ARISE - Issue 04 - Integrity

ARISE is a free magazine produced and distributed by CBN Southern Africa bi-monthly. Our team is passionate about using this platform to share Biblical truth and to reach people with quality content that brings them closer to God.

Meet The Team

Meagan Taylor Director

Theo Mufandauya Finance Manager

Sphelele Ngcobo Content Editor & Producer

Yolanda Magida Superbook Manager

Chichi Nkholongo Ministry Support Assistant

Wendy Magida Broadcasting & Partnerships Officer

We’re a passionate team with a desire to share the Gospel with Southern Africa.

Leonie Nortje Orphan’s Promise Regional Manager

Johann Mostert Operation Blessing Regional Manager

Lehlohonolo Ramosolo Social Media Coordinator

Elginia Anthony HR & Finance Administrator

Leoni Claassen Communications & Marketing Officer

Marlene Gildenhuys Phone Call Coordinator

SERVING THE REGION WITH

INTEGRITY

Together we can impact lives and see communities transformed.

By CBN Southern Africa Director - Meagan Taylor

Integrity is not merely a word for us; it is a guiding principle that defines our values and actions at CBN South Africa.

Driven by our faith in God, and our calling to live out His purposes within our region, we believe that integrity, excellence, innovation, and Biblical leadership are the key values that shape every aspect of our work and the lives we touch.

As we serve others and see the chain reaction of this service as it inspires hope in individuals, families, communities and an entire region, we are even more compelled to uphold transparency, authenticity and honesty in all that we do. Whether we are serving at-risk children and orphans and helping them to gain quality education through Orphan’s Promise (read more about this on page 10).

Or whether we are seeing young children impacted by the message of Jesus presented in their own communities through Superbook (see page 12) with each decision we make and every initiative we undertake, integrity remains the steadfast foundation upon which we build CBN SA.

Together we can build a legacy and see lives changed by the Good News of the Gospel.

As you scroll through the pages of Arise and read more about the work of our organisation, rest assured that your support is changing lives.

Every donation is treated as a sacred trust, and our goal is to ensure it reaches those who need it most. If you would like to find out how to partner with us and donate to CBN SA, turn to page 18.

Inspired by the wisdom of Martin Luther King Jr., we understand that the time is always right to do what is right… and there is no greater time to make an impact for the Kingdom of God than right now! Together we can build a legacy and see lives changed by the Good News of the Gospel.

It is our belief that integrity transcends convenience and circumstance - it is an unwavering principle that guides us every step of the way. As such, we remain steadfast in our commitment to serve Southern Africa, knowing that integrity is the compass that points us in the right direction.

Join us on this remarkable journey; it is one where faith and integrity intersect. Soon enough, we will experience a ripple effect of love, compassion, unity and transformation throughout our beautiful land.

We are thrilled to announce a groundbreaking development for ARISE magazine - it is now interactive and digital! Embracing the ever-evolving world of technology, we have transformed our beloved publication into a dynamic and immersive experience for our readers. With the new interactive format, you can now dive deeper into captivating stories, engage with multimedia content, and embark on interactive journeys that bring the pages to life to showcase the difference that you have made!

Transforming

LIVES THROUGH ORPHAN’S PROMISE

Life in some of the remote villages across Southern Africa is not always easy. Limited access to resources, joblessness and poverty are just some of the societal issues faced in these areas every day. Today, however, we meet two young girls whose lives have been forever impacted through key educational programmes in the area.

Thanks to the generosity of our partners, Orphan’s Promise serves vulnerable children throughout the region, many of whom would not be able to access quality education and care, without Orphan’s Promise support. Funding through key partnerships helps us to empower the next generation with the care, love and support they need to thrive.

Meet Future Doctor Lumile

Meet Asphile

A True Friend

The two young girls from a KwaZulu-Natal hamlet who are prospering today and have big dreams for the future.

Lumile Nzuza (pictured on the left with Orphan’s Promise Southern Africa’s Regional Manager, Leonie Nortje) is currently in Grade 4 at Isambulo School in KwaZulu-Natal. She lives with both her parents and is one of seven children. Fortunately, both her parents are employed.

