Winter Project 2026: Bringing Warmth, Dignity and Hope

Winter is a difficult season for many of the children and families we serve in the Wellington valley. The 100 preschool children enrolled in our programs come from households facing poverty, unemployment, food insecurity, and limited access to basic necessities. For many parents, providing warm winter clothing simply isn’t possible.

Cold weather affects far more than comfort. It impacts children’s health, school attendance, concentration, and overall well-being. When basic needs are met, children are better able to learn, grow, and participate confidently in daily life.

Thanks to the generosity of our donors, churches, businesses, volunteers, and community partners, this year’s Winter Project once again made a meaningful difference.

Every one of our 100 preschool children received:

• A warm tracksuit
• New underwear and socks
• Waterproof gumboots
• A blanket
• A beanie and gloves
• Hand-knitted winter wear (poncho, jersey, or pullover)
• A knitted teddy bear

Our 18 Avodah members (adults with intellectual disabilities) were also remembered with:

• Brand-new pyjamas
• A warm bathrobe
• Socks

These gifts provided more than warmth. They brought dignity, comfort, and the reassurance that each person is seen, valued, and cared for. They also eased the financial burden on families during one of the most challenging times of the year.

In total, 118 beneficiaries experienced a warmer winter because people chose to care.

This project is a powerful reminder of what can happen when a community comes together. Every donation, every knitted garment, every prayer, and every act of support contributed to making a lasting difference.

Thank you for partnering with Mas vir Wellington. Your generosity has helped ensure that vulnerable children and adults can face winter with greater warmth, dignity, and hope.

 

This is what it is all about!! 

And if you’d like to see what makes this event so special, watch our 2025 Golf Day highlights video and experience the impact for yourself!

Email us now become a sponsor, or donate an auction item.

salome@masvirwellington.co.za

Daisy Day – 4 September 2026

Loved beyond measure

Join Avodah as we celebrate adults with intellectual disabilities and the unique purpose God has placed in every life. This special awareness day is a reminder that every person is wonderfully created in God’s image, deeply valued, and loved beyond measure.

Together, let us raise awareness, celebrate inclusion, and honour the gifts and potential within every individual.

Contact Surette Moggee to order your free stickers or to get involved by sponsoring item expenses to help make our Awareness Week possible.

 

 

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Annual Report for the financial year 1 March 2025 – 28 February 2026.

2025 was a year that tested our strength, deepened our faith, and reminded us of the foundation on which Ma’s vir Wellington stands. Through challenges, loss, change, and uncertainty, God remained faithful, sustaining our team and empowering us to continue serving with compassion and hope. As we share our 2025 Annual Report, we celebrate God’s provision, the dedication of our staff and volunteers, and the impact made possible through the support of our community. Thank you for walking this journey with us.

READ ANNUAL REPORT  

 

Call to action

Love in Action This Winter Season

As the colder days have already arrived in Wellington, we are launching our annual Winter Project Campaign—a practical way to care for the children and members in our programs during this season.

Each year, we aim to provide every child and member with a brand-new winter outfit, which includes a tracksuit, underwear, socks, blanket, beanie, knitted gloves, and winter boots.

This project is about more than just meeting a need—it’s about sharing warmth, dignity, and kindness in a meaningful way.

We invite you, your family, or your life group to partner with us. At R320 per child, you can help make a real difference. Supporting a child together as a group is a simple yet powerful expression of Kingdom giving—giving with purpose and love.

“Let us not love with words or speech but with actions and in truth.” – 1 John 3:18

Please keep an eye out for our campaign ads and updates and consider how you can be part of this initiative.

TO GET INVOLVED CLICK HERE  

The post Newsletter May 2026 appeared first on Ma's vir Wellington.

Whether she is gently walking beside a wheelchair, staying close to someone who is unwell, or bringing joy through play and affection, Katryn has a remarkable ability to sense the emotions and needs of those around her. Her calm, patient, and accepting nature creates a sense of safety and belonging for our members, many of whom experience deep emotional connection through her presence. Katryn reminds us that healing and inclusion are often found in the simplest acts of unconditional love. She is not only part of our team, but truly part of the Avodah family.

