June 2012 News letter - Messengers of Hope

In this issue you can read about

• Feedback on ACAT in SA….

• Ministry progress in Burundi…(Veritas, Children, FGW)

• Hauge Internet cafe and Development Centre progress…

Urakomeye? (Are you all right?)

We write to you this newsletter in a hope that your and our faith may be mutually encouraged by what God is doing in Burundi and in our own lives. God constantly shows us that He is with us and that He is directing our steps to co-inside with His greater vision and purpose for Burundi. We are reminded of Rom 1:17 "The righteous will live by faith" (NIV).

During the last 6 months we have experienced God’s favour unconditionally which has been enveloped with a fragrance of His unlimited mercy, birthing in us a stamina of perseverance for the work we have been called to.

April and May we were in SA for training in Kwazulu-Natal, traveled to Gauteng and the mother city, Cape Town visiting friends and family. We returned in May to Burundi with two short-term visitors, Douglas (Anton’s Dad) and Samantha.

Dad is visiting for 2 months, which is giving us precious time together. He has been instrumental in helping to establish business procedures at the Internet. Samantha is a missionary in transit to DRC.

Feedback on ACAT visit in SA….

Our visit to SA included a 3 week training course with ACAT in Howick. ACAT known as Africa Co-operative Action Trust have been founded in 1979. You can read more about our partner at www.acatkzn.co.za/.

In 2011 Diane attended the same training with 8 Burundians, they have been so impressed by the training that we again, with the financial help of Royal Staple Pty(Ltd), raised 6 Burundians to go with Anton this year. We were accommodated on the property of ACAT in Howick and on weekends were entertained by taking trips to Durban and surrounding midland area. Only one word can explain our experience with ACAT and that is LOVE. Wow, from the CEO to the drivers and cooks, we were received with a spirit of enthusiasm and care. No request was to difficult or onerous…one of the Burundians loved the melamine crockery so much that ACAT went specially to buy him 8 melamine plates to take home…lol. Now we can understand why they receive so much success from God, because everything is done with a 100% no less love attitude and it is contagious!!

About the training…we were taught on sustainable development by identifying and building capacity into Extension Officers, Community Volunteers and guiding the local community to setup Community Governing Boards. Developing people in poverty by building capacity through training Basic Life Skills and Hard Skills, married to a follow-up program walking a road with our target group, towards discipling them to change their own lifestyles with an intentional focus on being Christ centered which will empower them to change their own circumstances, families, communities and infrastructures.

The foundation of the Basic life skills training is only the entry level training, ACAT has professionally developed 164 Modulated courses all geared towards a wholestic approach to helping people in poverty. More about the training in the next news letter.

During the training at Acat God expanded our Vision and downloaded additional strategy we need to implement in Burundi. We sense a challenge of God to embrace Luke 4:18. To be His instrument as Messengers of Hope to people in hopeless circumstances. Therefore in addition to our current mission we will initiate a development program in Burundi towards the poorest of the poor. We will play a mentorship role to others who attended the same training as well as to anyone who God raises up in Burundi wanting to break new ground in rural communities.

In our context the major felt need is Poverty, a problem which have left many aid and NGO organizations with hands in the air with despair because no amount of money will change people, only a Christ centered development journey will set people free step by step. Jesus is the “glue”…He holds all things together (Col 1:17) in and through Him this curse can be broken. Together Diane and I will spearhead this initiative in order to answer the call of the hopeless, to allow Christ to restore dignity and hope.

Ministry progress…

1. Veritas - We continue to train Module 2 with our pastor groups in Gitega and Rutana provinces. We are so grateful to the pastors for persevering with the training. Interpreting the Word of God correctly will result in the correct Gospel being preached, a Gospel of Hope and it will bring change to people and their circumstances.

On a visit to Ps Zacheria, attending the training faithfully, walking a distance of about 20 kms, He testified how the Veritas training have benefited him, the leaders and church. Being so thankful we enjoyed with him a meal in his home. He has also implemented ACAT and FGW principals and had a bumper crop this season, see picture attached.

Here is a link to the latest Veritas news letter on Facebook, after clicking the link, please complete your Facebook logon details:

http://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.3238739218551.2123185.1568886056&type=3

We will continue the training with Module 2 in Ngozi and Kirundo provinces from September. The training in these remote areas requires additional finance for traveling, accommodation and books. We would need to raise additional finance for September to January as follow:

50 Books - $300 or R2400 (once off amount)

Accommodation - $215 or R1720 per month

Feul - $143 or R1144 per month

We will start with the Kirundi translation of Module 3 during August and we trusting God for provision for $500 or R4000 (once off) to complete this work, which will benefit all future training of this Module in Burundi.

