Unsung Heroes was a really inspiring month because I got to see dozens of really neat ministries in action here in South Africa. Most recently, I visited Hope Alive, a ministry that serves the Mamilode township, particularly those affected by AIDS and TB. Their mobile clinic offers free selenium treatments, treatments that (as best I can tell) can completely eliminate the HIV virus in many cases. They also empower people to support themselves by making handmade jewelry, shoes, and soap specially formulated for treating AIDS. Additionally, Hope Alive builds church buildings and educates the community regarding AIDS.
Another ministry I really enjoyed was under the umbrella of OM (Operation Mobilization). This ministry reaches out to foreigners in South Africa, which are plentiful. People from all over Africa flood here looking for work, and the largest Indian community in the world outside of India is here in South Africa. The ministry builds relationships with vendors at Green Market Square, the largest market in Cape Town. They then share Christ, share life, and share wisdom about running a business. They also host outreaches among the many Muslim communities, showing the Jesus film and getting local churches involved.
One last ministry I will tell you about is the Hillsong Africa Foundation. You may have heard of Hillsong before—they have churches all over the world and produce some really good music. Well I got to attend two Hillsong church services, and they were a real treat, but I also got to meet with their outreach coordinator to learn about their various outreaches. They use sports to reach out to local youth, building relationships, teaching life skills, and sharing Jesus. They have a wheelchair ministry, giving wheelchairs to people who were previously constrained by their situation. They sponsor an orphanage for children with disabilities. They reach out to communities wholistically, bringing healing in every area. And they have some amazing internships—anybody interested? 😀
That’s a brief snapshot of what I’ve been up to this month (finding such ministries). More soon.
Love yall!
Katie