Watch the powerful testimony below

https://youtube.com/shorts/2-G3Os7TMuk?si=dA3CHq3wGkRzeLOk

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Canderin, a 20-year-old young woman with an intellectual disability, often faces bullying and misunderstanding in her community, leaving her isolated and overwhelmed. At Avodah, however, she finds a safe and loving environment where she is accepted for who she is. Surrounded by patience, care, and understanding, Canderin has begun to grow in confidence, build friendships, and express her joyful and gentle nature through group activities and creative projects.

The post Seen, Loved, and Accepted appeared first on Ma's vir Wellington.

Nicoleen, a mother of two boys in the children’s ministry, joined the program feeling overwhelmed and unsure how to guide her children. Through parent training sessions, she learned how to nurture and lead her family with confidence and love.

The post Finding Purpose appeared first on Ma's vir Wellington.

As overwhelmed emotions settle, their “thinking brain” can come alive again — eyes meeting ours, trust forming, and learning becoming possible. In these moments, children are given the freedom to breathe, to play, to grow, and simply to be children.

Click the link below to watch the testimony 

https://youtu.be/6JMMpepJGrY?si=OeoYEB1bOLNLKUHu

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Marius, one of our Avodah members, has recently begun an exciting new chapter through hands-on woodworking training at Prowell Woodskills. From the moment he stepped into the workshop, he embraced the opportunity with enthusiasm and determination, eager to learn and grow in a real working environment.

Each week, Marius attends training sessions where he is gradually introduced to the tools, techniques, and rhythms of woodworking. What stands out most is not only the practical skills he is gaining, but the steady growth in his confidence. Tasks that once seemed unfamiliar are now becoming part of his developing skill set, and he is beginning to take real ownership of his work.

One of his proudest milestones so far has been building his very own small bench. For Marius, this was more than just a project—it was a tangible reminder that he is capable of creating something meaningful with his own hands. Moments like these are powerful, especially for someone stepping into a new space of learning and independence.

During the recent holiday period, Marius was given the opportunity to assist in the workshop. In this role, he supported facilitators, helped ease their workload, and experienced what it means to be part of a working team. This exposure not only deepened his understanding of the environment but also strengthened his sense of responsibility.

Perhaps the most special moment came when Marius earned his very first wages. In a heartfelt act of generosity and gratitude, he chose to give his earnings to his father to help support their family. It was a moment of immense pride for his father—and for all of us who have had the privilege of witnessing Marius’s journey.

Marius’s story is one of growth, perseverance, and purpose. It is deeply encouraging to see how he is stepping forward, embracing responsibility, and making the most of every opportunity placed before him.

We are incredibly proud of you, Marius. Keep building, keep growing, and keep moving forward.

Prowell Woodskills offers hands-on woodworking experiences for individuals of all ages in the Paarl–Wellington area, equipping people with practical skills, confidence, and the opportunity to create something meaningful.

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Woman of Worth Event: From the Cross to Authority in Christ

Our staff and volunteers recently gathered for our quarterly WOW – Women of Worth event at the beautiful Langkloof Rose venue. It was a simple, yet powerful morning spent in God’s Word with Selma van Rooyen—a time to pause and be reminded that we are not defined by our past, but by what Christ has done for us. From the cross, we step into our true identity and the authority we have in Him.

We reflected on powerful truths from Scripture:

• Colossians 2:14 — our past is wiped clean in Him
• Revelation 12:11 — our stories carry power and purpose
• 1 Peter 2:9 — we are chosen to shine His light

One of the most meaningful moments of the morning was washing one another’s feet—a beautiful and humbling act of love and service. God continues to restore, strengthen, and use each of us as we serve Him together.

