UMC has been buzzing these past few weeks with a number of exciting things on the go. Yesterday was our family fun day, and we have really enjoyed seeing home groups, friends, and individuals planning and preparing their events for the day. It is so special to come together as a community and ‘play’. A big thank you to all who helped make it happen, as well as those who came to take part. 

Part of the day included the launch of one of the Khanyisa projects, which is to help people dream and start up their own small businesses. Maggie (who is employed as our church cleaner) and Nonny (our Upper Room Barista) have been learning baking skills from Paula (the chef who works from our church kitchen) and small business skills from Wendy (a member of our congregation and experienced entrepreneur). At the family day they set up their very first stall for their baking business ‘Siyaphambili’ (we are moving on). The hope is that, not only will they learn and grow in this adventure, but the Khanyisa Small Business Development will learn some good lessons, and be able to provide others with similar opportunities. 

The week ahead holds more for Khanyisa. We will hold our first Khanyisa Teacher Training workshop at the church this week. Seven teachers from local crèches around Umhlali will be coming to develop their skills in Early Childhood Development. Some of you spent time in the Upper Room last week, making resources for this workshop – thank you! Please remember this workshop and these teachers in your prayers in the week ahead. 

And then lastly, as many of you know, our little Anna spent some time in hospital last week with pneumonia. She is home and has recovered well. Thank you so very much for all the love, care, phone calls, messages, emails, visits, meals, thoughts and prayers. We have felt thoroughly loved and cared for this week, and it has meant so much to our whole family. Thank you.