The ACM guides and inspires Christians in Media and Christian Media organisations to connect people with the hope of the Gospel, while upholding authenticity, excellence, integrity, and relevance in every message. We unite and empower media voices, fostering a transformative Christian media landscape in South Africa.
“Let the Word of Christ dwell in your heart richly as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom and as you sing Psalms, hymns and spiritual songs with gratitude in your hearts to God. And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the Name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through Him.” Colossians 3:16-17
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Language Editor Mignionette de Bruin EditA Services Lettie van Aswegen
Contributors
Dr Peter Hammond, Esther Bornman, Dion Knoesen, Eugene Visser
Production Manager/Creative Director Enola Meyer mazeadilly@gmail.com
Publisher Devine Publishers
Head of Customer Engagement
Dominique Hayes 082 5500772 muckih72@gmail.com
Subscribe: www.devotedmag.co.za
Where there is hope,
there is a way
WHILE WRITING THIS ARTICLE, I WAS ON A PLANE HEADING TO DURBAN FOR A TOTAL REVERSE SHOULDER REPLACEMENT. I HAD TO TRAVEL TO A BIGGER CITY BECAUSE THE SURGERY IS RARELY PERFORMED
IN MY HOMETOWN
During this time, I was reminded of 2 Corinthians 4:17, which promises that bad things are only temporary, even though they may feel like they last a lifetime when you’re facing them.
The last two weeks before the surgery were a nightmare as I tried to organize everything. I struggled to get professional assistance over the phone from my medical fund. I needed to get pre-authorization for surgery, but a few days before my operation, I found out that the medical fund had been placed under administration due to corruption and mismanagement. This made me question how many organisations in our country are being destroyed because of corruption and mismanagement. It’s concerning to think about the burden of maladministration and corruption on the country and taxpayers and the rise in other crimes!
After watching a video of Tucker Carlson (the American political commentator) interviewing the current president of El Salvador, Nayib Bukele, I learned that El Salvador, once considered the most dangerous and corrupt country worldwide, is now widely regarded as the safest country. This changed in only three years. The president explained that the official answer to their success was that they addressed the country’s problems in phases according to a plan, but each phase brought its challenges.
However, when asked for the real answer, the president revealed that “It is a miracle. We prayed together for wisdom and protection.”
This is how he and his people turned the once corrupt and dangerous country into a safe one. The interview ended with a reminder that there is a global spiritual battle between good and evil.
I have witnessed people’s lives transform after praying and seeking a connection with God. These people also stress the importance of recognising one’s faults and having the will to change, empowering oneself to take responsibility for one’s actions and contribute to a better future for all. Just as El Salvador was transformed through collective prayer and commitment, we, too, can aspire to such a transformation in our nation.
Devoted’s goal is to inspire people. In this issue, we want to call to action those frustrated with corruption, violence, crime, and mismanagement, especially at the government level. We also encourage you to keep hoping as we highlight the potential of individuals in charge. After all, where there is hope, there is a way...
I strongly believe in the power of sharing uplifting stories and the need for less sensationalism and more good news. It is important to showcase the positive work of people and share stories of individuals who have turned their lives around for the better as a source of inspiration and courage for a brighter future.
Every story of transformation brings us one step closer to a brighter future. Let us continue to hold onto hope and work together towards a better tomorrow.
Until next time,
Gerda
“IT FEELS LIKE WE ARE FORGOTTEN.”
>> Article by Opendoors
MORE THAN 16 MILLION CHRISTIANS IN SUB-SAHARAN AFRICA HAVE BEEN DRIVEN FROM THEIR HOMES. MANY ARE PERSECUTED FOR THEIR FAITH. IT’S TIME TO STOP THE VIOLENCE AND START THE HEALING. THE DEVOTED TEAM HUMBLY REQUEST THAT YOU READ THIS ARTICLE AND REACH OUT TO THE “FORGOTTEN”, IN ANY WAY YOU CAN.
Flimsy makeshift tents sprawl in every direction, offering little relief from the ferocious heat. A sense of hopelessness hangs in the air. There is not enough food, no running water, too few toilets, and disease is rife. With its appalling conditions, this camp is “home” to Pastor Barnabas, his wife, and five children. Their tent’s floor space is no bigger than a double mattress. Every day is a struggle to survive.
They have been here for four years.
“Each person you see here … we are all Christians,” says Pastor Barnabas. “We are here because of violence. Millions of Christians are displaced here in Nigeria. But the news doesn’t care about it, politicians don’t talk about it, nobody talks about it. We are remaining in darkness. How would you feel to be forgotten?”
MILLIONS ARE DISPLACED
Pastor Barnabas is just one of an estimated 16,2 million Christians in sub-Saharan Africa forced from their ancestral lands and homes. Like him, many are persecuted for their faith. Islamist terror groups such as Al-Qaeda, al-Shabab and Boko Haram want to establish an Islamic state and target Christians in the region with unprecedented violence.
Believers are being attacked, kidnapped and murdered, and Christian villages and schools are being destroyed. Burkina Faso has lost 40% of its territory to terror groups, and in places such as Nigeria, militants seem to act with impunity.
Pastor Barnabas knows first-hand how dangerous it is for believers. After all, it was a deadly attack on his farm that drove him to a refugee camp...