We also take a moment to honour and temporarily say goodbye to Selma van Rooyen, who has been part of the Ma’s vir Wellington journey since the early years alongside Stephanie Henderson. Selma has faithfully served in many areas over the years, including leadership on the Board, children’s ministry, the Thabisa group for vulnerable women, and leading our intercession team. Together with a dedicated group of volunteers, she has carried the organisation in prayer, faithfully leading our Thursday intercession gatherings.

Selma’s husband, Deon, has received a wonderful opportunity to work in Kenya. During the winter months, Selma will be spending time there with him, trusting the Lord for the doors He will open in this new season. Her heart is to first seek Him—spending time in the Word, building relationships, and simply being available. She also looks forward to expressing her creativity through art and painting during this time.

Selma plans to return in mid-September 2026. As she steps into this season, she trusts God to lead her into the places where He wants to use her—especially in His work of restoration and preparing the Bride of Christ.

We are deeply grateful for Selma’s faithful service and the impact she has made over the years. We bless her as she goes, knowing that God will continue to guide her every step of the way.

Marius: Building His Way Forward

Marius, one of our Avodah members, has recently begun an exciting new chapter through hands-on woodworking training at Prowell Woodskills. From the moment he stepped into the workshop, he embraced the opportunity with enthusiasm and determination, eager to learn and grow in a real working environment.

Each week, Marius attends training sessions where he is gradually introduced to the tools, techniques, and rhythms of woodworking. What stands out most is not only the practical skills he is gaining, but the steady growth in his confidence. Tasks that once seemed unfamiliar are now becoming part of his developing skill set, and he is beginning to take real ownership of his work.

One of his proudest milestones so far has been building his very own small bench. For Marius, this was more than just a project—it was a tangible reminder that he is capable of creating something meaningful with his own hands. Moments like these are powerful, especially for someone stepping into a new space of learning and independence.

During the recent holiday period, Marius was given the opportunity to assist in the workshop. In this role, he supported facilitators, helped ease their workload, and experienced what it means to be part of a working team. This exposure not only deepened his understanding of the environment but also strengthened his sense of responsibility.

Perhaps the most special moment came when Marius earned his very first wages. In a heartfelt act of generosity and gratitude, he chose to give his earnings to his father to help support their family. It was a moment of immense pride for his father—and for all of us who have had the privilege of witnessing Marius’s journey.

Marius’s story is one of growth, perseverance, and purpose. It is deeply encouraging to see how he is stepping forward, embracing responsibility, and making the most of every opportunity placed before him.

We are incredibly proud of you, Marius. Keep building, keep growing, and keep moving forward.

Prowell Woodskills offers hands-on woodworking experiences for individuals of all ages in the Paarl–Wellington area, equipping people with practical skills, confidence, and the opportunity to create something meaningful.

TO GET INVOLVED CLICK HERE

Call to action

Love in Action This Winter Season

As the colder days have already arrived in Wellington, we are launching our annual Winter Project Campaign—a practical way to care for the children and members in our programs during this season.

Each year, we aim to provide every child and member with a brand-new winter outfit, which includes a tracksuit, underwear, socks, blanket, beanie, knitted gloves, and winter boots.

This project is about more than just meeting a need—it’s about sharing warmth, dignity, and kindness in a meaningful way.

We invite you, your family, or your life group to partner with us. At R320 per child, you can help make a real difference. Supporting a child together as a group is a simple yet powerful expression of Kingdom giving—giving with purpose and love.

“Let us not love with words or speech but with actions and in truth.” – 1 John 3:18

Please keep an eye out for our campaign ads and updates and consider how you can be part of this initiative.

Project deadline: 5 June 2026

TO GET INVOLVED CLICK HERE  

The post Newsletter April 2026 appeared first on Ma's vir Wellington.

The True Meaning of Passover: Sharing the Story of Our Savior 

In a world where truth seems no longer certain, and the line between the world and God’s kingdom is blurred, we took a week to celebrate the truth of Passover.

We remembered that our Lord Jesus Christ, the Savior, came from Heaven to Earth. He lived as a man, without sin, blessing us with His life, and sacrificed Himself as the perfect Lamb, the ultimate offering for our sins. Through Him, we can all have eternal life in His kingdom.

