Our work this year has been centered on the denomination's efforts to increase the community outreach mission activities of the local congregations.  As an initial phase of this activity, we have been working on the planning and facilitation of a series of workshops for representatives of the local churches in KZN.  The first of these sessions, in Durban in mid-May, was reported in our May 13 newsletter, posted on the Tri-Con web site.  Our next session is July 21 at Esikhaweni -- click to view the text [it goes on UCCSA letterhead, not included] of the invitation to the 'North Coast and Zululand' session. (in English) (in isiZulu) -- with later sessions in Pietermaritzburg and at Gamalakhe (on the South Coast).  In preparing for these sessions, we have had the opportunity to meet with outside organizations involved in community work regarding the three target mission priorities of HIV/AIDS, poverty, and violence (crime and abuse issues), interested  in partnering with local churches, or serving as resource points.  In the pursuit of these contacts, we are ranging around the province, including a recent trip to Esikhaweni and Melmoth, across the Tugela River and thus in southern Zululand.

Ruthann with Prudence, Mlungisi (agricultural specialist), and the diminutive Mrs. Ndaba, head of the National Association for Women Empowerment, at the headquarters in Esikhaweni.  To the right is Florence, of the Baking Club project.  NAWE will be participating in the Esikhaweni session.

The Esikhaweni Congregational Church, where the North Coast and Zululand workshop will be held.

Inside the Baking Club building.  The members of this NAWE project meet to hold baking sessions, selling their wares at the local schools, among other places.  The provincial welfare minister recently visited to commemorate the funding they had received for the facility and the equipment.

The Khiphikhomo Baking-Club facility, in Florence's side yard, some distance (as we found) from NAWE's offices.

Ruthann in the Melmoth offices of the KwaZulu Regional Christian Council, with Rev. Buthelezi (of the Apostolic Faith Mission), secretary of the KZRCC, and Rev. Nkwanyana (of the True Bible Ministries), a board member.  The KZRCC, an ecumenical organization which is active in the Zululand areas, will also be participating in the Esikhaweni session.