MACHETE ATTACK
“Militants surrounded us, some with guns, some with machetes, some with sticks,” remembers Pastor Barnabas. “My brother was shot dead, and his wife was shot, macheted and killed. I kept running and was attacked with a stick. My hand was broken.”
The terrifying violence that day not only left Pastor Barnabas with permanent injuries but also had a devastating long-term impact on his family.
“I lost everything,” says Pastor Barnabas as he steps through the dust and debris of the refugee camp, a child by his side. “Everything in my home was burned. Now, I cannot take care of my family. I cannot feed them. My children no longer go to school.”
Pastor Barnabas pauses for a moment, overwhelmed with emotion. “As a pastor, I am supposed to care for my sheep. But people are losing their hope in God because of their situation. I don’t have anything to give them. We can only pray and share the Word… I feel very, very bad.”
ARISE, AFRICA, CAMPAIGN.
Insecurity and instability are threatening the Church’s future and creating displacement, education, and healthcare crises.
Pastor Barnabas and Christian leaders across sub-Saharan Africa are calling on the global Church to act through the Arise Africa campaign.
>> Photo 1: PASTOR BARNABAS AND HIS WIFE IN THEIR TINY TENT
>> Photo 2: PASTOR BARNABAS TEACHES SOME OF THE CHILDREN IN THE CHRISTIAN REFUGEE CAMP
You are invited to share in the pain of Pastor Barnabas and others, speak out against violence, pray with conviction and stand as one with your persecuted brothers and sisters. Your gifts, prayers and actions today can help stop the violence and start the healing.
Open Doors’ local partners have already provided emergency food and medical help to Pastor Barnabas and other Christians in the refugee camp. Skills training and trauma healing are coming soon. With your support, the persecuted Church in subSaharan Africa remains strong and resilient. And Christians like Pastor Barnabas will not give up...
“God has sustained me and kept me, and I will not lose my confidence in Him,” said Pastor Barnabas. “Our eyes and our hope are on God. If God will fight this battle for us, a day shall come when we will live a good life.”
WILL YOU STAND WITH THE CHURCH IN AFRICA?
Now, African church leaders are asking you to join them in stopping the violence and starting the healing.
Through Arise Africa, a global campaign, you can stand alongside your persecuted family:
• Stand with 16,2 million Christians driven from their homes by violent persecution.
• Provide four million believers spiritual, emotional and physical support by 2027.
• Strengthen the sub-Saharan African Church to be resilient, resourceful and influential.
PLEASE PRAY
*For Pastor Barnabas and his family, their suffering will end, their faith will remain strong, and their lives will be filled with hope.
*For violence to stop. Ask God to change the hearts of those intent on destruction and evil and pray for peace in sub-Saharan Africa.
*Pray for healing to start. Pray for justice and restoration for persecuted communities and Open Doors partners delivering trauma healing.
Note from the editor
Please visit the organisation’s website for more information about how you can get involved and help those forgotten Christians in need. This is a real-life story, and we cannot ignore it. The world is in chaos because too many Christians choose to ignore the evil that is going on around them. Help us to reach out to people like Pastor Barnabas and his family, whose only crime is that they follow our Lord and Saviour, Jesus Christ.
PICTURE BOOK IMPACTS MILLIONS
“If your plan is for 1 year – plant rice
If your plan is for 10 years – plant trees
If your plan is for 100 years – educate children”.
(Unknown)
The Jesus Messiah picture book, a global phenomenon, is making a profound difference in society, impacting millions across Africa and beyond. This graphic novel about Jesus’s life, created in 1993 by Willem de Vink from the Netherlands, narrates the story leading up to Jesus’ birth and beyond into His early ministry. Its appeal transcends age, with children and adults finding joy in its pages.
A celebratory event was held in 2023 in Holland to mark the 30th anniversary of the Jesus Messiah picture book. More than 30 years ago, the first books were printed, and their global impact since then is truly remarkable. With over 250 translations and counting, the book is reaching more and more people, introducing them to Jesus and helping many learn English. The book’s official website is a testament to its inclusivity. It is meticulously organized by continent, country, and language, ensuring that anyone, anywhere, can freely access the digital PDF books, thereby making the book’s message available to all. South Africa, with its 11 official languages, has already seen the booklet translated into a few of them: English, isiZulu, SiSwati, Sotho, and Afrikaans.
Tens of thousands of books have found their way all over Swaziland, making a massive difference in the lives of those who receive them. The team has visited almost every school in two provinces and is now targeting the other provinces.
SWAZI VISION
Leo has a heartwarming story to share about distributing the book. He recalls a recent visit to a school that was quite challenging to reach due to the road’s poor condition. Although the school had been informed about the visit beforehand, nobody seemed to be aware of it upon arrival, and there was no organisation in place. Eventually, they found the person who had been contacted, and she explained that although she knew about the planned visit, many others had made similar promises and never followed through. Thus, they were the first visitors the school had ever received.
Leo remembers, “While we were in Eswatini, we were also looking forward to the work of the Lord in Southern Africa. We sent 1,000 books to Mozambique a few weeks ago, where children received them joyfully. Local officials also appreciated the books. The response we received was, ‘What a great treasure! It’s wonderful to know that long after we leave, people will continue to read the Gospel truths.’ “
Leo and his team delivered 5,000 books to schools in Lesotho. Shortly after, they received a request for another 5,000 books. In addition, they delivered 1,000 books to the KwaSizabantu Mission in KwaZulu-Natal for its 50th Year youth conference. They received 4,000 books in English, 4,000 in Portuguese, and 1,000 lesson books in English and French from the printers, which need to be distributed.