Veritas Directors, Ivan Skinner and David de Wet, will visit us again during October to train facilitators on Module 1 and 2.

2. Children ministry - Saturday school is going well, Diane loves the children who come from the surrounding community, many who would not normally attend a Sunday church service. They colour in pictures, make crafts and play games and receive teaching about the Bible.

Sunday school teacher training was again held in March and we sent 16 teachers for training, this will help the Sunday school teachers to train the children about Jesus Christ.

3. Farming God’s Way (FGW) –

Carl Schmidt from FGW visited u

s in February and trained in Ngozi and Gitega provinces. Diane continues to use FGW as a tool to bring relief in a practical way.

Carl will visit us again in August and we will do refresher courses in Gitega and start new training in Rutana province.

Hauge Internet cafe and Development Centre progress...

The Hauge Internet business has been operational now for 7 months. Although we had to deal with a few

teething problems relating to record keeping, daily running of this small business and connection problems during March and April, we however do consider this initiative to be a blessing. A blessing both to us and the community of Gitega, because of the improved connection we are currently experiencing as well as the fact that the busines

s serves as a plat form to build capacity into people through imparting skills on how to browse the internet, how to email and run

Facebook accounts.

In addition the Hauge Internet has been one of the building blocks to establishing the Hauge Skills Development Centre, which will be the vehicle to accomplish the vision to help develop the rural poor. We have plans to expand HSDC with an additional classroom, chicken shed and water tanks and gutters to harvest water for the vegetable gardens.

However we first need to register a Non Profit Association in Burundi in order to give us a legal entity to partner with donors abroad. The cost for the registration process via a legitimate lawyer will be $400 or R3200.

Spiritual thought.....Messengers of Hope

Rom 5:3-5

“Not only that, but we rejoice in our sufferings, knowing that suffering produces endurance, and endurance produces character, and character produces hope, and hope does not put us to shame, because God's love has been poured into our hearts through the Holy Spirit who has been given to us.” (ESV)

Paul encourages the Roman believers to rejoice, to be glad to take courage to enthuse themselves with the knowledge that they have an expectation that Jesus Christ is coming again. He calls this expectation, hope. He explains that the suffering that they are facing can be used by God through His Holy Spirit, to their advantage to build their endurance or perseverance to keep on going and believing and trusting in Christ, because He is their deliverer and provider. This perseverance will cause their character to grow into the likeness of Jesus Christ, which is shaped by their trails and circumstances.

In 1 Cor 13:13 Paul gives the bottom line to believers, Faith, Hope and Love. Faith refers to what we believe in i.e. Jesus Christ. Hope refers to our expectation of the return of Jesus Christ in whom our redemption is sealed. Finally Love, how we should respond to life’s sufferings and circumstances, how we should behave if we understand our Faith and Hope.

God has your back!! Someone need to hear this very loudly and clearly. Son or Daughter of God…He has your back!! i.e. God desire us to know, to believe, to live with the understanding that He loves us so much…and yes He proved it (Rom 5:8) on the cross, that you and should completely trust and believe Him with our lives, our spouses, children, businesses, jobs, communities etc. He will come through for those who will dare to follow His Holy Spirit. Therefore let us live our lives desiring God’s thoughts, passions, dreams and perspective. Let us desire to share the love of God in this life, allowing our decisions and life resources to serve Him as our Hope draws near.

Thank you:

We have a number of note worthy thank you’s to make, special people who have been very instrumental in partnering with us and sharing our vision. However we do want your reward to be given to you in heaven and not spent on a short term satisfaction on earth.

We pray Jesus that you will credit to the account of every supporter their gifts to this ministry in any which way it has been made, God bless them and their families and their gift which is a testimony to your goodness and faithfulness, we ask this in the name of your Son, Jesus Christ, Amen!

Prayer points:


Please continue to pray as follow:

1. Peace for Burundi – pray for continued political stability in the country. The security has been compromised by a small band of people who seek to bring instability.

2. Pray for Bernice – studies 2012, final year.

3. Pray for us – protection for our health, relationships, that no weapon from the enemy against us will prevail.

4. Divine appoints – ask the Holy Spirit to guide us into all divine appointments He has created for us and to discern His words of wisdom.

5. Veritas Training – Thank God for His divine provision, also pray for ongoing provision for the books required.

6. ACAT & FGW training – for implementation.

7. Kirundi Commentaries and Bibles – pray for more funding for this need as well as for Bibles, as there is no Bibles available in the country at the moment.