Lumile was born in KwaZwelibomvu Village and has had the privilege of being enrolled at Isambulo School since Grade R. She is a fast learner and does well academically. Being at Isambulo has also benefitted her spiritually as she enjoys Bible education, prayer and regular praise and worship sessions.

Although young, Lumile is ambitious and already aspires to be a doctor someday as she has a strong desire to help people and make a positive difference in their lives. She also loves playing netball which is a popular game in her community.

Lumile’s family life is secure and her older siblings do well in helping her with her homework. The family is also privileged enough to be able to employ a helper from the community who takes care of her baby brother. This little girl is an asset to her school all round!

Asphile Shange, pictured on the opposite page (top right) was born in KwaZwelibomvu in KwaZulu-Natal where she lives in a communal home with her mother, two siblings, uncle, aunts and cousins.

She is 7 years old and currently in Grade 2 at Isambulo School. Her uncle and mother are her primary carers, but her father does pay her school fees. Asphile loves music – singing and dancing at every opportunity. She also enjoys a range of indigenous games such as Dibeke, Ntimo and Morabaraba. She enjoys hearing Gospel stories and attends the Nazareth Church with her extended family. Her favourite subjects at school are isiZulu and Maths.

Asphile found it difficult to forge meaningful friendships. However, she has recently connected well with the other children and is enjoying new friendships. She speaks and reads English well, which the others admire.

Through key partnerships, Orphan’s Promise has a direct impact to reach children with care, education and the Gospel of Christ. We are thankful to our partners for standing alongside us as we take Jesus to the children. Join us on this exciting journey and find out how you can make a difference with your donation to Orphan’s Promise on page 18.

Giving The Gift of Jesus

Click

Superbook is excited to invite you into our exciting world where young and old alike can gather to experience the Bible like never before.

The amazing animated Superbook series takes viewers on a journey to discover the Bible, with captivating characters that share moral truths to instill hope and reveal the love of God.

Our aim at Superbook Southern Africa is to partner with key organisations to establish Superbook Clubs throughout the region. These clubs take place directly in the community on a regular basis, where children gather to watch Superbook, engage in activities, games and more to explore the Bible and grow a deeper understanding of who they are in Christ.

We recently spoke to Michael Carolissen, the founder and operations director of The Father’s Heart Community Development, which runs a Superbook Club in Fisantekraal every Monday for a group of children in the neighbourhood. Here, the local children eagerly gather to watch Superbook and take part in fun activities that bring the lessons to life.

“Every Monday we show the video, we then interact with the kids using the activities. It is literally the best, it’s the best tool that I’ve come across for exactly this,” explains Michael.

“And what Superbook has done is, it’s brought in Jesus and that’s what we want… that’s where the ultimate change comes in. So, to see children that started off not even understanding or knowing where they come from, not knowing that God exists… Actually, answering questions based on what they’ve seen in the lessons, interacting and being excited, wanting to know more, wanting to know when we coming back! And then adding the animation, which draws the focus of these children. We’ve got kids that have learning disabilities. We’ve got kids with ADHD. We have kids that are just naughty. Once that video starts, they are focused, they have settled down, and they love it. And that is the most amazing thing to see.”

We are excited to see young lives transformed by the message of the Gospel as children meet in a safe space every week to engage with Biblical content and develop their spiritual lives, demonstrate a commitment to addressing critical needs within communities and improving lives on multiple fronts.

Do you want to start your own Superbook Club in your community? Get in touch and let us help you get started. Remember to follow Superbook Mzansi on social media for updates.

Nolinde’s Journey TO RESTORED Sight

CBN SA recently met with Nolinde Mtho from Corhana Village, Mqanduli, in the Eastern Cape of South Africa. As a mother and grandmother, Nolinde used to rely on the help of her daughters because she battled with the effects of cataracts that caused blurry vision and eventually led to complete blindness at the end of 2022.

Without sight, life became very difficult. Nolinde explained: “My life changed so much because I cannot do things I used to do by myself. I can’t do anything now. I can’t do anything, I’m blind. I just wish to be able to see and do small things around my house.”

