| Projects Introduction |
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Local People. Local Projects. We are committed to partnering with local people in local projects. We deeply believe that the local Church is the best tool available to fight the AIDS pandemic in Africa and meet the physical & spiritual needs of orphans and vulnerable children. Strengths of the local people, local projects approach: Pastoral Care: Our partner churches in southern Africa are led by servants who care deeply for the whole person, physically and spiritually. They work tirelessly, and with limited resources. Pastors in Africa are often asked to be a friend, bedside companion, doctor, social worker, handyman, farmer, advocate, and even parent to vulnerable children. They are uniquely qualified to mobilize people and resources to combat AIDS and its effects. Often, they lack the funding, time and project management knowledge to prioritize the overwhelming challenges before them. We can help. Presence: It is estimated that people in southern Africa look to the church for over 50% of all their basic social service needs: from bedside care to education to skill development. Communities see that the church stands ready to respond to these challenges in the effort to demonstrate Jesus Christ’s love for all people. Potential to Transform Lives: The international response to AIDS must be channeled through avenues that are capable of transforming lives in sustainable ways. By combining the physical AND spiritual tools of the church, a holistic solution is possible. Individuals and communities are restored spiritually through Jesus Christ, and crucial strides are made to reverse the HIV epidemic. Partnerships: Churches throughout Africa are working together in ways unseen by many churches throughout the West. Denominations are partnering together, focused on a common cause rather than the doctrine that so easily divides. While this is still rare, we believe partnerships across the broader church should be encouraged, as they reflect the Biblical teachings to love people as Christ loved us - all of us. Possibilities: While many NGOs operate in southern Africa, their standardized methods leave little room for flexible solutions that consider the needs of individual communities. Church run projects provide local ownership and limitless possibilities. Purpose: The church has a purpose in the community that reaches beyond combating AIDS and empowering orphans. It exists to build hope, confront the ills of society, take on misbehaving governments, and stand for justice. No government, NGO, or association can claim that like the Church. People: The Church is alive with people willing to help. Jesus Christ’s love is for all and God’s people are anxious to share that love through physical assistance and spiritual restoration. They know the challenges in ways that an international NGO, government, or association cannot. The people of the local church are there to stay and will remain after AIDS is eradicated. Valuing this community is essential. |