8. Hauge Skills Development Centre – for registration of NPA.

blessings

Anton and Diane

December 2011 - Bridging the Gap

In this issue you can read about

• Ministry progress …..We are on a mission.....

• Hauge Internet cafe is born.....

• Burundi ministry next year....

Amahoro y’Imana (God's Peace)

We wish we could sit across you with a cup of the best, Burundi coffee ofcause and tell you firsthand how good our God is and how wonderful His plans are! Well, the next best thing will be to read this e-mail while you relax wherever you are. Then allow God to bridge the gap through this newsletter.

Excitement and anticipation fills the atmosphere while we are writing to you! God has been really good to us over the last few months. This period was packed with all sorts of experiences which helped us grow spiritually and even allowed us to enjoy a brief time back in SA to celebrate our daughter’s 21^st. She has certainly done us proud over the last 3 years whilst we were in Burundi. Scoring very well in her university studies and developing into a fine young woman whom any parents will be very grateful for. God has been faithful in guiding, providing, protecting and strengthening Bernice through a number of people who really love and lookout for her. Truly Jesus is our strength and shares our burdens with us.

Burundi has been buzzing with ministry activity. Ps Charles, who initially invited us to Burundi to come and serve the Kingdom of God, has planted a new church in Bujumbura. It is a 3 story building, situated in a relatively new area in the capital. The event was filled with an array of different activities, handing over of the church flag with deacons marching down the aisle, the reading of scripture, presenting of paintings of a shepherd as gifts to Ps Charles, a government minister greeting the church and conclusion of the service with a sermon from Dr Howard from California. To us Ps Charles has always been one who God has sent (an apostle) to pioneer new churches for God's Kingdom. We pray for Full Gospel Church to take the next step to grow internationally into East Africa.

Ministry News.....

Initially our invitation to come and serve in Burundi was both to the local Full Gospel Church as well as to different denominations. We sensed that the work God was calling us to was and is a Kingdom work wherewe would have the opportunity to see Pastors and Leaders associate and learn together as brothers in Christ from different denominations.

Rick Warren in his book “Purpose Driven Church” gives good guidance in the aspect of building Kingdom minded disciples. He clarifies this in the prayer of Jesus in Luk 17, saying that He calls His disciples to both a ministry and a mission. We also have the challenge to serve in both a ministry in our local church and also a mission in the Kingdom of God. It is not either or, rather both ministry and mission.

Therefore Diane serves in the local church in the ministry of Sunday school but also serves in her mission to the Kingdom of God by training Farming God's Way. In my case, my local ministry is preaching and teaching the Word of God in the local church and my mission is to train Bible Interpretation skills to Pastors and leaders interdenominational.

Veritas....

We graduated 3 Module 1 groups in Ngozi, Kirundo and Rutana respectively. The Pastors from different denominations were both excited for completing the 1^st module and waiting in anticipation for the 2^nd Module to start. We have started to train Veritas Module 2 in Gitega and Rutana.

Children ministry....

Children's ministry in the local church has grown to almost 150 children. Diane has re-arranged her Sunday school program so that she can have more time with the children, resulting in a greater impact on their lives. She has started to meet the children every 2^nd Saturday for at least 2 hours, growing their fine and gross motor skills by playing different games with them and completes each play time with teaching a Biblical lesson.

At the beginning of 2011 Diane had a vision to train other teachers from Full Gospel church. This finally came into being during November. She took 13 teachers for practical training to Bujumbura for a two day seminar. The seminar was hosted by Ps Ahn and Sunny from EAC Church, they are long serving missionaries from Korea, in fact they have been serving in Burundi for the last 20 years. Their faithfulness has been a blessing to many and we can see how Jesus is using them to bridge the gap between the generations. In their home th

ey have a sign with a saying “Not next year but Next generation” an awesome focus to have because God's blessing is so great that is able to bless in tranches of generations.

In December Diane prepared for a Children's concert. One thing you have to know is that, not much can dampen Diane's excitement if it comes to doing some activity with or for the children. Therefore when she gets going it is often all out, no stopping, no slowing down, until she finishes the task! She and Aron were painting props, making

soldier armour and gear from cardboard, painting, making bandanas, what a joy to watch her being excited! Surely this is this inspiration from God! The concert took place on Saturday 24^th December. The concert was followed by the handing out of gifts which were very difficult because it was the first time we handed out more than 400 gift packs and sandals and it was rather difficult to control the children. But we have learned from the experience and we know next time we are more equipped to do a even better job of distribution. Not withstanding the fact that many children were blessed including street children who joined the party.

