Missional-Mindedness in the Midst of Poverty

We invite you to share with your congregation the following story from Dan Nighswander and Yvonne Snider-Nighswander, Mennonite Church Canada Witness Workers in South Africa. It should take no more than 2 minutes to read aloud. You might also wish to include the story in your church newsletter. This story is part of Equipping #73 February 2007.

Missional-Mindedness in the Midst of Poverty: South Africa

Dan Nighswander and Yvonne Snider- Nighswander, Witness workers in South Africa, recently visited a church located in Edendale, a township on the edge of Pietermarizburg. This area was initially British, but during the apartheid era it was set apart as a Black township. Today it suffers from 90% unemployment, substandard housing, and areas without plumbing or electricity.

The Duduza Church is a church plant which began as a house church and now has begun using an abandoned building in the heart of the township. The church members are working hard at restoring and refurbishing the building, making it useable both for worship and for activities that will benefit the neighbourhood. It has now been named the Duduza Care Centre.

In the midst of this hard work, the church is interested in learning what mission could mean for them. They planned a mission weekend including a youth event on Friday evening, a Bible study on Saturday afternoon, and a Sunday morning worship service. Dan and Yvonne spoke at the Saturday afternoon study. Dan led a study focusing on Abraham and Sarah and how all Christians are called to relate beyond their door step. Then everyone learned Brian Moyer-Suderman’s song, “God’s Love is for Everybody” and sang it together.

On Sunday morning, all the people who would some day like to become involved in mission were invited to come forward and be prayed for. Many in this small congregation of mostly unemployed persons also pledged a monthly contribution to mission projects. It was a time of commitment and hope for the Duduza Church, a time of looking forward. This event was especially significant given the great needs present in the church and its community. This missional presence in the midst of poverty and hardship is truly a witness of God’s grace and the Gospel, not only in South Africa, but around the world!