"Put on then, as God's chosen ones, holy and beloved, compassionate hearts, kindness, humility, meekness and patience..." - Colossians 3:12
THE OFFICE TEAM
This team of people often worksbehind the scenes to keep everything up to date and running on the farm! Our three powerful social workers: Minenhle, Aunty Princess and Vamile, Bongiwe our receptionist, Eleanor who helps with all the finances, Make and Babe, and of course little Toby who keeps everyone bright and smiling! We almost had a new addition to our security team as well... but that would have been cheating :)
A PICTURE OF DAILY LIFE AT PV
The children wake up for Babe Peter's inspection at 6am before heading off to school. Some stay at home and get ready for home schooling or creche. In the afternoons, there are sports activities or arts and crafts. They also still need to do chore time! On weekends, they clean up their houses for the weekly inspection competition, which is afterwards rewarded by getting to watch a movie. Sometimes they may also get to go on a hike with Uncle John! On Sundays, everyone attends farm church. During holidays the kids will mostly help out around the farm, accompany on outreaches, or take part in the holiday program organised by Cara.
CULTURAL DAY
As part of their siSwati language classes, the children and teachers pulled off an entire cultural day complete with traditional costumes, traditional dances, a guest speaker, and they ended off with a tasting of the Swazi food and delicacies. The teachers put in a lot of the work, and the children danced beautifully! We are so proud of all of them, and grateful for the opportunity to celebrate their culture!
HOME SCHOOLING HERE WE COME
After almost 2 years with very little schooling and education happening (due to Covid, riots, more covid, and more riots), the decision was made to start homeschooling as many children as possible just to ensure that they would get an education. The curriculum was ordered from South Africa, teachers hired, and the classes began! Although it has been tough on the children to adjust to a new way of learning, they are receiving plenty of support and we hope that this will stand them in good stead in the future. They also get to partake in sports now! Some have been learning to swim, some do athletics, some are learning tennis, and others are tapping into their artistic side in the drama, art and music classes.
MCCUBBIN TRIP TO THE USA
At the end of February, the McCubbins left Pasture Valley in the capable hands of the wonderful staff and volunteers. From Wisconsin to Texas to Florida, we were so blessed with the time that we got to spend with all the special people who have been praying for and supporting Pasture Valley in so many ways. We are overwhelmed with gratitude for the friendships that God has grown in our lives, and for the work that He is accomplishing in the US through these people, in their separate ministries.
FUTURE BREADWINNERS (AND BAKERS)
Menzi and Lindani are in Form 5 and will hopefully finish off this month! Michael has just finished his course at STREEC and has started his internship in renewable energy systems installation. Not only that, but now all three of them know how to bake their own bread!
PRESCHOOL WORKSHOP
We hosted another preschool workshop for the teachers in our community. The presentations included practical ideas for crafts and to keep their learners interested in the lessons. Afterwards, they received prizes and gift packs. We hope that they will feel encouraged to continue serving Jesus by teaching the future generation.
PRAYER REQUESTS
PLEASE PRAY:
- For the new high school graduates (Lindani, Image, Anele, Thabiso, Lungile and Sibusiso) as they plan their futures. That God would open up opportunities for them now that they have completed school.
- Prayers of thanks for the peace in our country recently.
- For the teachers and students of Pasture Valley home-school who are adapting to a new curriculum.
- Thankfulness for the PV staff and volunteers, and that God would continue to send the right people to work at Pasture Valley.
Credits:
Pasture Valley