Amanzi - The Water of life continues to flow

Below is an article that was to appear in the Christadelphian Magazine - it, may be a few months after the event, but the power and love that started there is still being felt, especially now as groups of P2P volunteers are spread across the country sharing the Good News of the Kingdom of God (more posts on this soon).

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What a way to start 2008! Amanzi (“Water” in Zulu) was the first ever International Christadelphian Youth Conference - with 250 people from more than 10 different countries converging on the south coast of KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa.

The main studies were led by Bro. Craig Blewett (South Africa) on "Much much more than you imagine" and Bro. Shane Kirkwood (Australia) on "Lessons from Timothy".  Craig's Kingdom vision and Shane's thoughtful words regarding lessons for young people were both inspiring and practical.  A feast of other spiritual and fellowship activities, in the company of young people from different backgrounds, was certainly a “life-changing” experience.

Well done to those visionary and hardworking committee members who made it all happen … Thanks to our South African brethren and sisters who were the very best hosts … Our commendation to Amanzi attendees whose behavior was exemplary … And above all our thanks and praise to God and His Son for giving the increase.

The Amanzi Conference energy continued to flow as during the next two weeks it was time for 10 x P2P (Prepared to Preach) Teams to preach the good news of the Kingdom of God all around South Africa – after a year of intensive preaching training programs in Australia and America.

The 10 teams spent a week each on various projects, including Thembisa Orphanage, Kingdom Youth FC, Lamontville PreSchool, Mason Lincoln School for Disabled, Umlazi Tent Ministry, Margate Creche, Candu and Bible Education Centres.  Everywhere we went we saw people and cars branded with the "Good News of the Kingdom of God".

The impact this preaching had on the young people involved and the communities they were working in was immeasurable…

"P2P was incredible, I never imagined it would have such an impact on me and my life. Even though everything has been happening in my country I was quite apprehensive to get involved. I now feel so much more confident when telling people about The Kingdom of God...." (Rachel Bamber, South Africa)

"The Kingdom of God on Earth. That is what my time in Africa gave me a glimpse of! The smiles, the willing and helping hands, the hugs, the constant conversations revolving around our LORD and his plans, the praise, the laughter, the joy! I just can’t wait to see what more God has in store for us!! :) My magic moment was in the form of a tiny little boy. We were running a holiday "Kids Club" for the Umlazi kids and one of the activities was a prayer group. We asked the kids to say the one thing that they would like to pray to God for...more than anything else in the world. Instead of wanting to be a better soccer player, or to be rich, this little one's hearts desire was for "every man to be with his God." (Melody Kingston, Australia).

And the response of the communities?

"I'm unable to say thank you to you all for what you've done. One thank you is not enough for everything you've given us....I wish I had a thousand mouths, so I could give you a thousand thank you's...What is most amazing about what you've given us, is that you came here spending your time, energy and skills in service. You could've just sent a cheque...but instead you came here to see the children, and to lend your skills. And your skills, especially in this country, are priceless." (Nick Morgan on behalf of Leonard from Umlazi)

May God continue to bless us all as we seek to grow in love and share His Good News with many more.  Please visit www.gnotkog.org to find out more about the South African Project “2010x2010” and P2P activities.  The South African brethren and sisters need all the help they can and the opportunities are overflowing, waiting for field workers right now!

"I tell you, take a good look at the fields; the crops are now ripe and ready to be harvested!" - Jesus (John 4:35)

Peter and Hilary Osborn (Amanzi hosts)

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