”50,000 BOOKS WERE PRINTED IN AFRIKAANS. LITERATURE4AFRICA DISTRIBUTED THESE BOOKS TO SCHOOLS, POLICE STATIONS, HOSPITALS, AND OTHER PLACES IN THE WESTERN CAPE PROVINCE. A WEBPAGE HAS BEEN SET UP FOR THE AFRIKAANS DISTRIBUTION OF THE JESUS MESSIAH BOOK: JESUS MESSIAH
A friendly face can hide a dark past
FOR OVER THREE YEARS, I FREQUENTLY ENCOUNTERED A PARTICULAR WOMAN AT CEDAR INTERNATIONAL ACADEMY. WHAT DREW ME TO CECILE VENTER WAS HER WIDE SMILE AND WARM GREETINGS. MANY PEOPLE ARE PLEASANT AND GREET YOU WITH A SMILE WHEN THEY SEE YOU, BUT WITH CECILE, IT WAS DIFFERENT. SOMETHING ABOUT HER FASCINATED ME, ALTHOUGH I COULDN’T QUITE PUT MY FINGER ON IT UNTIL I HAD A DISCUSSION WITH HER. LITTLE DID I KNOW THAT A DARK PAST LAY BEHIND HER OPEN, HONEST, AND AMIABLE DEMEANOUR.
Only recently did Cecile discover the value of bringing a dark past into the light and sharing it with others so the inner burden becomes lighter. She would like to help others by sharing her experiences with them and encouraging them.
CHILDHOOD
Born in the Southern Free State on a farm in the Philippolis district as one of twins, Cecile was the only daughter with three older brothers and a comfortable life. Like many others, Cecile began to rebel in her teenage years. She was only 13 years old when her mother got cancer. The family thought putting the twins in a boarding house was reasonable to get them away from the environment. However, this did not sit well with Cecile. She experienced rejection when they were sent away, and she hated it. She wanted to be at home.
WRONG LIFE CHOICES
And because men disappointed her, she turned to women and began to lead a homosexual life. Cecile told me, “It is nonsense that one is born this way. It is a life choice you make, just like you decide to commit other sins such as smoking, drinking, stealing, and using drugs. It’s an evil spirit that takes possession of you, and if this spirit is in you, you recognise other people with the same spirit in them. It helps you to form possible homosexual relationships.
“I always knew I was sinning, but because I was constantly intoxicated, I didn’t care,” Cecile continued. She quickly switched to CAT (Crystal Meth) and went to England for two years to work in factories there.
Her mother, who had recovered from cancer previously, got cancer again and passed away when Cecile was 23. Cecile returned to South Africa for her mother’s funeral but soon returned to England.
STORIES
Unfortunately, due to her domestic circumstances, she did not have a strong role model during her childhood. Her parents often fought, and the children ended up in the middle. For a long time, she felt as if she had no identity and that her life did not matter. Cecile completed Grade 12 but remained a rebel for a long time and began to live a life she is not proud of today. She started smoking, drinking, and partying.
The absence of security and absence of a role model during her childhood led Cecile to rebel, which had serious consequences for her. She yearned for acceptance and readily gave in to peer pressure. When her so-called friends claimed that marijuana instils fearlessness, she wasted no time trying it. She believed that drugs made her brave, and the one she feared the least was the Lord.
According to her, some so-called friends could afford drugs and only wanted her to use drugs with them. They gave it to her. She also stole to support her drug use. Her life quickly spiralled out of control until her father’s new wife saw her distress and recommended that she get help.
A LIFE RESTORED
Cecile was 28 when she came to the KwaSizabantu Mission in Kranskop, and 14 years later, she is still there and very happy. She decided to change her life before coming to KwaSizabantu when she listened to a sermon by a reverend from Tzaneen. Even though she could not remember his name, he touched her soul, and she then listened to her parents and was taken to KwaSizabantu. Her life did not change immediately. It was a slow process, but it was all worth it.
“I went to the Mission to start a new life and serve others,” she explains.
One of the people who helped Cecile at KwaSizabantu was Esther Bornman. Cecile can’t stop talking about the role Esther played in the change in her life: “Esther is one of the motherliest figures I know. Her gentleness, understanding, unconditional acceptance and love for her fellow human beings were the decisive factors that helped me recover.”
Today, Cecile is happy and does her part to help lead others on the wrong path to the right one. She currently works at the Cedar Academy at the Mission, where she is among people who care for her and have accepted her unconditionally.
VISIT: WWW.CYPSA.CO.ZA
A father’s priority
OVER THE LAST TWO YEARS, I HAVE HAD NUMEROUS INTERVIEWS WITH YOUNG MEN WHO HAVE RECOVERED FROM DRUG, ALCOHOL, AND OTHER ADDICTIONS. A COMMON DENOMINATOR, WHICH PLAYED A MASSIVE ROLE IN THEIR TROUBLED PAST, WAS THE LACK OF A FATHER FIGURE IN THEIR LIVES. BOYS NEED A FATHER AS A ROBUST ROLE MODEL, AND GIRLS NEED A FATHER TO LOOK UP TO. WE ASKED DR PETER HAMMOND WHAT HE BELIEVES THE PRIORITIES OF A FATHER ARE, AND THIS IS PART ONE ON THE SUBJECT.
