Ride for Hope 2016

Summer 2016 Update

Hi friends! We received an email from our HopeChest contact here in the US with an update from the field staff at Lesibovu (in their exact words). Read it below and be encouraged! (Caregivers are the cooks/bomakes at the carepoint)

"Recently, 141 children dewormed, 10 treated for chest pains and cough, 5children treated for ringworms, 10 children treated for sores
This CP have put all thoughts together against the kingdom of darkness. Prayers goes to God to keep the whole CP body together, and that God may grant His mercy and grace abundantly.

The Caregivers of Lesibovu have shown so much interest in getting involved with any program taking place for the ministry. There is generally two programs that goes throughout the year; Ngesikhatsi [A journey to healing in the arms of Time] and the Sisekelo Setfu lessons [Our Foundation, in Christ]. This month the Caregivers made sure that they are done cooking in time so that they join the children class for lessons. Their interest brought so much courage to the children in behaving during the Shepherds teaching and also prove a point by asking solid questions. We love seeing the Caregivers partaking in the discipleship lessons because their presence brings honor and order to the children. Children started to take this time of bible stories very serious.

Here are some of the lessons that have been shared with the children at Lesibovu recently;

God is our Protector: Children will learn what protection is and help them gain understanding on what God’s protection in our lives looks like. It will explore the various ways in which we can seek protection, as children of God. Memory Verse: Psalm 91:14b

Jesus is our Friend: Children will understand that Jesus is our friend who cares and helps us to grow spiritually. Children will see practical examples of how they can know Him more personally. Memory Verse: Psalms 25:14"

HopeChest's Impact and Mission

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!