The 21st of March is marked as World Down Syndrome Day. Once again, we celebrated it –as well as our dear Down Syndrome missionary, Timothy — by joining in the 6 km Tygerberg Fun Run. Timothy rose to the challenge and ran with his usual flair.
From young to older, each Helping Hand member gave it their all and received their well-deserved medals. Well done to all!
At this centre for women facing times of severe crisis, it was absolutely lovely to see the excitement on the ladies’ faces as they tried on pairs of brand new shoes, (for some the first new shoes they’ve ever owned) and were able to choose not only one in their size, but the style and colour they most liked!
…One amazing testimony is that we had felt deeply led to get calculators to add to these children’s packs, and thanks to the kind discount given by the stationary suppliers, we were able to! But little did we know just how accurate that leading from the Lord was, until Mama Rosie saw the packs and tearfully exclaimed “you know, the local schools have been turning away some of the children, specifically because they are required to have a calculator and they didn’t have. Often they also discriminate against our orphanage kids because they have old uniforms, or are lacking something. These calculators and supplies make a HUGE difference to encourage our kids to keep going to school and learning with pride and confidence!”
What an amazing time we had witnessing at schools up the West Coast! After preparation of the hundreds of school packs and much Gospel material, we went out! From place to place we went as we were led – seeking, knocking, and going where we were received. Down dirt roads and through towns, we were blessed to find many receptive principals, teachers, and children. Over and over again, we performed “The Heart Skit” – showing how money, clothes, toys, and other material things can never truly satisfy or open our hearts, but the True Love of Jesus can! And for the higher grades, we spoke on purpose, hope, and a Saviour who offers us the Peace and Power we cannot find merely within ourselves. We were also able to pray with and encourage many of the faithful teachers and school administrators, letting them know that their faithful efforts are not in vain, and Jesus SEES them.
The children at our Sunday School all eagerly gathered around to learn on “we love Him because He first loved us” (1 John 4:19) and “Love the Lord with all your heart, soul, and mind” (Matthew 22:37-40) and then to sign their names to a “Valentine for Jesus” card. One of the older boys who is a real young disciple in the community kept the card to preserve and enjoy! It was a truly joyful time!
For Valentine’s Day, each of the ladies at a centre for women in crisis (at which we host weekly Bible studies) received a beauty pack, some delicious chocolates, and a Activated magazine with a special message of love and encouragement from Jesus. These dear ladies have so much going on in their lives and so many decisions to make – we are glad to be able to remind them that Love and Forgiveness is always available, and they are deeply valued.
We were once again able to bless this rehab centre with needed items and Activated magazine issues for all the men seeking a fresh start with Jesus.
Our sweet Kaya – who for the last 12 years was a faithful guard dog, loving friend to the children, and constant presence in the mission – went peacefully yesterday over to the Golden Shores. We are all grateful for the love and memories we shared with her, and look forward to seeing her again one glorious day. Thank you all for your care and prayers during this time.
