Cape Town
Hi everyone!
We made it to South Africa! We took an overnight bus from Johannesburg and we didn't get into Cape Town until early Friday morning. (1 week and 1 day ago) It was a long couple days of travel and it was nice to finally make it here. Cape Town is not at all what I expected it to be. It is beautiful here. No, actually beautiful doesn't begin to describe. It is gorgeous here. We stepped off the metro and we saw the Indian ocean!!!! Turn around and you see a mountain. This place is amazing. It is a little on the chilly side though. I was expecting hot and humid, so I didn't pack any warm gear. I had to get some at the mall the other day.
The first full day we got to spend the day walking the beach and enjoying the beauty of God's creation around us. It was amazing. We are staying at a "Camp resort." (We didn't have to break out the tents yet.) We are split into different rooms, 4 people per room. Each room has 5 bunks and a bathroom connected to it. We all feel so spoiled.
There are two team together this month. This has been such a blessing for me. It is awesome to have all these people here for support. I have been working really close with the other team's treasurer. It is awesome to be able to bounce questions off each other.
We were finally able to start ministry Monday. This month we are able to partner with 2 different organizations. The first is called "Camp Joy."
Camp Joy is a safe, God centered place for those who are suffering from drug addiction and abuse. Participants in this 12 week program are there by their own personal choice. They came to the decision to enroll in Camp Joy because they were ready for a change.
These men and women are incredible. They are so open with their life stories, and they love the Lord. They aren't afraid to express there love for Him. That is the kind of faith I desire. They are also so strong. Many of them have been through so much, and hearing there stories is amazing. They have strong faith, stronger then my own faith. It makes me want more. I have been so blessed by them.
(Also on a side note, most people here speak English so we don't need translators.)
The other organization we are partnering with is New Chapter. Our host here in South Africa, Malcolm began this organization a few years back. Malcolm has worked with the small community of Phumlani and earned there trust enough to have a small community center. This community center is a safe place for the children of this community to thrive, play and be kids. I am excited to spend some time with these kids and just love them.
We don't have consistent internet access here, so I apologize for the long message, but there is so much to tell you.
I am doing well. I feel like we have crammed a months worth of activities in these past 2 week. We are always going. I am having the time of my life.
Mom, I got to run on the beach the other morning with my teammates. (Right next to the Indian ocean!!!) I thought of you.
Ryan, 25 months today. Thought of you.
I love you guys so much.
Love,
Paige
September 17, 2013