CBN SA’s Operation Blessing then identified Nolinde as a candidate for life-changing cataract removal surgery, in partnership with a medical team working at Zithulele Hospital in the Eastern Cape. The surgery is a relatively quick and safe process with a very high success rate for restoring lost eyesight. Nolinde was beyond excited to know that she was selected for this life-changing surgery and that she would be able to reclaim her life.

Operation Blessing

lives

“I used to cry a lot. I couldn’t sleep because I was very hurt by losing my sight”, she explained. “I would cry until my chest was wet. But those tears came to an end. I’m happy with my family… my grandkids and daughter.” After surgery, Nolinde expressed her sheer joy at being given a new lease on life. “God is good. He’s full of miracles; He is able. He showed His mercy!” From needing help with daily tasks to finding renewed energy to live her life, Nolinde is filled with hope and joy.

I can see everything now, even the trees… and the car that passes by… it’s God’s plan. I’m nothing without Him. I’m very very happy! Nothing bothers me!” Thanks to generous partners for sowing into the work of Operation Blessing in Africa, we were able to assist several individuals, like Nolinde, with life-changing surgery to improve not only their physical eyesight but restore hope and spiritual vision.

Nolinde was filled with thanksgiving as she shared: “I can forget many things but I will never forget this… I will never forget what they did for me. I felt like I was dead even though I was alive because I couldn’t see anything. My life was just miserable. I couldn’t do anything at home, I couldn’t even see my own home. I’m very grateful, and I will forever be grateful! Thank you my Lord, thank you Jesus!”

Your support helps us to change lives in tangible ways. We invite you to join us and help change someone’s life for the better, just like Nolinde’s. Turn to page 18 and make a donation to CBN SA and Operation Blessing!

Pictured: A happy, smiling Nolinde shakes the hand of CBN correspondent Dan Reany.

transforming

by blessing people with life-changing procedures.

Honouring a Remarkable Life:

Pat Robertson, an Inspiration to many

Pat Robertson dedicated his life to preaching the Gospel, helping those in need, and educating the next generation. He founded the Christian Broadcasting Network and numerous organizations, including Operation Blessing, Regent University, the American Center for Law and Justice, and International Family Entertainment Inc. He was also a New York Times best-selling author and host of The 700 Club.

Pat was married to the love of his life and partner in ministry for 67 years, Dede Robertson, until she died in 2022. Together, they had four children, 14 grandchildren, and 24 great-grandchildren.

Pat had a hunger for knowledge of the Lord, and he wanted to share the love and faithfulness of Jesus with the world. His heart’s desire was that all people come to know Jesus.

Pat Robertson was born on March 22, 1930, in Lexington, Virginia, to A. Willis Robertson and Gladys Churchill Robertson. His father served for 34 years in the U.S. House of Representatives and Senate.

After graduating with honors from McCallie School, a military prep school in Chattanooga, Tennessee, Mr. Robertson entered Washington and Lee University in 1946, where he was elected to Phi Beta Kappa. In 1948, he enlisted in the U.S. Marine Corps Reserve. After graduating magna cum laude from Washington and Lee in 1950, Robertson served as the assistant adjutant of the First Marine Division in Korea. He was promoted to first lieutenant in 1952 upon his return to the United States. Mr. Robertson received a J.D. from Yale Law School in 1955 and his M.Div. from New York Theological Seminary in 1959.

In 1954, he married Adelia “Dede” Elmer Robertson. They were married 67 years before she predeceased him on April 19, 2022, at the age of 94. Together they had four children: Timothy Brian Robertson of Virginia Beach, Virginia; Elizabeth Robertson Robinson of Dallas, Texas; Gordon Perry Robertson of Chesapeake, Virginia; Ann Robertson LeBlanc of Portsmouth, Virginia; plus 14 grandchildren and 24 great-grandchildren.

In 1959, Mr. Robertson moved his family to Tidewater, Virginia, with just $70 and a vision of establishing the first Christian television network in the United States.

Although he didn’t even own a TV, he filed incorporation papers for The Christian Broadcasting Network, Inc., then raised funds to purchase a defunct UHF station. On October 1, 1961, CBN began broadcasting from WYAH-TV in Portsmouth, Virginia. At the time, its signal barely reached the city limits, recalled his son Gordon Robertson, CBN’s president and CEO.

