South Africa

God’s Word for Kids

Overview

In a country that is desperate for change, Bible Society is working with World Hope Ministries to offer hope with God’s powerful word in South Africa’s schools. The objectives of this project are to engage children with the Bible Memory Verse calendar, challenging them to commit God’s word to heart.

The Need

South Africa has suffered extreme poverty, violence, and a history of racism. Almost 22% of South Africans (over 12 million people) live in extreme poverty, living on less than US$2.34 a day and unable to afford basic nutritional requirements.

Education is critical for the development of the country, but the system is experiencing real challenges. Many primary school students, especially in disadvantaged areas, cannot read or perform basic addition. More than 80% of students from disadvantaged beginnings will not reach the highest level of school. In poor areas of South Africa (about 50% of the population) children are not exposed to literacy in their earliest years.

22% >80% of South Africans (over 12 million people) live in extreme poverty. of students from disadvantaged beginnings will not reach the highest level of school.

50% of children not exposed to literacy in their earliest years.

Goals

The project will reach primary and high school children by distributing Bible Memory Verse Calendars across the region.

In January, the calendars will be distributed. In April the schools will be followed up and given guidance in motivating students to continue to memorize the Bible Verses, which will be repeated in August after school exams.

In October, Awards Ceremonies will be held to reward those who’ve participated and recited the Bible

Verses with a Certificate and a Bible, and with a Special Gift for those who’ve said the most verses fluently.

Testimonies

In schools, the project can impact over 8,000 students, along with their teachers, families and community. Connecting with 10 schools as they participate in the Bible Memory Verse Calendar Program, the project encourages individuals involved and helps them grow in their faith.

Impact Prayer Needs

“It has truly been an honour to share the Gospel with so many young people in Secondary and Primary Schools. Most of the students in these schools come from marginalised and underprivileged communities, and we were warned about unruly behaviour from those practicing witchcraft and substance abuse. Despite this, the students sat quietly and respectfully as we shared with them. So many of them were impacted by what we had to share and allowed us to lead them through a prayer of salvation. Many also requested personal prayer for themselves and family members. The light shines brightest in the darkness!”

Pastor Willy Dengler

• Pray that lives will be changed in South Africa’s schools, that God’s words would reach deep into the hearts of children, and remain there throughout their lives.