Ministry apprentice Jonathan (pictured above left) had agreed to help lead a group of 11-13 year old boys at Emmanuel Church’s holiday club in Gqeberha, South Africa. Many of the children and leaders at the camp were from Intsika, a ministry supported by Anglican Aid that educates and mentors children living in poverty in Greenbushes on the outskirts of Gqeberha.

Just as the camp started, Jonathan’s co-leader, pastor Andre, became sick and the 18-year-old was left to lead the group Bible discussions on his own. “I was so nervous,” said Jonathan. “Pastor Andre and I had gone through the notes beforehand, but it felt like it just left me when I was with the boys.”

Once the program got underway, he remembered some of the tips he’d learned through the youth ministry training he had done with Laura Goosen, the Intsika Project Manager (pictured above right). “As the week went on, I started feeling more confident – I could do this!” said Jonathan. “At the end of the week, I was so surprised when all the boys in my group said I was the best leader!”

Laura said that she knew leading a small group would be hard for Jonathan but she had no doubt he was up for the challenge. 

She said the children from Intsika had an incredible time at the holiday club, enjoying the games, craft, Bible teaching and small groups. “The children couldn’t stop talking about it,” said Laura. “One grandmother told me how her five-year-old grandson woke up at 6 am just to ensure he wouldn’t miss it!”

She added that having Intsika apprentices like Jonathan help with the camp was a highlight: “My prayer for the young leaders from Greenbushes is that they will continue to grow in their relationship with the Lord and that their lives will be an example to the rest of the community.” 

Pray:

• that God will continue to grow faith in Jesus in the children and ministry apprentices at Intsika.