On the 21. July 2008 nine young South Africans went to Germany to visit in a Partnership Project the EFG Wetter/ Grundschöttel. For one week they experienced daily life in Europe and how Christians worship God there (and it was quiet different). Furthermore were they able to contribute some of their talents (like singing and dancing) in the church service. After one week they travelled together to 15th BYW Conference in Leipzig (visit
http://www.dive-deeper.com/ for more information). Over 5000 young people from all over the world gathered together to learn more about God and each other. Together they enjoyed times of worship, fellowship, teachings, drama & music performance, outreach and a variety of workshops. All together it was a wonderful, interesting and sometimes challenging experience.
In the following you can get some impressions of the visit to Wetter/ Grundschöttel and some comments of the South African group about the experience:
"Even though you are in a different country and culture, God will always speak to you when someone preaches in the church. Our cultures are different, as South Africans we like to make noise and they are very quiet people, but it was great. The conference was one of the best organised events I attended and I am thankful for this wonderful experience." (Elias)
"I enjoyed about the conference that I had the opportunity to meet so many people from all over the world." (Phindie)
I enjoyed everything we did there I loved Wetter so much. I was looking forward to come back after the Leipzig Conference and I still would love to come back. What impressed me the most at the youth conference was the singing and the worship." (Letts)
From the 12th until the 16th of December over 300 Leaders from the BCSA came together in Meyerton (southern of JB) to fellowship, learn and hear from each other what God has done amongst them.
We heard reports from the regions and departments, listened to sermons, had departmental meetings, enjoyed a wonderful banquet and had good discussions in 7 different workshops.
In terms of the BCYD three meetings were important. The report of the department (of what happened in the last year), a youth leaders meeting (of what lies ahead) and a youth ministry workshop (of what is needed). Even though it was challenging at times, it was a good opportunity to get to know each other better and to find unity in what we do for God.
All in all it was a good four days and we believe that God wants to do great things in the year ahead.
