2 Corinthians 12: 9 - But He said to me: “My grace is sufficient for you, for power is perfected in weakness”. Therefore, I will most gladly boast all the more about my weaknesses , so that Christ’s power may reside in me.
Which Bowl are You?
I just love this picture… it shows the diversity of who we are. These are the bowls of the children at the Mbava community where Pasture Valley has recently started to assist with feeding. Ninety two children were identified from this area and a shelter is being put up to act as a kitchen. Large pots have been bought and the community will assist with cooking a meal for the children.
I was talking with one of the children about not being ashamed of their background and where they come from. Instead they need to embrace their identity in Christ and know that they are amazing. Just like the bowls, we are unique and each has a purpose in life.
Reaching Out
One of the most valuable lessons we can teach our children is to reach out to others in need. We can educate, clothe and ensure that each child has food each day, but if we do not teach them to care for those around them, then they will grow to be selfish and unkind. During the school holiday the children went on 3 outreaches. Some of the children joined Peter and I at Siphofaneni where the Department of Social welfare had asked us to assist 14 child headed families. Our children were able to give each family an avocado tree, a guava tree and a banana plant as well as some maize seed, a hoe, a bag of toiletries and a food parcel, fruit and maize meal. Most importantly we were able to give each family a bible. Another group of children headed to Nsoko where they cleared some land and prepared a large vegetable garden that will serve as a community garden to feed orphan children. The children also planted some vegetable seedlings. The third team went with Aunty Princess to visit Sipho’s family and planted a fruit tree for them. They also went to be with Sipho and played games with him as he is disabled
In July a team from Kruispunt Church in South Africa came to Pasture Valley to serve for 2 weeks. During those 2 weeks the team helped to build a mud and stick home for Make (Mother) Motsa and her children and grandchildren. The mud needed to be mixed with a little cement and was then thrown onto the walls where the stones were put. I was humbled to be part of this. The team also bought kitchen supplies for Nokulunga school such as a microwave, mixers and baking trays and we were able to ice cupcakes and play games at the school. Other trips included visiting preschools and delivering food to schools. We really were blessed with the help.
Primary School Children Visit to Pasture Valley Farm
Pasture Valley has become a popular farm outing destination for school children. Amitofo children were given a tour of the calf cages, dairy, gardens and made crafts. The children had lots of fun.
Learning and Having Fun over the School Break
This holiday the children were taught about good stewardship and how to care for what they have been given. They also did mosaic crafts and had a books of the bible competition. Of course cooking and baking was also done which was much enjoyed and Aunty Eleanor did some self defence classes with the children while Aunty Mine showed the girls the finer side of dancing with ballet lessons. The boys (and girls) went fishing too and there was much excitement when one of the girls got a bite! The children were also offered the opportunity to learn about various career choices with a panel of people speaking about their careers such as IT, personal assistants, agriculture, engineering and Occupational therapy. Babe also gave a talk on different carpentry tools and how they can be used.
Two More Girls Join our Family at Ekuthuleni
Two more girls have joined Pasture Valley Girls Care Centre at Ekuthuleni. We receive calls weekly for spaces for more girls that need a placement due to abuse. There is a great need for the protection of these girls and to ensure that they can continue with their education.
Prayer Requests
- For the protection of the children as they return to school.
- Continued prayer for Happiness as she continues her chemotherapy and that she will have the strength to deal with the after effects of the treatment.
- For all the building projects at Pasture Valley.
- For protection of girls at Ekuthuleni.
- For strength and wisdom for all carers of the children.
- Praise for God’s provision.
- Gratefulness for teams and volunteers that come to help at Pasture Valley.
- For 2 of the children who have been reunited with their relatives due to certain circumstances.
- For Siyabonga as he adjusts to his new job at Bhunya Mill.
- For Sandile as he starts to take driving lessons this month.
- For the Bambanani project as we expand to other countries and areas.
- Praise for the recognition of the Pasture Valley documentary movie and for God’s blessing on it as it is being shown at various film festivals.
Credits:
Pasture Valley