As a father, one of my greatest desires and priorities has been to bring up my children “in the training and instruction of the Lord” (Ephesians 6:4). Parents are to “train a child in the way he should go” (Proverbs 22:6). My most significant concern is that my children (and grandchildren) grow up to love the Lord with all their heart, all their soul, all their mind, and all their strength. I pray that my children will grow to love, trust, obey, worship, and serve God more consistently and effectively than I have.
We are to “tell the next generation the praiseworthy deeds of the Lord, His power and the wonders He has done so that the next generation would know them, even the children yet to be born, and they, in turn, will tell their children. Then, they would put their trust in God, not forget His deeds, but keep His commands. They would not be stubborn and rebellious whose hearts were not loyal to God, whose spirits were not faithful to Him”
(Psalm 78:4-8)
As a father, I take on the sacred responsibility of nurturing my sons and daughters to become God-fearing fathers and mothers. I must ensure that they, in turn, raise Godfearing sons and daughters who will become fathers and mothers who will love, honour, trust, and obey God. We are to raise disciples who will raise other disciples, creating an unbroken chain of God’s generational blessing.
God’s grace has blessed me with four beautiful children: two daughters and two sons. And three grandsons. For the benefit of younger parents, let me share some practical strategies and tactics I have sought to employ in disciplining my children. I share these cautiously because my late wife, Lenora, and I considered ourselves very much on-the-job learners. I still have much more to learn and improve as I seek to help raise my grandchildren. Nevertheless, we came a long way, battling medical crises and developmental challenges while engaged full-time in missionary work, juggling homeschooling and many other commitments. Perhaps some of our experiences and practices will be helpful to other parents.
LOVE FOR GOD AND HIS WORD
A parent’s priority is to ensure their children love God and His Word. Some of this can be taught, but most of it is caught. It is not enough for a father to teach his children to love and honour God and His Word; they must see their parents love God and His Word. Our daily example is a more important teaching tool than our words. So, whatever we teach our children, we need to model by example for them.
We strived to teach our children a love and respect for God’s Word, the church, and the Lord’s Day. Children thrive on routine and rhythm. That is why ensuring that our calendar reflected our faith was most important. Habits and routines are a vital part of discipleship. We should make time for those things we deem essential. God decreed that we should work six days and give the seventh to rest and worship. It was so important to God that He gave us an example to follow by resting after creating the universe. Setting aside the first day of the week as a special day is good for our body, mind, and soul. We need time set aside for relaxation, reflection, and restoration.
This is a matter of rhythm and routine, as well as revelation and remembrance of the Lord’s great works of creation (Exodus 20:8-11) and salvation (Deuteronomy 5:12-15).
RELATIONSHIP MANAGEMENT
Any relationship needs quality time, and we should devote at least one day a week to developing and deepening our relationship with our Lord and Saviour, Jesus Christ. Therefore, we should do everything possible to protect the Lord’s Day from being encroached upon and desecrated. In our family, shopping, sports, homework, or worldly entertainment were unacceptable activities for any Sunday.
Preparing for Sunday worship began the day before as we ensured our children got to bed early enough to be well-rested. We can also encourage our children to respect where we gather for Sunday worship and the Lord’s Day by helping them wear their best clothes for the Lord’s house and ensuring we arrive early enough for worship with expectant and teachable hearts and minds.
After church, we sought to discuss with our children what they had heard and learned and how we could best apply these principles of Scripture. Scripture memorisation is vital in discipleship:
“How can a young man keep his way pure? By living according to Your Word. I have hidden Your Word in my heart that I might not sin against You.”
(Psalm 119:9-11)
“Let the Word of Christ dwell in your heart richly as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom and as you sing Psalms, hymns and spiritual songs with gratitude in your hearts to God. And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the Name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through Him.”
(Colossians 3:16-17)
If we build our children’s lives upon the rock of God’s Word, they will stand in the storms of life that will most surely assail them (Matthew 7:24-27).
SECULAR VERSUS REAL SUCCESS
>> By Dion Knoesen
IN TODAY’S SECULAR WORLD, WHERE THE DEFINITION OF ‘SUCCESS’ IS DEBATED, DION KNOESEN OFFERS A UNIQUE PERSPECTIVE. HE SHARES HIS VIEWS ON THE CONCEPT AS PERCEIVED IN A SECULAR WORLDVIEW COMPARED TO THE TRUE SUCCESS CONFIRMED BY GOD’S WORD, DELVING INTO CRUCIAL MATTERS SUCH AS THEOLOGY, CREATION, TRUTH, AND LIFE OR DEATH.
Some people believe it is impossible to find an absolute definition of the term ’success.’ In contrast, others claim that no ultimate definition can exist because no definition would be suitable for all. Therefore, the term ’success’ is of relative value. Some see and value it one way, while others see and value it another.
Due to the lack of a clear and specific secular worldview, many individuals find themselves in a personal struggle, a weighty responsibility, believing they have no choice but to define success in life for themselves as they go through life.
As a result, people generally do their best to live according to their idea of success, facing a series of trial-and-error experiences within an uncertain environment influenced by everchanging rules. This uncertainty underscores the need for a guiding perspective on success. Against this backdrop, millions chase dreams and aspirations, hoping to make the right choices while striving to do things correctly.