This is the message—not chocolates, not bunnies, not eggs—but a perfect offering that washes away our sins.

It is a challenging concept to explain, especially to small children and to our Avodah members with intellectual disabilities. Yet each of our programs tailored the story to ensure the Good News of Jesus was shared clearly.

If you do not yet know this story, join us on this journey—from a King traveling to Jerusalem on a humble donkey, to the Last Supper, washing of feet, His time in Gethsemane, to the capture, trial, and crucifixion. The truth of every part of this story is significant for every Christian, because this is the truth of our Savior.

Via Dolorosa

The Jews wanted a king to save them from Roman rule. But Jesus came not only to save the Jews; He came to save the whole world!

He entered Jerusalem on a colt—a donkey. Why is this significant?

• Kings rode horses when going to war
• Kings rode donkeys when coming in peace

Jesus came as a King of peace, not of political power.

Washing of Feet

In our programs, we had the opportunity to wash each other’s feet.

In Jesus’ time, only servants washed feet. His act showed us how we should serve one another in humility, on our knees.

The Last Supper
The Last Supper took place during Passover, a remembrance of God saving the Israelites from slavery in Egypt. Jesus came to save us from the slavery of sin.

Our Avodah members recreated the Last Supper by breaking bread and sharing juice. At this meal, Jesus revealed to His disciples that the bread and wine represented His body and blood:

• Bread = His body
• Wine = His blood

The disciples did not yet fully understand that He would be flogged, die, and shed His blood for the sins of the world. This moment became the foundation for Communion, or the Lord’s Supper, which Christians practice today.

Bringing the Last Supper to Life Through Art

After the Avodah group finished acting out the Last Supper, we moved into a creative activity that helped bring the lesson to life in a practical way. Together, we went outside to collect feathers, which we then used as a gentle introduction to watercolour painting.

The members were guided to hold the feather lightly, dip it into water, add a small touch of paint, and softly brush it onto a clean canvas. This was an important exercise, as many of our members tend to press too hard with their brushes, causing the bristles to spread and lose shape.

Through using feathers, they learned the value of working gently and with control, developing both their skill and confidence. Once they understood the technique, they moved on to using soft watercolour brushes to complete their beautiful Last Supper paintings.

Jesus Praying in the Garden of Gethsemane

In quiet and reflective moments, the Avodah group spent time in prayer, remembering Jesus in the garden of Gethsemane.

Jesus was deeply distressed in Gethsemane. He prayed and asked God if the cup might pass from Him. Why was He scared?

• He knew that in death He would be separated from God
• He knew the crucifixion would be horrific
• He would bear the full weight of the world’s sin

Yet He did not run from the cross. He went toward the cross in obedience to God, even unto death.

Jesus on the Cross

Our Children’s Ministry shared the story of Jesus’ death from another angle. We focused on the cross as the ultimate act of love, not merely pain and suffering.

• John 3:16:

“For God so loved the world that He gave His only Son, so that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life.”

Each child took a stone, that represents our sins and placed it at the foot of the cross.

Because of His love, Jesus moved toward the cross and obeyed God, dying for the sins of the world.

Each child made their own cross with red yarn representing Jesus’ blood, sealed with a heart to understand His love. Each child also received a second cross to take home, with the message:

“God loves you so much that Jesus died for you.”

They were encouraged to give it to someone at home, sharing the good news of Jesus.

The greatest Miracle

The tomb was empty! Jesus rose from the dead, having conquered death. He is alive!

We celebrated with singing and worship, children praising the King coming to gather all His children who believe in Him. Flags waved, hands clapped, and hearts rejoiced as we gave praise to our God!

Call to action

Be Part of a Child’s Strong Start

Do you want to play a role in building a child’s foundation for life?

Click here to support a child with a one-time gift or follow the link to sponsor a child monthly and make a lasting impact.

Together, we can ensure these little hearts and minds have the best start to life and help bring God’s love and hope into every home we serve.

TO GET INVOLVED CLICK HERE  

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