Hauge Internet cafe....

During our visit in September I may have shared with a few people about pioneering an In

ternet cafe in Gitega. Well it is done and dusted! Actually I cannot take any of credit for this work, because you see it was not my idea, but God's idea. One day during May 2011 I had the clear promoting form the Holy Spirit to start an Internet Cafe in Gitega, I was given instruction to work with specifically Peter and Fedilite (Burundian couple). Well I sent one email to a friend and business man, who happens to love the Lord so much, in Norway. I explained to him the plan to start an Internet cafe and the vision I had with this business. One email sparked the founding of Hauge Internet Sprl in Burundi. Together with other investors we have established the business in a business property we are now renting in the centre of town and the Internet is up and running. Peter helps manage the Internet and Fedilite has started the Amakuru Cafe (Translated: News cafe).

Now we are using the premises to also train Veritas, Farming God's Way and possibly additional adhoc skills from Acat, to be established during 2012, which will help entrepreneurs start more businesses in Gitega. Un-intentionally we have founded a centre where we now have an Internet cafe, a restaurant and running Skills development courses, hence we have named the centre “Hauge Skills Development Centre”. Pray for guidance in establishing this ministry in order for it to become self sustainable.

Thank you...

We know God will reward those who are generous towards His work but we want to specifically give thanks to some folk who really have helped the mission in Burundi:

In our last news letter we requested help for the Veritas Module 2 books, Commentaries and Bibles, well God's people heard the call and responded. Thank you especially to Ray Castle, founder of Missionary Encouragement Projects, I know you are a good steward and I have purposefully not revealed the names of the donors to his organization, so that God may reward them in heaven. We were able to buy the books from Veritas Uganda office.

We thank God for yet another year of financial support received for Bernice's studies towards her degree. This support has been such an answer to prayer and we want the sponsor to remain anonymous, Thank you for your commitment and sacrifice to invest in both the future of Bernice and the next generation whom she will be teaching. Again we see God's hand bridging the gap.

Burundi Ministry 2012....

How do we see the work continue in Burundi? At the moment we use Aron as our translator and due to Diane's growing ministry with Farming God's way,

Acat and Children ministry, needs someone to help her permanently. We have asked God for another Burundian translator who will be able to help me train Veritas. God answered with an emphatic yes and when I shared this burden someone responded. Ps Jean-Marie has confirmed that God is calling him to work with us and to train Veritas. He is a pastor of a congregation in Ps Charles' church. We will balance his existing responsibilities with the Veritas training. He has already finished Module 1, and qualified as a trainer. I would like to start training with him from January. We are trusting God for a monthly support for Ps Jean-Marie. If you desire to finance this support, then please send me an email and we can make the necessary arrangements.

Veritas module 2 training will continue in Rutana from January and we will also start a second group in Gitega for English speaking pastors.

During April 2012 we plan to visit SA again for two primary purposes. In order to attend my graduation for my BTh qualification from the South African Theological Seminary and to attend a 3 week social development course hosted by ACAT in Howick, Kwazulu Natal.

Spiritual thought.....Dealing with discouragement

Diane and I normally after re-entry into Burundi have to deal with emotions of discouragement. If we allow these emotions and thoughts to continue we start to withdraw from people as well as from God. During these times it is wise not to make any major changes or allow the discouragement to dictate our actions. We have taken much comfort from these words of Jesus.

Matt 11:28-30

This passage has three elements to it:

a) “Come to me” - Jesus always takes the first step and wants to bridge the gap between us, in fact He wants to share the burden with us. He promises to protect us from the consequences of these burdens. Jesus says His plans and purposes for our lives is not difficult, in fact He says it's easy because it is His plans and visions we serve not ours or those from other people. Herin lies the warning, who's plans are you following? Your own plans, or the plans of others? Who or what is the voice you listen to giving you direction? The voice of your emotions and thoughts? Does it line up with the Word of God?

b) “I will give you rest” - So often we look for comfort in the wrong places, things or people. Some look for comfort in food, or even in seeking out people who we know will agree with us. Jesus invites us to come to Him, He is gentle and humble, His voice and direction will leave us with a sense of peace and assurance. We need to draw closer to the Word of God and allow God to comfort us.

c) “Take my yoke” - Do you feel over extended? You might be taking unnecessary responsibility for others. We might even attempt to serve the vision and call God has for other people and not our own. Jesus Christ yokes us together, he helps and sustains us, when we face discouragements, hardships, challenges, disappointed relationships, Jesus is the one who will come and bridge the gap, pick us up and help us because He wants to and are able to strengthen us physically, emotionally and spiritually.