Many blindly pursue the unknown, hoping that by sticking to their interpretations and understanding of life and working hard toward their own goals and objectives, they will one day reach the pinnacle of success that life offers those who seek it. However, there is an argument that favours calling for this skewed thinking of the masses to more seriously consider giving way to a view that identifies and values “success” as something far more significant than the mere acknowledgement and measurement of achievements, accomplishments, or failures at any given time in the life of a person, or a collective body like an organisation.
THE JOURNEY
The argument suggests that success should be viewed as a journey, not just a single event of acknowledgement and measurement. This perspective emphasizes the importance of the entire journey, making every step, every decision, and every experience valuable, rather than just the specific day when individual or collective achievements or failures are measured. This view can inspire us to appreciate the process, not just the outcome.
It’s important to note that the journey to success requires sincere commitment, not just optimistic involvement or hopeful participation. Passionate commitment is essential for achieving end goals and demonstrates the quality and integrity of daily contributions to the journey. The integrity of one’s commitment is tested when the success journey demands disciplines such as strategising, planning, structure, systems, and application of skills, practices, and procedures.
Each discipline must have a clearly defined purpose and receive a result-oriented focus. This approach allows for calculating the required input for success and aligning this input with the desired result before the journey begins. The achievement of success will be measured at the end of the trip.
PERSONAL EXPERIENCE
I have personally experienced a journey from beginning to end, and I can testify that, as I approach the final stretch of my life, I have failed to maintain continuous secular success despite reaching many pinnacle points. My failure is simply because I lived a life without God in it.
I have built up many successes as much as I have destroyed what I built and intended to last; I have built relationships with many people as much as I have destroyed many relationships. Over the years, I have been haunted by what I destroyed, much more than being pleasantly reminded of what I built. My haunting experiences have been an inexplicably relentless and painful daily punishment.
Then, one day, I got to know who God is. Secular success is not comparable to real success, which is the most vital pursuit in life. Real success, as can be factually confirmed in God’s Word, is guaranteed success. When Moses died, Joshua took over the leadership role in bringing Israel into the Promised Land – this being God’s desired result for Israel at that time. God promised Joshua that he would be successful, “for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.” However, God’s promise was subject to following His “secret for success,” which included specific disciplines that Joshua had to follow in his leadership task, as shown in Joshua 1:5-9:
“Be strong (confident) and of good courage,” “Do according to all which Moses commanded you,” “Be strong, vigorous and very courageous,” “Be not afraid, neither dismayed.”
Doing these disciplines solidified Joshua’s “faith in action,” proving that Joshua had to play his part in God’s plan.
These disciplines rested on the foundational truth that remains today: ‘To believe in, trust in, and rely on God who created the heavens - God Himself, who formed the earth and made it. He who established it and did not create it to be a worthless waste; He formed it to be inhabited. He, who is the Lord, and there is no one else like Him, He “the Sovereign Ruler, who calls forth loyalty and obedient service,” ‘and there is no other god besides Me.’ Joshua had to cease trusting in a weak, frail, and dying man, and he could not even trust in his strength and wisdom, for ‘only in the Lord shall one say, “I have salvation and victory and strength to achieve.”’
This means that Joshua had to have a personal relationship with God – something we must have today through His Son, Jesus Christ, our Savior. Joshua had to be confident in God and know, understand, and realise that God is in control. He promised that those who favour His righteous cause and enjoy His righteousness will shout for joy and be glad. They will magnify the Lord continually, the Lord Who takes pleasure in the prosperity of His servants.”
The success God wants for His children is not only earthly possessions and fame; it is success in spiritual growth and a personal relationship with God through Jesus Christ. God wants His children to experience success on this side of the grave. Mankind must realise that God’s successful journey for mankind begins this side of the grave and only comes to a physical end before those who are His true children start living eternity with Him. That is the real kind of success mankind must aim for and live for because real success is having your name written in the book of the Lamb.
May God, in His mercy, guide you towards seeking His successful journey and bless you as you walk and live within only His successful journey framework. Amen.
DOCTORS FOR LIFE MAKES A DIFFERENCE
DOCTORS FOR LIFE INTERNATIONAL NPC (DFL) WAS ESTABLISHED IN 1991 TO UPHOLD THE SANCTITY OF LIFE, PROMOTE SOUND SCIENTIFIC PRACTICES, AND PRESERVE JUDEO-CHRISTIAN ETHICS WITHIN THE MEDICAL PROFESSION. THE ORGANISATION HAS APPROXIMATELY 1,653 MEDICAL PRACTITIONERS AND STUDENTS AS MEMBERS WHO SHARE THESE VALUES.
In line with its vision, DFL has initiated several humanitarian projects to assist impoverished and disadvantaged people in Africa. These projects aim to save lives and alleviate suffering while respecting and promoting personal dignity.
AID TO AFRICA
One of DFL’s initiatives is the ‘Aid to Africa’ (A2A) program, launched in 2001. This program provides free medical and humanitarian relief to the most remote and unreached parts of Africa, using a holistic approach to treating individuals who often only have a once-in-a-lifetime access to medical care.
According to the WHO report on Africa, only 65% of births are attended by skilled health personnel, with neonatal deaths accounting for 50% of the mortality rate of children under five years old. A staggering 94% of the total 249 million cases of malaria worldwide occur in Africa. Children under five years of age account for about 78% of all malaria deaths in the region.
