It’s my first two week trip to Ntshongweni over the 16 years we’ve been coming. Such a gift to have this time. Feeling blessed to have been weaved into this story from halfway around the world.
Gogo Ntinga-
Pastor Thwala reached out last night asking, what time will you arrive in Ntshongweni in the morning? He asked me to wear nicer clothes because we would be visiting Gogo Ntinga. Gogo recently lost her sister, brother and son. She’s super emotional and grief stricken. You can see her emotion in this photo.
After visiting, singing, and praying together, Gogo was in a better place. I asked pastor after we left how they met. Gogo worked as a refuse collector for Ntshongweni and pastor met her in front of his house. In the Zulu way, whenever they saw each other they would speak and learn more. Such community here, see in the photo below how being together in love creates joy in a dark situation.
“Whoever dwells in the shelter of the Most High will rest in the shadow of the Almighty. I will say of the Lord, “He is my refuge and my fortress, my God, in whom I trust.””
Psalms 91:1-2 NIV
Ntshongweni Crèche-
On our trip here last November, Alex and Lauren were drawn to the preschool kids and spent quite some time with them. Joyful little ones who love attention.
It prompted Jessica and I to desire supporting the preschool team more in loving these kids. Principal Ntombifuthi, Assistant Mpume, teacher Ntokozo, teacher Lungi, chef Nomthandazo, gardener Guduza, Rhonda, and Jessica have all worked together to help spread love to these little ones. When they started there were 29 kids attending and now there are 64. Wow… I love being there with them but my gift isn’t teaching preschoolers. Love giving hugs and playing though.
Great progress with doing learning centers, having one person arrive the kids and do activities in the fellowship hall while the other teachers prepare, organizing all of the learning materials into themes. Such a joy seeing these kids respond.
“Start children off on the way they should go, and even when they are old they will not turn from it.”
Proverbs 22:6 NIV
Senior class dedication-
We were able to attend the Woza Moya and Albini High School senior class dedication. With prayers, singing, and much advice for the kids from many local leaders. It was beautiful to see these kids in such a challenging environment be filled with hope and joy on a very hot day.
Painting Aubrey’s house-
Aubrey’s home was destroyed by a tornado a couple of years ago. We had the opportunity to paint his new home and spend time with Aubrey, his wife, Sanele, Mlondi and Pastor Thwala. It turned out great.
South African experiences-
While painting and repairing the lights in the front of the house, I had to get with google to understand wiring in South Africa. Red/black or brown/blue. A bit different than the USA.
Read your own electric meter and WhatsApp the power company, otherwise get a big “estimated” bill.
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