Jesus is waiting for us to respond to Him....He is ready...take time and share with Him your burden and allow yourself time in His presence, in order for Him to refresh your soul.

Prayer points.....

Please continue to pray as follow:

1. Peace for Burundi – pray for continued political stability in the country. The security has been compromised by a small band of people who seek to bring instability.

2. Pray for Bernice – studies 2012, final year.

3. Pray for us – protection for our health, relationships, that no weapon from the enemy against us will prevail.

4. Divine appoints – ask the Holy Spirit to guide us into all divine appointments He has created for us and to discern His words of wisdom.

5. Studies – that I may finish well this year, this is my final year for BTh. Thank God for His faithfulness the end in sight.

6. Veritas Training – Thank God for His divine provision, also pray for ongoing provision for the books required.

7. ACAT & FGW training – Diane for implementation.

8. Kirundi Commentaries and Bibles – pray for more funding for this need.

9. Hauge Skills Development centre – to become self sustainable.

Please stay connected with us on Face Book………

Much love

Anton and Diane

Aug 2011 News -- Rhythym of Work and Prayer

Iwacu Nimeza (Home is Best)

In this news letter you can read about:

· Veritas – 150 pastors x 10 Denominations x 4 Provinces = 12 months

· ACAT training in SA

· Kirundi Bible and Commentary distribution

· Distribution of book bags at Rubabi School

· Resource centre for Pastors in Gitega

· Studies

· Plans for the next quarter

Introduction

The last few months have been filled with many adventures and experiencing God’s hand in our daily lives. Burundi has been good to us and after 2 ½ years we feel at home and consider our lives in SA to be in the distant past.

Have you ever heard someone saying, “I’ll get round to it”? Well our news letter from Burundi has been long overdue. Some people even asked if we have removed them from our distribution list….Not at all! We are just taking time getting round to it! In all seriousness, we apologize for the silence from Burundi, but all is well and we are walking in the blessing that comes from serving God according to His plans.

Veritas

After our return from SA in February, I completed the training of the Module 1 group in Rutana province. Tim van Aarde and Ruben Safari helped me launch the Veritas training in the North of the country. In May we started 2 new Module 1 groups in Kirundo and Ngozi provinces. The decision to start in these two more remote areas was a step of faith. Just the travelling alone takes 3 hours one way. Our monthly budget had to grow by faith to meet the additional resources we needed to train and travel. God always provides where He is sending His workers (Matt 6:33). The training for module 1 will be completed in the next few weeks.

When we look at the training numbers it speaks for itself. 150 pastors trained from 10 denominations in 4 Provinces over 12 months. Really, God has given us favour and open doors relationally in most denominations in Burundi. Currently there is 4 second generation Module 1 groups in progress and facilitators still have to be trained in Rutana, Kirundo and Ngozi.

ACAT training in SA

An opportunity presented to us by Dutliff Snyman during our visit to SA in February, came to realization. We casted a vision with Liberty Church, Royal Staple (Pty) Ltd. and OMS to select 6 Burundian leaders from 3 different denominations and send them for training in SA with Africa Cooperative Action Trust (ACAT). The 1^st and 2^nd week of training comprised of Leadership skills to plan, write, lead, organize and control sustainable development projects. The 3^rd week training focused on more practical aspects of farming, homestead gardens and developing the rural poor.

We also shared the vision with our friends at Hauge Micro Finance who were on a short visit to Burundi. Arne Sylta (Chairman of Hauge) took the vision back to Norway and together with Hauge Aid and Mission send another 3 Burundians for the training. Diane accompanied the team of 8 Burundians and 1 Kenyan to SA for 3 weeks during June. I remained in Burundi and continued our training commitments.

The feedback was overwhelming and one and all enjoyed SA (despite the chilly winter temperatures!) and many confirmed that their minds were opened to the fact that Burundi can develop the rural poor. The most results we have seen to date is from Full Gospel Church where Ps Bolivard, Odette and Diane are training their people every Wednesday in preparation for the rain season.

We are so thankful to Royal Staple (Pty) Ltd., ACAT and Hauge (and other sponsors not mentioned) for your contribution into the nation of Burundi. The rural poor, which I call the forgotten people, are not without hope because God hears their cry (Ps 72:12). Diane and I have in relationship with Royal Staple (Pty) Ltd. created an informal partnership with ACAT for the use of the training material.

