September 2024

“Two are better than one because they have a good return for their labor; for if either of them falls, the one will lift up his companion . . . . A cord of three strands is not quickly torn apart.” Ecc. 4:9; 12

Teamwork

Hands of Hope believes in working as a team. This year we are emphasizing teamwork and building high preforming teams in projects. In residential projects this will be done through:

• Cooperation- This means teams in projects are to make a conscious decision to work together through sharing ideas and supporting each other for the common good of the project.

• Goal setting- For a team to work together they should have a goal to work towards. We encourage leaders of teams to set known goals which are measurable and achievable.

• Children’s participation- For a project to grow, there is need to involve children in decision making and goal setting. This will make children feel valued and they will know that projects are for their benefit and not the benefit of the leaders.

• Partnerships- Creating networks outside the local church for the benefit of the project.

At the heart of all activities at our Transformational Church Centers is the spiritual aspect of learning. We have been utilizing a children’s church program called AWANA which has had a positive impact on the lives of children from challenging backgrounds. It has provided them with a platform to interact and share their struggles with each other and their teachers. We are delighted to announce that 17 children from our Green Valley TC were baptized in June. The children have become committed and dedicated members of the Church of the Nazarene. We have various children's clubs in our projects, including soccer, netball, and choirs, which have played a significant role in attracting children to join church families. These clubs have helped the children feel loved and provided them with a sense of belonging. Additionally, the clubs serve as a form of therapy. Any child experiencing difficulties is identified during club activities, and counseling sessions are conducted to support them.

On the same Sunday that Green Valley Church baptized 17 children there were 18 adults baptized as well. Garikai our Hands of Hope National Director who you see pictured in the white shirt planted Green Valley not long after we purchased our 134-acre Habitation of Hope Camp. We long for community transformation through the gospel of the Lord Jesus. You are teammates with us and your prayers and support enable us to carry out God’s eternal plans!

For Jesus’ sake and for the children,
Glen and Patty