Stellenbosch Gemeente’s outreach ministry provide opportunities for visitors and members of the congregation to get involved in Stellenbosch’s surrounding disadvantaged communities that are normally not easily accessible to them. We believe that reaching out is part of every Christ follower’s daily life and that this often requires group or project based efforts in these communities.

Why is Stellenbosch Gemeente involved in crossing borders? The answer lies in our understanding of ‘being Church’. We see Stellenbosch Gemeente as the body of Christ and therefore the hands and feet that attempt to bring God’s mercy and love to those in need. Along with Paul, we want to say: “…but I entered their world and tried to experience the things from their point of view. I've become just about every sort of servant there is in my attempts to lead those I meet into a God-saved life. I did all this because of the Message.”

We also believe that the Good News, which includes love, peace and joy, can be expressed without the use of many words. This understanding of the gospel prompts us to demonstrate Jesus’ concern for the community’s daily problems, suffering and well-being. We therefore see it necessary to be involved with issues like HIV/Aids, tuberculoses, education, life skills and sport training within the disadvantaged communities surrounding Stellenbosch.

However, positive change in people’s lives is only possible if members are prepared to be involved on grassroots level. This means building relationships, giving hope and inspiring people to become who they were created to be. By doing all this we would like to build bridges between our congregation and the disadvantaged communities, but also join forces with organisations who already (or who would want to) work within these communities.

Our efforts are merely work in progress. Much more still needs to be done.

Contact Louise Fourie for more information.