Diane will monitor from Burundi the progress of this justice ministry and implementation of the ACAT material. I am also glad to report that ACAT supports “Farming God’s Way” which is a fantastic tool in the hands of the rural poor. Diane have started to implement this training alongside me in Kirundo. We will also complete another demonstration garden in a rural area called Mashitsi, close to Gitega, during August.

Kirundi Bible and Commentary distribution

The Bibles continue to reach the poorest believers in Burundi and here are some pictures taken of a donation we made of 32 Bibles to a Pastor in Kirundo. He was overjoyed as we handed the Bibles over to them.

Also God provided that we could assist all the pastors participating in the Veritas training in the North with a Kirundi Commentary. This is a big need amongst the pastors and we call for more finances to share this valuable resource with more pastors.

Distribution of book bags at Rubabi School

We had a specific sponsor who wanted us to bring a blessing specifically to the children of Burundi. Of course Diane loves to bless the children! She bought 314 school bags and 12 pairs of shoes and some bags of sweets. Her vision was to find a poor rural school and hand out as many of the school bags, taking the opportunity to share scripture from the Bible to show the children that God loves them so much.

Resource centre for Pastors in Gitega

Diane and I still have another (at least ) 2 ½ years in Burundi and time will tell if the timeframe fits in with Gods’ clock. We would like to leave behind a legacy which will help Burundians. A resource centre where pastors can come and prepare sermons with the tools we load on the computers, electronic libraries and internet. A place where pastors from different churches will have access to internet, restaurant, meetings etc.

Internet in Burundi is very expensive and the Internet cafe’s which exist is not well managed and notoriously not of much service. In Gitega this situation is exasperated due to the distance away from the capital. Therefore good internet in Gitega will be an answer to (my) prayer at least.

The main purpose for us is not to receive any portion of the profit or shares in a potential Internet cafe business. Rather we have earmarked a Burundian Christian couple, Peter and Fidelity. They are church planters and Fidelity also works amongst Muslims and started a ministry called “Cousin Ministries” to help converted Muslims to make a life outside this religion. Therefore, over time we would like to train them up to help run an Internet Cafe and own and manage the restaurant side of the business.

I have shared this vision with Hauge Business, our friends in Norway. They are very supportive and have a Kingdom purpose to invest in business in Burundi. Please pray for this venture? The offices will double up as a room for the pastors training and Diane will use the garden to prepare her demonstration of homestead gardens, “Farming God’s Way” and a Chicken shed. (I think we will have to change our names to Farmer Brown’s soon…lol).

The Business has many possibilities to bless Burundi. There is the possibility to also use the Internet café as a hub to connect with Heritage Television (Christian television station owned and managed by Burundian Business man) with the purpose to draw youth into online meetings via internet streaming. Discussions and sharing of ideas can bring about transformation in the minds of the young people. When this pilot becomes successful, we could branch out to other provinces. All this will develop the infrastructure for pastors to have access to a much needed resource centre where they can prepare and research their messages and teachings. The main focus remains for this project to be self sustainable.

Studies

My studies with The South African Theological Seminary (SATS) has been an amazing journey. Over the last semester I was able to complete 6 subjects. The finish line is in sight, and in December I will enroll for my final subject before receiving my Bth (Bachelor in Theology) at the graduation which will be held in April 2012. For the next few months I will be able to take a much needed breather from studying since 2007. The Study Of God has taken me into a greater appreciation for my Creator and Saviour, helped me seek to serve rather than to seek position, to know that only being seated with Christ (Eph 2:6) is contentment, not accept complacency but to fulfill my life purpose to follow Christ and to reach out to the rural poor with hope in my hands. Going deeper in God’s Word is the only way to go further in God’s ambition for our lives. Then Life is actually an adventure ride!

Plans for the next quarter

During the month of August we will wrap-up the Veritas Module 1 training in Kirundo and Ngozi. In September we have to make a brief visit to SA for Bernice’s 21^st celebration, with a theme of Black, Pink and Bling. We are so excited for our Daughter who have matured into a lovely young lady. We also hope to connect with friends, family and anyone who would like to meet with us.

In October we plan to start the Internet Café in Gitega. Finally we will also start with Veritas Module 2 training in Gitega and Rutana provinces for the next 6 months. Please consider sponsoring the Training books 150 @ $5 each = $750

Diane will continue with Children’s and Justice ministry using the ACAT and “Farming God’s Way” tools. We are excited for the work and starting to follow a rhythm which involves praying and working. God is faithful.

Spiritual thought:

Poverty is a prison - Ecc 4:14 “For he went from prison to the throne, though in his own kingdom he had been born poor” (ESV).

