HELPERS OF THE FATHERLESS

‘The helpless commits himself to you; you are the helper of the fatherless’ were the words being spoken by the congregation in Grahamstown cathedral, South Africa, as I walked in (late) to their morning service in August. I was with Jane Bradshaw (The Principal of Amasango School for street-children) and Llewellyn, a 19 year-old past pupil. We were late because on the way to church we had called in to the drug rehab centre to collect Llewellyn, who was not ready when we arrived. He came, a bit grumpily at first. Llewellyn is an orphan. His life has been very troubled, and Amasango has been there for him over the years. After leaving a reform school he chose to undertake a 4 week drug rehab programme, supported by Jane. It was a great privilege to sit next to him as we worshipped that Sunday morning; to join with others to pray for him and to listen to him talk over a coffee afterwards. He is a lovely, kind, generous person; a great dancer. He really wants to make some­thing of his life, and is welcoming the practical, medical and spiritual help offered to him. A week later he left drug rehab, clean, and moved in with an older past pupil who will help him to stay clean. He is helping out at Amasango, in return for food. Jane will help him get back to High School, into a dance group, and to stay close to God through prayer.

Two cheerful Amasango pupils

Two years ago I told you about Zalisile, who was being supported by Amasango in selling his pottery. I was saddened last year to hear he had disappeared. But now he is back, making pots, helping out at school, and doing pretty well.

This year I met Sinovuoyo, 10 years old, who started at Amasango while I was there, and latched onto me. She’s lively, confident, lovely – and Amasango is opening a door for a bright future for her.

It is their Christian faith that motivates Jane & her staff to help these helpless children.

Kate with Sinovuoyo

Through their own experience of the love of Jesus and the power of the Spirit in their lives, they have been given the vision, love, perseverance, hope and skill to stay alongside troubled teenagers with turbulent lives.

Through their consistent persevering love and care and through their prayers, they create a secure, safe space in which children’s lives are turned round.

Before leaving Grahamstown, I visited a monastery where I saw a wooden sculpture of the child Jesus and His mother. This African toddler Jesus looks out at the world from His mother’s arms with delight, faith, hope and love.

The African Jesus & His Mother

He helped me realise afresh how wonderful it is to be a Christian: to discover the joy and freedom of being loved unconditionally, the thrill of being part of the Father’s loving care for all and of seeing lives transformed.

If you want to find out about the difference being a Christian can make in your life, do come to our Alpha Course on Thursday evenings at my house this October. For more info ring me on 840262.

Rev’d Kate Mier

And a little bit of Kate’s safari too