A Lockdown Smile for You

21 Days of Lockdown

These lockdown days can be tough, but there are always reasons to smile. What made you smile today? This recent picture of one of our Berakah babies made us smile because we are reminded that life will carry on after this crisis. We will once again be able to care for the least of these. And we smiled today because we thought about you, all of our sending team partners that keep us here in South Africa where we will very soon be able to be part of the recovery efforts after this storm has passed.

Today is day 6 of South Africa's mandatory lockdown, as the nation attempts to "flatten the curve" of coronavirus infections. Yesterday we saw our first day of less than 100 new infections in about a week, an encouraging sign. One person from each home is allowed to leave the house only to go for groceries, medicine, or to the bank. Hundreds have been arrested for not complying, but we are doing our part by staying on our proverbial couch!

From our couch, we're checking in on Berakah's staff and families, updating databases, and writing devotionals for Hatfield's Young Adults. Chandra also facilitated a meeting between various parties who hope to provide quick, low-cost temporary sterile structures for area hospitals to handle the possibility of increased ICU requirements during the COVID-19 crisis.

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Berakah temporary closure

Please pray for Berakah's staff and affected families and for their ability to collect unemployment during this period in which all schools are forced to close as part of the government lockdown.

Together again

After a whirlwind of securing a last-minute flight on Monday morning, Chandra made it back to South Africa with only hours to spare before the 18 March ban on international travel. We are so happy to be together!

Partner with Us

Unsure Times, Sure and Strong God

We are still called, even though we are temporarily stalled. Your support is invaluable as we prepare to fearlessly proclaim the love of God to a watching world once the lockdown is lifted. Thank you for staying committed to your giving even in uncertain times. We know you won’t regret your trust in our generous and faithful God. We celebrate people like you who stay compassionate, resilient, and consistent in caring for others in the midst of a very severe trial.

Much love and honor,
Mike & Chandra