The context of this passage is the worthlessness of fame and success of a king who falls from power even though he was raised from poverty, which is being associated with being imprisoned. After becoming king he refused to listen to warning which resulted in folly as an intelligent young man could rule better than he could.

The key word is prison which describes poverty as a physical place, the same word is being used to describe Joseph’s imprisonment, a place of being bound physically (Gen 39:20) and confessing an oath having a spiritual bond (Num 30:2). Also Isaiah prophecy’s about the messiah, that he would liberate the captives and open the prison (Isa 61:1). Therefore poverty is a prison and many people are kept in poverty because of their cultural values and practices which binds them in a poverty mindset.

Only God can break people out of poverty both in mind and in the physical (Ps 146:7), by having the correct view of God. A view that affirms that He wants to protect and care for the poor and will set us free from this prison. But it requires us to trust in Him.

Ps 113:7 “He lifts the poor from the dust and the needy from the garbage dump” (ESV).

The Psalms are most often regarded as the book of prayer for the poor. God is portrayed as the saviour of the poor, their hope and liberator. Ps 113:1-6, In all places and all time God is worthy to be worshipped by those who serve Him. Although He is enthroned in heaven He is mindful and concerned about His people on earth. (v7) God helps those who are suffering and gives new life and purpose to those who lost all hope.

The poor has been conditioned to look to man for provision. Generally amongst the poor dependencies have been created on Governments, Europeans (in Burundi context), and NGO’s as their only source. God is the sole provider of the strength and talents we have to create wealth (Deut 8:18). God is the source of our lives. The challenge is to make this absolute truth a practical application in our lives, through prayer and work.

Thank you

Again Diane and I want to bless all the faithful supporters of the ministry with Matt 6:4, that God who sees your giving in secret will reward you. Also to the prayer supporters your prayers are so pleasing to the Master’s ears (Matt 6:6).

Prayer points:

Please continue to pray as follow:

1. Peace for Burundi – pray for continued political stability in the country. The security has been compromised by a small band of people who seek to bring instability.

2. Pray for Bernice – studies 3rd year of her Bed degree.

3. Pray for us – protection for our health, relationships, that no weapon from the enemy against us will prevail.

4. Divine appoints – ask the Holy Spirit to guide us into all divine appointments He has created for us and to discern His words of wisdom.

5. Vehicle – We have sold our vehicle in SA to pay for this loan.

6. Studies – that I may finish well this year, this is my final year for Bth. Thank God for His faithfulness the end in sight.

7. Veritas Training – Thank God for His divine provision, also pray for ongoing provision for the books required.

8. ACAT & FGW training – Diane for implementation.

9. Kirundi Commentaries and Bibles – pray for more funding for this need.

Please stay connected with us on Face Book………

Much love

Anton and Diane

Burundi News - Feb 2011 arrival

Picture Table Mountain - Burundian asked me why no houses are build on top of the mountain? I said he should rather ask a local in CapeTown.

Imana Ibahezagire (God Bless you)

News from Burundi

Our trip to SA took us via Jozi to Scottburgh and Stellenbosch. We really enjoyed connecting with Bernice, extended family, friends and church (Diane says Hallelujah!). When you come back to your own country and especially your church, then one looks past all the wrinkles and tend not to major on all the minors. We truly loved our stay being pampered and treated to meals, great company and even free holiday accommodation in KZN (God Bless you guys).

Diane and I arrived back safely in Burundi on the 20th of Feb. When we arrived to our house in Gitega we were immediately baptised back into life in Burundi. The last team who visited us coined the phrase: “Burundi is a process” and I have to confirm the process is ongoing. We had no water reserves in our tank, but the rain we collected the same afternoon assured that we could continue the house hold until the water was restored.

We came back exhausted....as expected, however it was great to be able to share with many families what God is doing in Burundi and how we are so thrilled to be a part of this journey. During our visit we had more than 35 meetings (excluding family) sharing about our journey. Albeit that I felt a little overwhelmed with the direction God was taking us this year, which will cause us to expand the ministry to the North of the country...greater investment of time, resources and trust in God. This means that I was speaking by faith what God is leading us into this year, but not necessarily understanding how God is going to-do it. Now I feel more confident, although still very dependent on how God is going to materialise all the work we are setting out to-do.

