Thankful Hearts
“Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.“
This verse, found in 1 Thessalonians 5:18, epitomizes how we teach the children to live. Having an attitude of thankfulness and gratitude for all things great and small, despite the different difficulties and challenges we face, will help us have greater joy in life. On this note, the children recently wrote many beautiful letters of thanks! We also wanted to express our gratitude for the part you play in supporting the work we do to empower the children… it truly makes a difference in their lives.
Wholeness – Mind, Body, & Soul
Laughter and shouts ricocheted off the walls. The teams were neck to neck, many points were at stake, and this was the last competition of the two-day winter holiday club… the Orange team had done it! They had worked well together and won! Shouts of victory floated high.
The holiday club days had been balanced with the mornings focused on teaching the children how to find “Wholeness in Christ.” A healing workshop designed specifically for children and teens, helping to bring them freedom from their emotional, mental, and physical ailments. The children came away from each session seemingly lighter and happier than before.
The afternoons were spent on teaching them new skills – the teenagers all learned how to crochet mats (using old material strips)…something they can sell in their communities to make extra pocket money. They had fun learning the names of the continents and oceans through a crazy, but fun scavenger hunt – can you say “controlled chaos!” Our time ended with a debate, teaching them the skills of public speaking and expressing their opinions clearly. The little ones had a blast with beads, paints, bible stories, mask making, and many other fun activities. A big thank you to everyone who made this event possible!
Each Precious Soul
Within minutes of getting in the car, she stated, “I know why you wanted me to visit you. It’s because I’ve tried to hurt myself many times, right?” We talked about her struggles, how she was being bullied for being an orphan, and teased for being illiterate. Being a teenager is hard enough without these extra burdens to carry.
Precious* lives with her aunt and uncle, their three children, her sister, and three other cousins, all in a small tin house. Her mom died when she was young, and her father was never in the picture (an all too common scenario). Her three cousins have only recently came back to stay with them as their gogo (grandmother), who was watching them, passed away. Money is scarce, so the aunt became a sangoma (traditional healer), which, when ‘praying’ to one’s ancestors, has brought many other difficult spiritual elements into their lives.
The last of the three cousins is in the process of being enrolled in our orphan care program. A place where we strive to teach the girls that blessings and healing don’t have to be paid for through sangomas, but that Jesus has already paid the price for their freedom, so that they can have joy and acceptance in Him! We are seeing the difference in their lives… beforehand, Precious did not smile for three years when attending mentoring… she now comes up to us to show us her latest drawings, all with a big grin! Your continued prayers for them are appreciated, that they will all find peace in their hearts, souls, and minds.
*Name changed to protect identity.
Glorious Warm Jackets & Blankets!
It does not take much to be thoughtful, loving, and kind. Donations of simple necessities such as toothpaste, soap, and deodorant go a long way. This cold winter… the gift of warm jackets and fluffy blankets went a long way to show the children that they are seen, cared for, and thought of. Thank you for this kindness shown, we appreciate it! Please email Kirsten Gray at info@hlanganani.org for any questions related to how you can support the children of Hlanganani or drop off donations for them.
