August Newsletter

My name is Rochelle Hugo. I am currently undergoing missionary training on the OM REACH base in Pretoria, before stepping into the calling of full-time missions. Learning to look past my own culture and embracing the differences of others, is something I am truly looking forward to experiencing. God has placed the country of Spain on my heart in this regard and I am excited to begin that journey and to see people's lives touched by His love, as it has been locally.

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But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.

- Acts 1:8 -

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What is REACH?

It is an extensive training program designed to equip followers of Jesus to find their place in the world of missions, specifically with regards to establishing vibrant communities that focus on serving Jesus in the least reached countries. Basically? A place where you learn to become disciples focused on spreading the Gospel and equipping more disciples.

Touching Base

Arriving on base, I dreaded meeting my roommates. Having not shared a room with my sister since the 2000's, my introverted self was praying that these girls would somehow also feel a bit displaced and unsettled. Find some common ground and all. On the first night, I was astounded to find them asleep promptly at 8pm. Goodness, how the Night- owl in me freaked out. Do I pack out, or rise with the chickens and do it then? And why did I have to vacuum-pack my clothes? There's nothing more frustrating than the sound of plastic rustling while you try to sleep. UPDATE: The roommates were just exhausted. We've come to have an understanding that I will switch off all the lights, since I will probably be the last to climb into bed at night.

NEWS

Internationals vs Voortrekker Monument

The most recent intake of REACH participants has seen every continent represented (besides Antarctica, obviously). This meant that a trip to the Voortrekker Monument was in order, as it is one of the best places to learn about the history of South Africa. Most of the internationals had very little understanding of South Africa and its roots, and it was fascinating to experience it through their eyes.

We had a few fun competitions to encourage a bit of comradery between the different cultures thrust together. My slightly competitive side was ecstatic when we won third place with the photo competition.

Vicinity Ministry

We were divided into different ministry teams and sent to put a few things from our evangelism toolbox to the test. Our team went to TUKS, and partnered with an existing ministry on campus. While the first week introduced us to a different approach than we were used to, we learnt that there might not be one right way to evangelize. The second week provided an opportunity for us to engage in some great conversations and prayers with some students.

Prayer Share

Please pray with me:

• that the communities in Pretoria where we are doing outreaches will experience a real encounter with their Creator.

• that the REACH participants will continue to grow in boldness as they learn to share the Gospel with different cultures.

• that I will stay focused in continuing the habit of making my morning quiet times a priority.