Ministry update and needs:

The 4 tracks of ministry we have been speaking to everyone about in our last news letter and in our face to face presentations can be summarised:

1. Training pastors and leaders – (2 Tim 2:2) with Veritas material. We will complete the Rutana province group in April. The desire is to start the training in the two most Northern provinces in the country in Ngosi and Kirundo. We will launch the training in these areas end of March with the intention to start training in April. We will most probably train in these areas twice per month starting in Ngosi on a Thursday and Friday then crossing over to Kirundo and training Monday and Tuesday. We will train 2 days consecutively to help reduce the travelling to these regions and reduce the fuel we will need. The total monthly cost for fuel, accommodation and training will be ($1138 – $350 existing ministry budget) = $788 per month shortfall. The training will take 4 to 5 months. Now since we have been sharing about the upcoming training this year God has already provided a gift which will secure the training for the 1st month being April. From the end of August we will begin training module 2 in Gitega and Rutana province. Pls seek God on partnering with us in this training, which is directly impacting the Kingdom of God.

Our first facilitators were trained up in Gitega during December and we were so excited to receive report back that 4 new groups have started. This is the first fruit of the ministry!

2. Children’s ministry – (Matt 19:14) Diane’s heart is for the Burundian children and they love her so much. Her vision is to intensify the children’s teaching by shifting the school from Sunday to Saturday mornings and having longer time with the children and more activity. Also to cast her activity to 3 other churches of Ps Charles in Gitega.

3. Bibles for Believers – (Rom 10:17) Last year we distributed almost 700 Bibles to believers. This is not our main focus but as we meet different Churches God has given us Bibles in our hands for His people. Distribution will continue as long as we have the Word of God in our hands.

4. Justice ministries – (Jam 2:14-17) Burundi being one of the most physical poorest countries in Africa needs God’s intervention. This is a picture of Diane's maize and bean garden, Burundi is so fruitful. We will continue to implement Sustainable development programs in our circle of influence with pastors and leaders across denominations. The greatest need is Sustainable Food security solutions supported by Sustainable business development and Cooperative initiatives. After the visit last year of Dutliff Snyman, he made connection with Africa Cooperative Action Trust (ACAT). The intention is to train up key leaders and implementers from Burundi to KZN (read more at http://www.acatkzn.co.za/). The training with Acat will primarily focus Sustainable development. Pls write to me if you would like more info.

Other ministry needs are the debt on the vehicle and new Visa applications. We are paying off monthly our vehicle, which remains with an outstanding balance of $6200. Visas, we will be renewing our 2 year visa for Burundi during March which will amount to $600 for a multiple entry.

Spiritual thought:

Whist studying the epistles of Paul I was captivated by his shear perseverance in the face of many challenges. 2 Cor 11:23-28 he gives a brief account of the amount of suffering he had to endure for the sake of the Gospel. His endurance and spirit amazes me! What fueled his commitment was not based on his comfort, or job satisfaction per say, or on working relationships or any other employee benefits. Phil 1:12 Paul found his motivation in advancing the Gospel and 2 Tim 1:11-12 his commitment to God’s call and purpose for his life.

Our commitment to God’s purpose for our lives cannot be based on the fruit or difference we expect to see or on the opinion of other people but we have to 1^st be committed to God’s call on our lives. This will lead you in a life of passion which is focused on Him and we only find this understanding at His feet. What an example we have in His son Jesus Christ when He said (Jn 14:31) my will is to do what God wants me to do. Jesus was committed to the Father’s call and it cost Him His life. I’m compelled because of His great love to demonstrate my love and gratitude to God through allowing my life decisions to be govern by His direction.

Thank you

Diane and I want to relay our deepest thanks to all the financial supporters and prayer partners who specifically sacrifice your time and resources to partner with us in God’s Kingdom work. We stand before God and give Him glory. We continue to join Paul in his prayer to the Philippians 4:18-19 that your sacrifice is an acceptable sacrifice to Him and that he will meet all your needs according to His will. I cannot promise you how and when God will reward you, but this we know, God always fulfils His promises and he deserves the best of our lives. Let’s make it count for the Kingdom in 2011.

Prayer points:

Please continue to pray as follow:

1. Peace for Burundi – pray for continued political stability in the country.

2. Pray for Bernice – studies 3^rd year of her Bed degree.

3. Pray for us – protection for our health, relationships, that no weapon from the enemy against us will prevail.

4. Divine appoints – ask the Holy Spirit to guide us into all divine appointments He has created for us and to discern His words of wisdom.

5. Vehicle – pray for the settlement of the balance of the loan ($6200).

6. Studies – that I may finish well this year, this is my final year for Bth. The two current subjects are General letters and Christian Ethics.

7. Training – God’s divine provision,

8. Visas – for application and provision. Favor with officials.

Please stay connected with us on Face Book………

Also on our Blog you will find Twitter updates and real time news flashes for Burundi…..http://van-burundi.blogspot.com/

Much love

Anton and Diane