Newsletter-September 2024
Children Ministry
It is with deep sadness that we say farewell to one of our beloved children from the Children’s Ministry this month. We were privileged to be part of Adré’s little world, even if only for a short time. Adré was a quiet boy with the sweetest manners and a gentle spirit, always greeting us with a warm smile. He loved participating in different activities, especially arts and crafts, and spending time with his friends.
We fondly remember how his eyes sparkled when he learned something new or played with his friends, simply enjoying the innocence of childhood. Adré had the precious opportunity to hear about God and learn who He is, and we take comfort knowing that he always knew Jesus loved him. As he would say himself, he was truly a “King’s child.”
In this difficult time, we find solace in the assurance that Adré is now with Jesus, surrounded by love and light. We cherish the memories we have of him and continue to support one another as we navigate this great loss. God is faithful, even in our grief.
Psalm 34:18 reminds us, “The Lord is close to the broken hearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.”
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Pre-school
Children thrive on healthy boundaries, consistent rules and guidelines. In August, we focused on making some changes in our discipline methods to better support our children’s growth. Teachers closely observed their classes, keeping an eye on important behaviours like teamwork, helping each other, and cleaning up after free play and crafts. We also encouraged children to be kind towards each other to reduce bullying both in the classroom and on the playground.
To keep things fun, we introduced a system where kids can earn a “golden stick” for showing good behaviour. When they get a golden stick, they can pick a reward from our “Trots-sak”(brag bag). It’s been a great way to motivate them to be their best and cheer each other on when someone earns a reward!
One of the boys who did receive a golden stick was Allen*. Allen initially struggled with bullying and not listening to his teachers when he was reprimanded. Over the past few months, we have seen such positive change. He now shows better manners, listens to his teachers, and even helps remind his classmates to do the same. While he still has off days, he knows the difference between right and wrong. We are so proud of this boy!
Theme of the month: Space
Space is a difficult concept to understand. The Amazing Brainz program makes it so much fun to learn more about space. Children had the opportunity to build their own spaceman, and a moon from paper plates, point some sand and glue. This was an exciting activity to see white and black paint turning grey when mixed.
Avodah
On September 6th, we held our annual Daisy Day, an awareness event for physically and intellectually disabled individuals. This day celebrates the abilities of our disabled members, focusing on their strengths rather than their limitations. It’s important for our community to understand the challenges these individuals face in their environment and to recognize the significance of the Avodah group, where they can find belonging and support.
As one of our values, we believe it is crucial to teach our members that they have a responsibility to spread the gospel of Jesus within their communities. Through lessons like the Armour of God, we emphasize the importance of “putting on the shoes of readiness” to share His Gospel with all nations. With this mission in mind, our group visited various businesses, schools, and organizations, spreading the good news of Jesus to everyone they met. We sang to these groups, prayed with them, and encouraged them in their daily walk, reminding them to always turn to Jesus for help and salvation.
Our group created small daisy flowers with scripture attached to hand out and bless everyone they encountered during the week’s outreach. The scripture reads, “I have loved you with an everlasting love; I have drawn you with unfailing kindness” (Jeremiah 31:3).
On behalf of everyone involved in Daisy Day, we extend our heartfelt thanks for your incredible support, generosity, and participation in this special event. Your kindness not only helped raise awareness but also spread the gospel of Jesus throughout our beloved Paarl Valley.
It was truly a blessing to witness our community come together in unity, showing love, faith, and compassion. With God’s help, we were able to touch many hearts.
Woman Ministry
This month, we had the special privilege of celebrating the 80th birthday of one of our cherished volunteers, Tannie Chrissie, who has been with our group for nearly 18 years. Her dedication to our ministry and her unwavering commitment to the children have been a true blessing. Over the years, Tannie Chrissie has loved and cared for so many children in our programs, including 4 of her own grandchildren and many of the neighbour’s kids who were also part of the ministry.
Her energy, kindness, and selflessness have left a lasting impact on both the children and the entire community. Tannie Chrissie embodies what it means to be a volunteer—giving of herself, not for recognition, but out of pure love and compassion. Volunteers like her are the heart of our organization, reminding us that we cannot care for these children on our own. Their presence and support are invaluable in shaping the lives of these young ones, offering them not only guidance but also the warmth of a caring heart.
Community Outreach
Ma’s vir Wellington actively supports our local prison ministries, recognizing that some of our children and beneficiaries have family members in prison. Reconciliation within families is deeply important to the Lord, and we are honoured to play a role in this process.
We are blessed to partner with organizations like Walking on Water and Hope Prison Ministries. These dedicated individuals walk alongside inmates both during their time in prison and after their release, offering restoration and hope not only to the inmates but also to the families of our beneficiaries.
As the cold weather lingers, we are grateful to be able to extend a helping hand by distributing much-needed clothes and shoes to those in our community facing hardship. These donations have brought hope and comfort to so many lives.
Together, we are making a difference, one warm smile at a time. A heartfelt thank you to everyone who contributes, shares, and supports this mission. Let’s continue to spread kindness and warmth!
Isaiah 61
The Spirit of the Sovereign Lord is upon me, for the Lord has anointed me to bring good news to the poor. He has sent me to comfort the broken hearted and to proclaim that captives will be released, and prisoners will be freed.
