26 November 2022
The day had finally arrived…our annual Hlanganani Christmas celebration! The day dawned with dark, cloudy skies…would the weather hold out? Our kiddos were so excited for a day of swimming, fun on a slip ‘n slide, and of course, wonderful, delicious food! The weather was kind to us, and the kids got to enjoy all of the above. Tummies filled with chicken, coleslaw, watermelon, and chips was a great way to celebrate the year! And of course, an amazing cake from “Jessie’s Treats” in Douglasdale – thank you!
It was really special to be able to pray over and baptize 15 children, each child making a declaration to follow God and live a life that is pleasing to Him. Our prayer is that He will envelop each and every one in His love and protection.
A few serious matters also had to be discussed, specifically around the teenagers trying their best to improve their school grades next year and committing to making a greater effort in school or discussing with us an alternative route. The discussion was rounded up with a teaching from John 15 – Jesus is the “vine, and we are the branches” – the importance of being connected to Him in order to grow and have a fruitful life. Fun word searches and colouring sheets were enjoyed by all.
The day ended with the much-anticipated Christmas boxes! Hlanganani Orphan Care was incredibly blessed to receive support from Junction Church in Dainfern, where some of their members generously helped gift Christmas boxes to our children. Lovely items such as t-shirts, flip flops, small toys, tasty sweets, and essentials such as toiletries and stationery filled the colourfully wrapped boxes. The kids, young and old, were so excited; as each parcel was handed out, loud cheers and clapping were heard from and for each child!
Last but not least, as the children got ready to head home, those old enough got a fresh round of donated toilet paper packs to sell in their informal businesses – learning valuable entrepreneurial skills and making monies to spend on necessities and things they enjoy! It was an awesome day….now, time for a nap! 😉
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