Surprise! We have moved! We now live in Cape Town, just over the mountain from Worcester. (Pictured above are the movers.) Days before he left for the U.S., Isaac decided that he wanted to stay in South Africa to finish school, instead of attending Boston Trinity Academy as planned. I was overjoyed and immediately made arrangements for a new house to rent close to the school, for financial aid, and to transfer our spiritual and ministry umbrella from YWAM Worcester to YWAM Muizenberg (Cape Town). And now, one month later, here we are unpacking in Cape Town! The fact that everything fell into place so quickly is a reassuring blessing.
YWAM Muizenberg is currently a short drive from us. Interestingly enough, this was the base we originally applied to before coming to South Africa. Because of their housing shortage, we were redirected to Worcester. YWAM Worcester and YWAM Muizenberg have a close relationship, due to their proximity of under 2 hours. Next month YWAM Muizenberg is starting a class on “Children at Risk.” As Alberto has one more required class to take, this class will be perfect!
How does this impact Alberto’s ministry? His prison work will remain unchanged, as he will continue visiting the prisons in Worcester, Paarl and Cape Town. His work with the rehab center was turned over to a South African man, so the timing of Alberto’s departure was good. His work with the boys will be impacted, but he plans to continue visiting them a few times a month.
How does this affect the rest of the kids? Ana will be attending university in Cape Town with the new academic year starting Jan 2017. Student accommodation is hard to come by, so having our home nearby will be important. Margaret will continue to homeschool, and is excited to be in a city again. Phoebe will be closer to the Children’s Hospital and Down syndrome center, although she will have to start over with new therapists. I am sure Cape Town has a fine selection of therapists though!
Pictures
Phoebe helps moving boxes
Happy 9th birthday to our princess!
Alberto is listening to the boys he works with.
“Braaing” with the boys (or having a cook-out!)
Last month we dropped Isaac at the airport. He is currently working in Boston, but returns to South Africa Aug 3, in time for classes to start Aug 4. He will be attending the American International School of Cape Town. It is international in its diverse student body, but American in its curriculum. This is a great combination for Isaac.
Although we received a significant financial aid package, we still need people to help us cover the difference.
Margaret’s friend Jordyn (and her mom) visited us in South Africa after a short-term mission project. Margaret then flew to Boston with them, and attended Camp Deer Run (at full scholarship) in NH. She is now visiting friends and family, and will return to South Africa with Ana Sept 5.
The Saff family came to visit the Mays and us! We have welcomed so many people this part year. It has been a huge blessing! Please know you are always welcome to visit!
Ana and Isaac volunteered at Park Street’s Kidsweek last week. Ana is still working as a nanny. She returns with Margaret Sept 5.
Financial Request
If you would like to help contribute to Isaac’s tuition at the American School, or help with our increased living expenses (our rent has doubled), please make a donation to Park Street Church with our name in the memo. The online giving link is parkstreet.org/give.
This move has been a steep step of faith, so please join us in praying for the necessary finances to enable us to do what we believe God is calling us to do. We are very grateful to each of you who gives and prays for us. Thank you.