Pastor Sabelo Dladla leads the Heavenly Grace Church in KwaNdengezi, Durban, South Africa. The church is located in a rural area on the edge of a ravine. Heavy rains in 2022 and again in 2023 caused the old church building to collapse.
When Paul Stanley (Carson Oaks Community Church, Stockton, CA) and I (Scott Soden) arrived at the church, Pastor Frank led us down the narrow, winding trail, past small homes, to Pastor Sabelo's home on the edge of a steep ravine. The church, a testament to resilience, was only partially rebuilt using prefabricated concrete slabs typically used to line highways. Stronger than wood, these slabs stand as a symbol of hope and endurance, ready to face any future challenge. Mount Olive Brethren Church (McGaheysville, VA) joined with Carson Oaks and others to contribute a new concrete floor to fortify the structure's foundation and a new corrugated steel roof, coated to prevent rust, to shield against rain and sun.
This church building is home to a congregation of 40 to 50 local area residents who meet on Sundays for worship and throughout the week for outreach and evangelism. The church also holds weekly children's programs essential to the community's life. Although most of the community lives far below the poverty level, Pastor Sabelo and his wife often offer relief and help as they are able, and the whole community tries to help one another as the Lord has given to them.
This is a powerful reminder of the impact of our prayers and our partnership with the Brethren in South Africa, India, South America, and indeed worldwide. Your support, generosity, and prayers have been instrumental in bringing about these life-changing results and transformations. We are deeply grateful for your continued support and prayers.
Scott Soden
Global Partners Coordinator