Merry Christmas 2015

One child's story

Bhutana's Story: From Orphan to Community Leader

Ravaged by the HIV/AIDS pandemic, Swaziland has the highest HIV/AIDS rate in the world, leaving thousands of children — 12% of the population — without parents.

But we believe God has a redemptive plan for Swaziland.

Adventures began working in Swaziland in 2004. Today our 34 strategically placed Carepoints feed and educate over 6000 children throughout the country. But even more important than a full stomach and an education, every student who attends a Carepoint experiences something even more precious: unconditional, life-changing love.

For students like Bhutana, that love has the power to change lives.

The youngest of 8 children, Bhutana lost his parents as a boy. Not long after, his family fell apart — along with his hope for the future. Life became about survival.

Then, one day, he was invited to a Carepoint.

There, he found a safe place to play with his friends. He received a hot meal, but more importantly, he received love — something he’d never experienced from someone outside of family.

But his story didn’t end there.

After graduating high school, Bhutana entered the Swaziland Leadership Academy, a 3 year apprenticeship for high school graduates from communities with an Adventures Carepoint. There, he was discipled, developed as a leader, and empowered in his calling.

Currently in his second year of SLA, Bhutana now teaches at the same Carepoint he attended. He coaches soccer and mentors, tutors, and disciples the children, making a difference in the lives of hundreds of orphans every day.

Adventures Carepoints offered him opportunity for a better life. Now, Bhutana is raising up the next generation.

Write Reminder

Today is a great day to write your special friend at Lesibovu! If you aren't sure how to write or what to say, here are some simple tips. Keep it simple and short if you are not totally comfortable. Practice will help. Just do it! You can't imagine how much your note will mean to your sponsored child! I just wrote our sweet Nomazwi. I included a photo for her will bring a smile to her face, and it took maybe five minutes of my time to just let her know things that are happening in our family, and to remind her of some Truth to encourage her. Go here, and write today! http://hopechest.org/get-involved/write-your-child/

Prayers Answered and Needs Met

What a great week for supporting Swaziland! Let me share:

I mentioned the need for some folks to make prayer shawls and loveys for our precious friends at Lesibovu. I have already received 5 gorgeous shawls that are going to bless the socks of some wonderful ladies. Look at them below!

Then, God sent thirsty and generous people so that we raised over $1100 through lemonade stands this weekend! We are truly grateful and appreciate your faithful service to those in Swaziland. Praise God for your obedience!

Ride for Hope recap

June 20, 2015, Grace Klein Community hosted a motorcycle ride and bike show in support of a Grace Klein Community team, who plan to travel and minister at the Lesibovu Carepoint in Swaziland this fall.

The motorcycle ride began at Pelham’s Heart of Dixie Harley-Davidson and ended at The Church at Shelby Crossings in Calera. Approximately 30 bikers and riders participated, with many families coming out to enjoy the bike show afterward.
The team was incredibly grateful for another opportunity to share about Lesibovu with many folks who had never before heard of the outreach in Swaziland. The Lesibovu Carepoint ministers to many villagers, including widows and orphans.
Roughly $1500 was raised through the Ride for Hope event.
 

A special thank you to our sponsors who made this event possible:

• Christian Brothers Automotive
• Designer Awards & Trophies
• Up In Smoke BBQ
• Carmell Cantrell, First Federal Mortgage
• Trey Horton, InterLinc Mortgage
• The Church at Shelby Crossings
• Crystal Storey, Arbonne
• Created for a Purpose Cooperative
• Sunset Salon
• Woodrow Health Consulting
• McCay Family
• Lund Accounting
• McKinnon Nissan
• Salon 31
• Pub 261
• Synergy Photo
• Coulter-Galloway Family
• Smokin’ Vapor
• Frios Pops
• Pelham Family Chiropractic
• Grace Klein Community

Boys' Choir from Lesibovu

Ride for Hope Motorcycle Ride and Lunch 2015

Hey everyone! We have to submit the count to our caterer soon so please order by Thursday am if you want plates. We appreciate those who have ordered already! Click photo for details!