Friends, this is the blog that I will be keeping to update everyone along my journey. For those who do not know, I will be returning to South Africa. Here is a tidbit about why I went previously, and why I am going again.
For those who have asked about how to give, I have created a paypal account and there is a link on the right side bar of this page. Please ignore my previous gofundme page, as I will be taking that down. I have been so undone by the generosity of those who have given. I am grateful, humbled, and truly blessed. Thank you. Any donations given go directly to me and are used solely for this journey-flights, living expenses, etc.
PAST
In November of 2010, my heart broke. It broke for orphans, and it broke for the injustice they face. On the day my heart broke, I decided that I would commit myself to fight for the justice of children-especially those without any family. I committed myself to be a voice, and I committed myself to be a momma. I said "yes" to what I believe to be the call on my life, and through valleys of trial, and triumphant seasons of joy, I have been running towards this call ever since.
During my "run" I found myself in South Africa at a wonderful place called "Michael's Children's Village" which serves under the covering of Iris Ministries. I found myself here as a student of "Harvest School of Missions" which, with the exception of my school, has always taken place in Pemba, Mozambique. The switch to South Africa, specifically to Michael's Children's Village, was the best surprise I have ever received in my life. This, my friends, is without exaggeration ;)
Upon arriving, I was connected with the base directors, and offered the wonderful opportunity to serve with the team! After graduating from missions school, I returned to the states and have been preparing for my upcoming season at Michael's Children's Village.
PRESENT
I currently have a one way ticket (AHHHH!!!). I have just finished going through my things -donating, organizing, and consolidating. All I need to do is pack my bags, and show up at the airport. First, I will be flying to Finland to spend a precious 5 days with one of my lovely housemates from the missions school before we both leave for our separate destinations.
FUTURE
Right now, I am scheduled to arrive in South Africa on September 2 on a 90 day visa. During my time at Michael's Children's Village, I will be focusing on relationship building with the families and children that live on the base. How it is set up, is there is a big piece of property with multiple houses on the land-each house has a family in it who are in the process of legally adopting the children. Over time, as the children are adopted and the family structure is strengthened, they are sent out into the community to flourish as their own family unit, under the covering and blessing of Michael's Children’s Village and Iris Ministries. I will be helping mainly with the children's programing part of the ministry, as well as working with the preschoolers-this will be a great way to get to know the children and build trust with the families and mommas.
Please do not hesitate to ask any questions you may have! I will update my blog while I am in South Africa and plan to post it bi-weekly. I will post it as a status but if you would like to have it privately messaged to insure you see it, please let me know.
I am beyond grateful for everyone who has pushed me to continue running this race! The journey of this dream becoming a reality would not be possible without the love and support of my friends and family. Thank you all!
With much love,
Sabrina
