We give thanks to our Lord for a blessed first half of 2025!
It was a significant breakthrough for us when we were able to offer a Teachers Training (TT) program on the campus of the University of the Western Cape. My colleague in the Western Cape, Nyameka Sonti, has worked tirelessly for this initiative. It was conducted in collaboration with the Faculty of Education for a group of education students—exactly the people we aim to equip to bring the Gospel to children. One lady in the group was from an alternative faith community, and she participated wholeheartedly. I would love to hear her story, but so far, it has not been possible.
From Classrooms to Churches: CrossRoads Training Opens New Doors Across South Africa
Our second opportunity came at the invitation of a church in Durban. The initiative was led by the wife of the Senior Pastor, who holds a position at the Department of Health and Welfare. She participated enthusiastically in everything and expressed her desire to be more involved with CrossRoads in the future.
It was truly special to witness the enthusiasm and insight of Christians, and how they immediately recognize opportunities to apply the material in the community. Within three weeks of our visit, this church used the CrossRoads material to hold an outreach in Richards Bay. I’m not exactly sure how they did it, but they claim to have engaged with several schools and churches. The pastor’s wife, through whom we connected, can be seen on the far right of the stage in action! On the left, you can see me with four of my “Lead Trainers” at CrossRoads. All of them are volunteers.
Click on the images below to enlarge.
Equipping Hearts and Minds: God’s Hand at Work Through CrossRoads in 2025
At the end of June, we had the opportunity to present the program for youth workers from a group of churches in Qwa Qwa. It was biting cold, with snow on the Maluti Mountains and faucets frozen in the mornings. Although the conditions were modest and resources limited, the experience was enriching and positive. People were trying to read their notes in the dark cold with the light from their cell phones, but they were surprisingly well-versed in good theology. It was clear that the Lord had arrived long before we did.
Our hope is that the CrossRoads material will create new opportunities for them to reach the youth in the community. A special surprise for me was when two young men asked for continued discipleship.
May the Lord be glorified through it all!
Marais Koegelenberg
National CrossRoads Coordinator