I have some wonderful news! You will remember that in our previous newsletter we had asked for some special financial assistance to get the roof repaired of the “Share tears and grow” safehouse for abandoned and abused children here in Nelmapius? We had some wonderful help from a few overseas supporters and together with the local gifts we surpassed our target this week!! What a great Christmas gift!! Many thanks to all of you who gave a helping hand and a special word of thanks to Hart voor Kinderen in the Netherlands. We are hopeful that the work on the roof will start soon. We will keep you informed!

We also had such a remarkable experience a few weeks ago when we were visiting friends in Clarens. We were privileged to watch the Midlands Chamber Choir giving a performance of Handel’s Messiah.

The public watched in awe throughout the excellent performance. I must also say that the acoustics inside the little church in Clarens were very good. No need for any sound installation. It was an amazing performance, and the choir received a long and loud applause when the last “Hallelujah” was sung. 

The director then asked the public in the church if anyone had ever sung the “Hallelujah” (from Handel). What happened next was really something out of this world.  The choir divided itself up and went in between the public, as per alt, soprano and tenor and everyone then sang along. Watch the video below.

As we all sang the “Hallelujah” (Praise the Lord) together, we all felt the Spirit of God really coming down on us. Towards the end I could not sing anymore, because of the lump in my throat. I saw people with tears in their eyes and I am sure many felt the shivers along their spines, as I did. It was an unforgettable experience. So beautiful.

Jesus: our Wonderful Councilor, our Strong God, our Everlasting Father, the Prince of Peace (Isaiah 9:6).

Psalm 22:3 mentions that God actually lives and dwells in our praises. This is the mystery and the miracle of the breakthrough power and presence of God when we worship! When we worship, we affirm the truth of God’s Word, and it is being rooted deep in our hearts. Praise causes the presence of the Lord to come into our midst. When we praise, God comes in and leads us forth…our spirits are raised and our faith and trust increase.

Christ came into the world to bring us peace, no matter what the circumstance or chaos around us. Let us all celebrate Christmas again!

Wishing you a blessed Christmas and God’s richest for the year ahead! Please drive carefully and stay safe.

Henry and Annette