Approximately 26.3 million individuals in Africa experience some form of visual impairment, with an estimated 5.9 million suffering from blindness. Alarmingly, up to 80% of these cases could be prevented or treated. Despite this, a significant portion of the population remains blind due to inadequate eye-care services.
PERSPECTIVES
Dr Carl-Heinz Kruse (MB ChB FCOphth, MMed (Ophth), past Head of Ophthalmology, University of KwaZulu-Natal) shares the following perspective:
“My first mission with DFL, A2A, occurred in a remote corner of western Zambia. Due to the lack of available local treatment, many of the patients I operated on were suffering from curable blindness or severe visual impairment due to dense cataracts left untreated. I fondly remember bedding in tents and dining beneath the vast African sky. The profound impact on the patients and the excellent logistical support provided by the DFL team have led me to participate in 22 medical outreaches with them. From an ophthalmologist’s perspective, volunteering with DFL has been an ‘eye-opening experience’ in more ways than one.”
Over the past 22 years, A2A has performed approximately 4,400 eye surgeries and about 50 campaigns in some of the most remote and underserved regions across 11 African countries, including areas in SA, Lesotho, Angola, Zambia, Zimbabwe, Malawi, Botswana, South Sudan and Mozambique. DFL sponsored the means to enable a further 650 eye surgeries at local medical facilities.
Dr Bayanda Mbambisa, (MBBCh (Wits), DA (SA), FCOphth (SA), Med (Ophth)) past president of the Ophthalmological Society of South Africa, says, “I volunteered to join DFL on a medical mission to South Sudan in April 2024, where I once again witnessed the transformative power of medical missions firsthand. I was inspired by the colleagues who dedicate their lives to work and live in these and other remote areas. We performed numerous eye surgeries, bringing hope and healing to those in need. The mission trip has ended, but for those operated on, the impact will last a lifetime.”
RESTORING SIGHT
The restoration of sight profoundly transforms the lives of those who have been blind for many years. It is immensely gratifying to witness the joy of someone regaining sight for the first time in years and realising the vast possibilities it opens for them. To date, DFL has provided approximately 390,000 medical examinations and treatments. These include the distribution of about 6,200 pairs of spectacles, maternity care and 3,000dental procedures.
DIFFERENCE
>> By Eugene Visser
Medical outreaches typically occur over 2 – 4 weeks and involve long journeys and medical work under challenging conditions. The long-term goal of A2A is to establish permanent medical facilities that provide free medical care in disadvantaged areas. Doctors for Life International Centro de Saude de Sihane was DFL’s first permanent medical clinic, officially opened in 2009 in Zavora, Mozambique. The clinic conducts approximately 25,000 free consultations per year. Focusing on maternity care, 2,400 babies have been born at the clinic. Among a range of illnesses, malaria accounts for a significant proportion of medical emergencies presented to the clinic.
DFL is dedicated to strengthening healthcare systems in the countries where they operate. They provide essential medications and conduct skills training programs for local healthcare practitioners. The goal is to promote self-sufficiency and sustainability within the community healthcare system. DFL also promotes health by improving access to clean drinking water through wells and boreholes for communal use in areas where clean drinking water is scarce or difficult to obtain. According to the WHO, water scarcity affects one out of three African people. DFL’s borehole project has benefited nearly 20 communities in four countries.
Hundreds of health professionals, including surgeons, specialist physicians, general practitioners, dentists, nurses, and support staff, have volunteered their time and skills. Without their valuable contributions, DFL would not have been able to positively impact so many people.
AID PROJECTS
Another vitally important DFL project is Project LifeChild. Since 2001, DFL has operated the LifeChild project, consisting of five Orphan Care Centers on land donated by tribal authorities in
rural KwaZulu-Natal. LifeChild provides vulnerable children safe access to nutritional meals, medical care, clothing, and education. Approximately 100 children are nurtured within their own culture and community while learning values and skills that will enable them to become responsible members of society. Orphans live with family members and visit our daycare centres for their basic needs.
DFL has acknowledged the need for a program to help individuals leave the sex trade and has begun reaching out to women who wish to exit prostitution. They offer counselling, rehabilitation, and skills training as alternatives. The team also assists women at night. In addition to its humanitarian projects, DFL has advocated for its members on ethical issues and conscientious objection within medical practice since 1991. Medical professionals witness the harmful effects of societal problems such as abortion, substance abuse, suicide, sexually transmitted diseases, domestic violence, and sexual assault. DFL collaborates with legal professionals to make a difference when ethics and sound science are at risk. Legal involvement is vital for upholding moral values and integrity within the medical profession and society. DFL has been involved in numerous significant court cases in South Africa.
Dr. Albu van Eeden is a founding member and the current CEO of DFL. He is supported by a dedicated board of directors, fulltime staff members, numerous volunteers, and an extensive membership base. DFL continues to expand and profoundly impact the African continent and society.
