After 6 months in Durban we all feel a sense of belonging and routine.
We have had a constant flow of visitors at our home, some staying for a meal, some staying the night.
But, the best personal news we have is that Chloe was baptized by her dad on January 21! Asking questions for months, we eventually realized she was really ready for this huge step. We are so thankful for her gentle, teachable heart and her desire to please God in all of life.
In April, Stephen and Esmé were surprised by an anonymous gift for much needed new glasses! Chloe received new glasses too. We were happy that kids under age 12 receive the eye test and glasses free of charge.
Chloe still excels at school and at gymnastics. At school she has completed all required Grade 5 work. Joseph is also doing much better in his new school, enjoys playing soccer with his friends and has also started beginner gymnastics.
With the end of June school has closed for the long winter holidays. Here in Durban it gets quite cold early morning and at night, but the days are still warm and bright. We are all excited for our upcoming road trip to Cape Town during these holidays to go see family, especially grandparents! Stephen and the kids have not been back there since our arrival in 2008, so it is time!
Thank you to all of you who make it possible for us to live and work here in southern Africa. May the Lord bless you in every way!
We are still convicted that we need to open up a safe house and transition home for abandoned babies, and as such we have to register as a “voluntary association.” It has taken us a while to get to know people and to be known at the local church.
Local Management Team
In that time, we have been able to form the new South African Mission Providence Management Team — a local entity required for formal application for non-profit status with the South African government. All five of the team members attend the Queen Mary Ave Church of Christ and have a passion for helping children. Three are elders’ wives, one is a high–school teacher and one is a medical doctor.
Waiting for NPO Status
Our South African constitution has been finalized and our application as a non-profit organization (NPO) has been sent to the South African government. While waiting for our official NPO number (similar to a non-governmental organization in the United States) we are meeting with and volunteering at other similar organizations here in Durban. One such organization that has helped us a great deal is Ithemba Lethu (Zulu for “I have a destiny”) where Stephen and Esmé volunteer weekly to learn their basic routine for caring for abandoned babies. It is so amazing to see these babies, unwanted and thrown away by their own family, thrive on the love and care they receive at this place. Just in the last week, seven abandoned babies have been found just around our neighbourhood. It is our dream to open a baby transition home in Durban in early 2012.