of the team went into Sweet Home, which is the township, out side of Bridges, that RockHarbor has adopted. This is what Emily and Ryan have to share about their day:
Emily: The rain that started off our day made me weary. Weary that I was wearing the wrong shoes. Weary that I would be cold and soaking wet all day long. Weary that I would serve inadequately. But none of that mattered... because God spoke and He said today is good. Driving up to the township, I never dreamed of seeing such poverty. There is only so much that you can imagine before coming upon the reality of of it all. Poverty like nothing seen or heard of back at home. But something about it all was beautiful. In the midst of the brokeness, I could feel and even see God's hands doing mighty things in Sweet Home. I will keep this short by only telling one story about the day: Our craft for the VBS kids today was to color on canvas backpack that the kids got to take home. We had two groups of VBS kids today and during the second session, we split the kids into two groups. The first group of kids dominated their bags with awesome rainbows and Hosa people drawings that were hilarious. So cute. But while the precious little kiddies were coloring, Erika and I went into slight panic mode when we realized we didn't have NEARLY enough bags for the next group of kids coming in. Long story short... After MUCH panic and much of me "doubting God's abundance and provision," we asked the Che's what we should do. Erika said, "Maybe God will provide the bags while we pass them out." I said, "We'll see." Typical lack of faith on my part. I guess I never give God enough credit. Especially for what He was about to do. One lady stood up and wandered over to some random box that was in the corner and said, "I think we have some left over from last year." Erika and I froze. Mouths wide open, tears in our eyes, and a loud cry from me saying "Oh ye of little faith," we were provided with more than enough bags for the kids. I counted the kids outside. 26. Erika counted the extra bags. 26. Dear God: You are amazing. Forgive me for doubting you. I am so sorry for thinking you weren't big enough to solve our tiny problem. You are absolutely incredible. Thank you for reminding me of that. (This story would have been ten times crazier if you were there. I promise. I am sure Ryan will affirm that for me in his post to follow. =) )
Ryan:
From the day we arrived I have had many expectations looming around in my head of what Africa would be like. I find myself constantly comparing the reality of what I have actually experienced so far to the stories and expectations I have magically made up in my head. When I think of Africa, elephants, hot weather, huts, and jungle cats are usually what come to mind. Today as we made our way in to Sweet Home I brought with me many of my concieved expectations of what Sweet Home would actually be like. One specific expectation that I carried with me is that the devastating poverty and lack of simple necessities in Sweet Home would somehow be a mirror of the attitude and overall posture of the people themselves. When I think of poverty I think lack of hope. I think lack of joy. I always get this mental image of people falling to their knees crying with their arms raised to the sky as a result of the constant battle they face to simply survive. While I'm certain the physical day to day struggle to live in poverty is tremendous, the attitude and spirit of the people in Sweet Home was nothing like the images and expectations I have created in my mind. As we arrived at the place where we would be running the VBS today, our van was swarmed by what seemed like hundreds of children with the large smiles on their faces. The joy in their eyes was piercing as they jumped up and down to greet us. The joy radiating from the children as we arrived was not simply a momenentary spurt of excitment spurred by our arrival, but instead was a constant radiation from their being throughout the entire day. I can't count the number of times a child walked up to me and gave me a hug just because. I can't count the number of times I saw children dancing around like they were at the coolest party on the planet. I can't count the number of laughs I heard from the children of Sweet Home. Today my expectations were shattered. Today I saw what true joy looks like.