>> Pictures provided by DFL
BOOK REVIEW
BOOK OF MALICE REVIEWED
IN THE PREVIOUS TWO DEVOTED EDITIONS (ISSUES 44 AND 45), WE BEGAN REVIEWING ERIKA BORNMAN’S BOOK, “MISSION OF MALICE: MY EXODUS FROM KWASIZABANTU MISSION”. NEW24 WIDELY PROMOTED THIS BOOK, SHARING ITS CONTENTS WITH THE PUBLIC WITHOUT TESTING THE INFORMATION OR VERIFYING THE FACTS. BORNMAN WAS THE KEY WITNESS IN THE CASE AGAINST KWASIZABANTU, AND ADRIAAN BASSON (EDITOR-IN-CHIEF) CALLED HER THE NEWS24 “WHISTLEBLOWER”. IF THERE IS ONE THING I KNOW ABOUT MEDIA INFORMANTS IN NEWS REPORTING, IT IS THAT THEY SHOULD BE CREDIBLE WITNESSES.
Sadly, this book has won an award. It has been discussed so many times on public platforms without anybody questioning the author about the truthfulness of the content or even trying to look for and understand the story behind the story. The sensation and distortions were shared by keyboard warriors, consumed by unsuspecting readers, and created quite a stir on social media and other platforms.
I have been repeatedly asked to review this book due to my background in researching unethical journalism and publishing “A Journey to the Truth, the Case of KwaSizabantu Mission”. Despite my initial reluctance, I started rereading Bornman’s book after my three-year research in the KwaSizabantu/News24 coverage. I found numerous gaps in the book. I cannot comment on an author’s experience, but I can question the truthfulness of the many serious accusations made in this book against individuals and the mission under discussion. I did that, and the answers I got back made me believe there is a story behind the story that should be shared.
One serious gap was that none of the allegations were supported by evidence. This is a serious gap because an accused remains innocent until he/ she is found guilty in a court of law. More than four years after News24 made those serious allegations and requested authorities to intervene, no arrests were made. On the contrary, an independent panel of law experts exonerated the mission from all the serious allegations and questioned the credibility of the so-called evidence (News24 affidavits) and the complainants. The CRL Rights Commission announced that the mission is not a cult.
The chairperson remarked at a press conference that the media misused the word “cult”. Despite these official reports favouring the mission, the accusers were unhappy with the findings and tried to discredit the report. There seems to be another story behind this story, and I am following it for Book 2…
THE RIGHT TO REPLY
News24 has not allowed those who were unfairly accused to defend themselves against the many serious accusations. The accused were not given a fair right to reply. Why not? There are two sides to every story. Unfortunately, various media outlets have shared onesided gossip and fabrications by so-called witnesses without proper verification. In our unwavering commitment to delivering a truthful and balanced perspective, we believe it is crucial to continue sharing the other side of the story with our readers. This commitment ensures that our readers can make informed judgments about the case, feeling reassured in the integrity of our review and the importance of their role in discerning the truth, and secure in the review’s integrity.
Esther Bornman, the mother of the book’s author described above, has been a victim of the smear campaign and media attacks orchestrated by News24’s whistleblower. Although the author left KwaSizabantu three decades ago, her mother, Esther, remains a missionary resident and worker. I found this compelling reason for her to share her side of the story. She has endured attacks on her character for too long. Her right to reply is a testament to the truth in many ways.
We intend to demonstrate to our readers how important context is in news reporting or telling a story. Context is everything, allowing the person who reads or hears a story to make an informed decision. Esther’s side of the story below reveals how a single incident between two people can be communicated out of context by a third party and distort the truth so much that the original incident is highly unrecognisable. Gossip and distorted stories hurt people unnecessarily and should end. By reading this story below and understanding the power of context, our readers can feel more informed and empowered in their media consumption.
Esther Bornman wrote: This book has so many untruths and distorted stories that it is difficult to know where to start and stop. On page 10, the author writes, “She has fallen under their spell,” which refers to me, who, according to her perspective, has fallen under the “spell” of the KwaSizabantu Mission. This incident relates to a church service. The author’s experience could evoke empathy, but it is not truthful. The truth makes all the difference in concluding an incident.
Yes, I was at the Goudini meeting, but I recall it differently. The author, however, was not present at that meeting as she was a young child then. I know because I am her mother. She is my child...
At the service, a man interpreted for an isiZulu-speaking girl who was dead and rose from the dead. She shared her touching testimony. The man did not preach; he only acted as an interpreter. Unfortunately, I was so involved in my inner healing ministry that what I heard came and went. I wasn’t even aware that I needed help at all. At the time, I thought the person needing help was my husband, not me.
The burning of my clothes incident, which the author describes so dramatically in Chapter 1, draws attention to her mother’s (my) ‘strange behaviour’ right after she comes home from her visit to Kwasizabantu. The author makes the event of the burning of my clothes her property as if she were an eyewitness. She was not. The burning of my clothes can in no way be associated with KwaSizabantu.
By association, the author aims to (wrongly) show how KwaSizabantu influenced her mother (me). She seems to want to frame me as acting like someone who has sectarian laws about women seducing men. The aim was to tell her audience how she, the ‘little girl’, was harmed by that incident. That is deception.
THE TRUTH
The truth is that Erika only heard about it long after the burning of my clothes. She was not involved, and it was not her story to tell. It was not her clothes that were burnt. She was only a child and would not have understood the situation, which had nothing to do with her. It was an incident in which my husband and I willingly participated. Herewith the truth about that incident:
In 1980, my husband took me to Kwasizabantu for spiritual help. I stayed there for three weeks and received the assistance I needed. Back home, I asked my husband and my children for forgiveness one by one for things I had done wrong. My husband also later went to the mission station for a few days and received help. Reconciliation between us restored our marriage and again planted it on a firm foundation. KwaSizabantu was instrumental in restoring our marriage.
