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Together as One
Written by Mark Hunt   
Tuesday, 19 August 2008

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Dancers dance with flags in front of the stage.

Saturday 9 August 2008 - A small group from our parish attended Angus Buchan's "Together as One" rally at the ABSA Stadium. (or as the MC suggested: "The KING's Park". The 72 000 attendees were treated to rousing praise and worship music and dancers, until the main programme began. Unfortunately the swirling wind distorted the music somewhat, which contributed to some of the crowd being dissatisfied with the first part of the programme. Possibly, if the event is repeated, one could make better use of the time while the bands performed, to browse the many stalls of the Ministries Fair, which was set up around the outskirts of the stadium. These exhibits included The Bible Society of South Africa, Ethelbert's Children's Home, Focus on the Family Africa, Open Doors, Chinese Church Support, and many, many others. Nonetheless as the afternoon progressed, we were all drawn into the communal spirit of worship. Highlights included a Dedication to the Women of Africa by young Toni Goldswain who sang her self penned song "Children of Africa".

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A view of part of the 72 000 strong crowd
 

Then it was time for Angus Buchan to address the crowd. I was standing in coffee queue when his first thunderous AMEN echoed through the stadium. Coffee forgotten, I joined the rapt audience. Once more his message was strong and simple. He challenged those leaving the country, and warned South Africans to stop looking back over their shoulders, otherwise "your plough would go skew!" He suggested that once a personal relationship with the Lord is established, one would ask less questions - and LOVE and TRUST for the Lord would propel our nation forward in unity. The next Mighty Men Conference date has been set at 8-10 May 2009.

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Masumbuko Wedding
Written by Mark Hunt   
Thursday, 14 August 2008

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The newly married Jean-Marie and Marlene Masumbuko
 

Saturday 26th July 2008 was a happy day for Jean-Marie and Marlene. The rainy weather cleared to a beautiful warm day in Pinetown. Jean-Marie Masumbuko married Spes Marlene Ndayisenga to the delight of their family and friends who witnessed their sacrament of love. Jean-Marie is our parish Maintenance Manager. Both he and his lovely wife are from Burundi, to where they would like to return one day. Fr Justin officiated assisted by Brother David. A small band of youths from St Vincents Orphanage entertained the couple and congregation with song. There was a small reception in the church hall where we were able to greet and congratulate the happy couple. Following their photo session - Jean-Marie and Marlene hosted a second reception in Durban where most of their refugee community friends could join in the festive celebrations. We were treated to some of the interesting Burundi customs. One of which was a kind of bantering debate between representatives from both families. Joseph, Marlene's brother, spoke on her behalf. The celebrations continued late into the evening. Congratulations Jean-Marie and Marlene!

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Christian Life Programme
Written by Mark Hunt   
Wednesday, 06 August 2008

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The joyful group
 

A Christian Life Programme (CLP) was held on the 11, 12 and 13th July. The programme was run by the Couples for Christ (CFC) missionaries and their team. This was the second CLP run in our parish - and the 'households', (Small Christian Communities) that were formed after the first CLP last year, had the opportunity to host and participate in this one. For most of us doing the 'talks' it was a terrifying experience with most speakers sharing from their hearts. However, the results were really inspirational: with another three households formed. The praise and worship led by Errol Martinez was lively and set the tone for the weekend. A huge thankyou needs to be expressed to the rest of the team who contributed in so many ways behind the scenes: from prayer 'warriors' to the refreshments - the team effort allowed the programme to run flawlessly.

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Michael Ariola shares using amusing stories to illustrate his message.

The following weekend, the combined group got together at a bring and share braai at the Paradise Valley boma. The mood was jovial around the roaring fire with songs and great fellowship. We are eternally grateful to the Holy Spirit for filling us all with a thirst for Christian fellowship and instilling in us all  the recognition of the need to strengthen our family units. The 5 households now meet once a week to follow the programme given to us by the Couples For Christ team.

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