The other half of the team went into Sweet Home, which is the township, out side of Bridges, that RockHarbor has adopted. This is what Emily and Ryan have to share about their day:
Emily: The rain that started off our day made me weary. Weary that I was wearing the wrong shoes. Weary that I would be cold and soaking wet all day long. Weary that I would serve inadequately. But none of that mattered... because God spoke and He said today is good. Driving up to the township, I never dreamed of seeing such poverty. There is only so much that you can imagine before coming upon the reality of of it all. Poverty like nothing seen or heard of back at home. But something about it all was beautiful. In the midst of the brokeness, I could feel and even see God's hands doing mighty things in Sweet Home. I will keep this short by only telling one story about the day: Our craft for the VBS kids today was to color on canvas backpack that the kids got to take home. We had two groups of VBS kids today and during the second session, we split the kids into two groups. The first group of kids dominated their bags with awesome rainbows and Hosa people drawings that were hilarious. So cute. But while the precious little kiddies were coloring, Erika and I went into slight panic mode when we realized we didn't have NEARLY enough bags for the next group of kids coming in. Long story short... After MUCH panic and much of me "doubting God's abundance and provision," we asked the Che's what we should do. Erika said, "Maybe God will provide the bags while we pass them out." I said, "We'll see." Typical lack of faith on my part. I guess I never give God enough credit. Especially for what He was about to do. One lady stood up and wandered over to some random box that was in the corner and said, "I think we have some left over from last year." Erika and I froze. Mouths wide open, tears in our eyes, and a loud cry from me saying "Oh ye of little faith," we were provided with more than enough bags for the kids. I counted the kids outside. 26. Erika counted the extra bags. 26. Dear God: You are amazing. Forgive me for doubting you. I am so sorry for thinking you weren't big enough to solve our tiny problem. You are absolutely incredible. Thank you for reminding me of that. (This story would have been ten times crazier if you were there. I promise. I am sure Ryan will affirm that for me in his post to follow. =) )
Ryan:
From the day we arrived I have had many expectations looming around in my head of what Africa would be like. I find myself constantly comparing the reality of what I have actually experienced so far to the stories and expectations I have magically made up in my head. When I think of Africa, elephants, hot weather, huts, and jungle cats are usually what come to mind. Today as we made our way in to Sweet Home I brought with me many of my concieved expectations of what Sweet Home would actually be like. One specific expectation that I carried with me is that the devastating poverty and lack of simple necessities in Sweet Home would somehow be a mirror of the attitude and overall posture of the people themselves. When I think of poverty I think lack of hope. I think lack of joy. I always get this mental image of people falling to their knees crying with their arms raised to the sky as a result of the constant battle they face to simply survive. While I'm certain the physical day to day struggle to live in poverty is tremendous, the attitude and spirit of the people in Sweet Home was nothing like the images and expectations I have created in my mind. As we arrived at the place where we would be running the VBS today, our van was swarmed by what seemed like hundreds of children with the large smiles on their faces. The joy in their eyes was piercing as they jumped up and down to greet us. The joy radiating from the children as we arrived was not simply a momenentary spurt of excitment spurred by our arrival, but instead was a constant radiation from their being throughout the entire day. I can't count the number of times a child walked up to me and gave me a hug just because. I can't count the number of times I saw children dancing around like they were at the coolest party on the planet. I can't count the number of laughs I heard from the children of Sweet Home. Today my expectations were shattered. Today I saw what true joy looks like.
Welcome to Africa!
WE HAVE ARRIVED!! Finally, after hours on a plane and maybe a few too many plane entrees, we have arrived here in beautiful South Africa! We are all here in one piece along with all of our luggage, safe and sound. It was pouring rain when we landed and has yet to let up but it feels fresh and new.
As we stepped off the plane and claimed our bags, we walked into the loving arms of 10 of the academy students! It was so amazing to be hugged individually by each one and we all felt so welcomed. Then off to our cars we went. Bags a plenty and with God's love surrounding us, swelling our hearts as our journey has finally become a reality, we drove the hour to Franschhoek, where the Bridges of Hope Academy is. The cold is bearable, like a sweet fall night during October in Southern California... the weather is around 60 in the day and maybe 40 at night. I can't describe in enough words to you the glowing feelings in my cheeks or the beauty I am in amazement of here. Surrounding the academy are mountains of wonder and children with beautiful faces, smiling into our hearts every second were here. Our first day here we just hung out with the children, playing games (pool and HORSE included) laughing and getting to know one another, while growing closer to God through it all. After all the games, we took a small hike over to the Academy, which is adjacent to the Retreat Center in which we are lodging, and had dinner with the kids. Spagetti was on the menu and it was great to share a meal with out fellow brothers and sisters in Chrsit, over here in South Africa. Following, was a movie called Up and then some hot cocoa and popcorn. Many of us were tired and sleepless from the plane but we chugged right on through, living it up with our new friends. Getting to now one another was amazing... its slow and new but great non the less.
Once we were all tucked tightly in our new beds for the next two weeks, you could almost here our silent prayers filling the house. Sleep was close at hand and sneaking up on us as we thanked the Lord for the most amazing first day in Africa that we could have ever asked for, but before the snores came about, I know we all felt His love showering us among the rain droplets falling from the sky, soothing us into our first night here.
If I had to put everything I just wrote into a few simple words it would be this:
Thank you Lord for being our one true love and thank you for bringing us here!
There is so much to be done here I can just feel it...
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