Bands have played worship songs on the area outside the hall facing the diningroom during lunch breaks. This had added to the festivities of each day.

Andre de Villiers shared the testimony of his life through music he has composed and lyrics he was written, each one relating to specific seasons in his life. His message touched many lives, clearly sensed through the silence between each of his songs and the overwhelming applause his received at the end of his presentation.

Paul Ferreira spoke to the school on Wednesday, after Hilton Greig’s team from Harvest Church led a wonderful time of worship. Paul, through Open Doors Mission spoke on the persecution many Christians face because of their faith in and love for Jesus. Many lives were deeply touched and all the laces Paul brought were sold, with an order for 100 more! The money collected will be used to purchase children’s Bibles to take into countries were the Truth of Jesus is forbidden and people are hungry for His Word.

On Thursday morning, Phil Edmonds and two other talented friends shared a message, portrayed through drama and explained the freedom which comes when we fully rely on God.

Gary Steyn addressed the High School on our Civvies and picnic Day, all to symbolize freedom. The words in the song, “Shine Jesus Shine”, which related to Thursday was the phrase ‘set us free by the Truth you now bring us.’ Gary shared his testimony of being the child of an alcoholic, prostitute mother, eventually having a step father who was totally abusive towards Gary and his brother. This father figure was murdered in front of Gary at the age of 11. He ran away from home, school and lived a very unsavoury life.

He went on to share many more details about his life and then testified to how his life has changed to become the man he is today. His beautiful wife, Angie shared part of their romantic journey, as God graciously led them. This in itself is an amazing story as Angie comes from a very stable, protected background.

One could witness from this life journey that God has indeed revealed His redeeming love. Gary and Angie have been married for 4 years, have a beautiful baby girl and live in complete faith and trust in our Living God.

This group of gifted musicians also led worship at the Unity function in the Sports Hall in the evening. This was well attended by St Mary’s girls and other local schools: Durban Girls College, Hilton and Kearsney College in addition to youth from the area.

Brad Kleinsmith spoke on the light and Truth Jesus brings and challenged us to guard against having divided hearts. There was a meaningful time of ministry and healing after his talk; praise God to all those committed or re-committed their lives to God, in addition to those who experienced healing!

A worship group from Johannesburg, Harbour Light, led worship after Brad had spoken. One could sense that no one wanted to go home….. except that it was a school day the next day!

The week ended off with Colin Edmonds sharing at both PS and HS Assemblies, bringing closure to a very upbeat and joyous week. In as much as a great deal of our Christian Arts Festival focused on outward signs (including the star shaped biscuits decorated with edible gold glitter on the Friday), God answered our prayers faithfully and abundantly as His Spirit brought change and direction in the lives of many. To God be all the glory!

There are many people who worked tirelessly to make this week such a transforming and memorable one. Our Mums Who Pray, under the loving guidance of Debbie Longmore, created the beautiful displays in the Amphitheatre and Creativity Centre. The SCA Committee and Sacristan Body were amazing. Our Support Staff were timeous in all the extra demands made on them and Nicky Simpson worked with the energy and passion of ALL the above. An enormous thank you to you all and the many others who helped, supported and encouraged. Thank you, from the bottom of my heart.  

As with the end of our unifying Soccer World Cup, our ongoing prayers desire a deeper unity and spirit in our school family. May our Lord continue the good work He has begun. To God be all the glory!

God bless you all,
Gill Padoa