The Rudolph’s, who run the Temane Orphanage, traveled from Mozambique to South Africa to help us purchase supplies. As we shopped for boxes, toothbrushes, and other items we watched in awe as we continued to spend, but our money continued to multiply, going further than we ever dreamt. God’s provision was incredible! In addition to our anticipated program expenses, we were also able to provide such needs as shoes, rain jackets, backpacks, school uniforms, notebooks, glue and erasers. Each of these items offers yet another opportunity to teach them responsibility and ownership.
Kara and I arrived at Temane Orphanage, MZ, on Friday, March 6th. The reunion was joyful and long anticipated. Greeting each child, we thanked God that they were healthy. Most were just as we remembered, if not a bit taller.
Raise UP! Began on Saturday. We presented each child with a clear plastic box containing basic toiletries. The children were informed of the expectations and the rewards that would follow the meeting of these expectations. It is wonderful to see the children emerge from their tent, boxes in hand and head toward the shower. We then check that the boxes are clean and all its contents are inside before giving rewards to encourage this good habit.
Sunday was for each of us the best World Race day thus far. We washed each child’s feet and slipped new crocs over their toes. Handing out backpacks, rain jackets and school supplies, we saw the gratitude radiate from each child’s face. As we placed each new item in their waiting hands, we instructed them on how to care for them.
Over the last two days we have watched the children take great care of all their new belongings. Shoes are washed daily, backpacks and school supplies are put away.
Jaco, Maria, and Eric have done an amazing job raising these children. The foundation they are laying is solid in the knowledge of God. Through Raise UP! we have the privilege of coming along side and supporting this process. God is using Raise UP! To provide practical needs that express His love. Each night after dinner, the children gather around and break out into a sing-a-long/dance party of praise for what God has done. They stand and express thanks for big things such as their new shoes and rain jackets, as well as small blessings like arriving home safely from school. God is at work here in Temane, and we count ourselves lucky to be a part of what he is doing.
Thank you again to all who were faithful to obey the voice of God and generously bless these children.