>> Read the book
Read more
For more truthful stories and to get to know her better, visit Esther’s website at www.heartatrest.net
The clothing incident was something between me and my husband. The children were utterly oblivious to it. I removed everything I had acquired from my closet from the money I earned when I went to work against my husband’s wishes. I packed it in a drawer under our bed. We waited for the right opportunity to burn it together. None of us knew about fire services on the mission at that time. I just wanted us to burn everything as it symbolised a time when there was not much harmony in our marriage.
Daniel (my husband) entered the garden when the children were asleep. He dug a big hole in the garden, hidden from the neighbours’ eyes, and then made a fire. We took all the clothes and shoes from the drawer under our bed and threw them into the fire. I seldom wore jewellery or makeup by choice, so it is another lie that I burned it.
After everything was charred and the flames died, Daniel closed the hole again. No one knew about the episode except the two of us. It also reassured my husband that I had genuinely converted because he knew almost nothing was left in the closet for me to wear - and he had no extra money for new clothes. There was no mention of Erika’s or Hanna’s (my eldest daughter) clothes, and it was only my own that I wanted to get rid of because of a deep conviction in my heart. The matter had nothing to do with the children or the public, only with me and my husband. Our children only heard about it long after when I started telling people what the Lord had done in my life.
This is what I mean by dishonest narratives. The clothes were burnt, yes, but the author wasn’t there. All the other things she mentions and describes... isn’t it to put Kwasizabantu and her mother in a bad, sectarian light? What she writes (and says) is not valid. After these loaded statements, she ends dramatically,
“Our little family of five has entered a new dispensation.”
To be truthful, yes, it is true. It was a new dispensation in our lives, but a good one— a healthy and happy one—not the one she wanted her reader to believe...
TO BE CONTINUED...
THE DISEASE OF FORGETFULNESS
>> By Ilse Schürmann
DEMENTIA IS A GROUP OF DISEASES THAT AFFECT MEMORY, THINKING, AND THE ABILITY TO PERFORM DAILY ACTIVITIES. IT MAINLY AFFECTS OLDER PEOPLE, BUT IT DOES NOT MEAN ALL OLDER PEOPLE WILL GET IT. THERE ARE MANY CAUSES, AND THE FIRST PART OF THE ARTICLE IN THE PREVIOUS EDITION OF DEVOTED, ISSUE 45, SHED SOME LIGHT ON THIS ILLNESS. PART TWO’S ARTICLE BRIEFLY DESCRIBES THE STAGES OF DEMENTIA AND HOW TO PREVENT IT. KEEP IN MIND: EVEN IF YOUR COMMUNICATION WITH A PERSON WITH DEMENTIA IS LIMITED TO HOLDING THEIR HAND, GIVING WARM HUGS, FRIENDLY SMILES, OR JUST BEING A SUNNY PRESENCE IN THEIR COMPANY, KNOW THAT THEIR HEART CENTRE WILL CONNECT WITH YOURS, AND THAT IS ALL THAT IS NEEDED AT THAT MOMENT.
STAGES OF DEMENTIA
• Stage 1: No cognitive decline
The person and their family/friends will not be aware of any changes. However, the brain’s structure might change due to nerve cells dying after losing connection with other brain cells.
• Stage 2: Very mild cognitive decline
The person might experience occasional memory lapses. At this stage, the symptoms are unlikely to affect the person’s work or social interactions.
• Stage 3: Mild cognitive decline
The loss of mental functions becomes more noticeable and may cause anxiety for the person as their symptoms start interfering with the ability to function.
• Stage 4: Moderate cognitive decline
The person may still remember the names and faces of family and friends and be able to find their way around familiar places but may start to avoid challenging situations to prevent anxiety and to hide distress from others. This stage would show a definitive decline in cognitive ability during a clinical interview.
• Stage 5: Moderately severe cognitive decline
The person may still remember their name and the names of close relatives but struggle with grandchildren’s or friend’s names. They may be able to eat normally and use the bathroom without assistance, but choosing an item to wear, for example, could become challenging. From this stage onwards, the person may no longer be able to function without some assistance.
• Stage 6: Severe cognitive decline
The person is still likely to remember their name and distinguish between familiar and unfamiliar people. They will probably need assistance with daily routines and may experience incontinence and sleeping difficulties. The person may require a higher degree of care. The person might also experience emotional and personality changes.
• Stage 7 (final): Very severe cognitive decline
In the final stage, the brain loses communication with the body, making it increasingly difficult to function. The person will lose motor skills and the ability to speak. Speech could
PREVENTION IS BETTER THAN CURE
Reduce your risk of developing dementia by maintaining a healthy lifestyle through:
• Regular exercise.
• Enjoying a healthy, balanced diet.
• No Smoking.
• Moderate use of alcohol.
• Managing chronic health problems such as hypertension, diabetes and high cholesterol.
• Getting enough sleep.
• Staying involved socially.
• Engaging in intellectually stimulating activities such as reading, doing crossword puzzles and sudoku.
TO CONTACT ADASA (ASSOCIATION FOR DEMENTIA AND ALZHEIMER’S OF SOUTH AFRICA NPC)
ADASA HELPLINE: 0860 102 681
EMAIL: INFO@ADASA.ORG.ZA
WEBSITE: WWW.ADASA.ORG.ZA
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