The ministry’s scope grew exponentially over the decades, reaching viewers across America and around the globe through television broadcasts, cable, satellite, the internet, and other media. Today, CBN is one of the world’s largest evangelistic ministries, proclaiming the Good News in over 100 countries and dozens of languages, including Russian, Arabic, Spanish, French, and Chinese.

CBN’s flagship program grew out of a telethon in 1963, when Mr. Robertson asked a “club” of 700 viewers to give $10 a month. In 1966, The 700 Club program was created, airing each weekday with

interviews, prayer and ministry. Today, it is one of the longest-running religious television programs in America. He hosted the daily program until October 1, 2021, the sixtieth anniversary of CBN’s first broadcast, when he announced that Gordon Robertson would be the show’s new full-time host. Over the years, Mr. Robertson’s co-hosts included Ben Kinchlow, Sheila Walsh, Gordon Robertson, Terry Meeuwsen, and Wendy Griffith.

Throughout its broadcast history, The 700 Club and CBN News have covered national and international events and issues, including key elections, the COVID-19 pandemic, the war on terror, Israel, and the Middle East. Guests have included former Presidents Jimmy Carter, Ronald Reagan, and Donald Trump; key congressional leaders from both parties; as well as a “Who’s Who” of world and national figures, journalists, professional athletes, celebrities, and pundits.

“And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love Him, who have been called according to His purpose.”

— Romans 8:28

Regent University, originally CBN University, was founded by Pat Robertson in 1978 and has grown into a renowned academic institution for Christian thought and action with over 30,000 alumni. The university offers a wide range of degree programs and has received accreditations from recognized bodies. Regent University has been consistently recognized as a top national university by U.S. News & World Report.

Pat Robertson also established Operation Blessing in 1978, a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing relief aid and assistance to those in need around the world. Operation Blessing focuses on hunger relief, clean water, medical aid, and disaster assistance, and has made a significant impact in numerous disasterstricken areas.

In 1990, Pat Robertson founded the American Center for Law and Justice (ACLJ), a public interest law firm that advocates for the First Amendment rights of people of faith. The ACLJ has been involved in high-profile religious freedom cases, including arguing before the Supreme Court.

Pat Robertson is a prolific author, having written 24 books, several of which have become New York Times bestsellers. He has also been involved in politics, running for the Republican nomination for president in 1986 and later endorsing George H. W. Bush. Throughout his career, Pat Robertson has been recognized for his achievements and contributions. He has received various awards and honors from organizations and publications, acknowledging his humanitarian work, broadcasting, and ministry.

Your donation can help make a difference!

When you donate, you can make a profound difference in the lives of countless individuals. Your contribution supports disaster relief efforts, providing assistance to those affected by unimaginable tragedies. You help provide life-changing surgeries, giving hope and restoring health to those who desperately need it. You aid in caring for orphaned and vulnerable children, offering them love, stability, and a chance for a brighter future. Additionally, you’re enabling kids to learn biblical foundations through Superbook clubs. Together, we can make an incredible difference and take the gospel message to the nations of Southern Africa. Every contribution matters. Thank you for your compassion and support.”

CBN SA BANKING DETAILS

Christian Broadcasting Network

ABSA Bank

Cheque Account

Branch Code: 632005

Account Nr: 4077528368

Did you know? You can add CBN as a beneficiary on your MySchool card.

VISITING CBN NIGERIA Our inspiring experience

CBN SA’s recent visit to Nigeria was a truly amazing and transformative experience. We received a very warm welcome from a team of extraordinary individuals at CBN Nigeria who demonstrated a profound love for God and their communities. We had the privilege of being hosted by Dr. Felix Oisamje (Regional Director – Anglophone West Africa) and his remarkable team. Engaging in their daily devotions and prayer sessions allowed us to immerse ourselves in their deep commitment to faith.

Exploring Operation Blessing

During our visit, we had the opportunity to witness the impactful Operation Blessing Project first-hand. This project specifically focuses on empowering women, especially those living in underprivileged communities within Nigeria. Operation Blessing has successfully trained a significant number of women to create and sew beautiful handbags, which they can then sell. The women also host local Bible study groups in the area.

Women Empowerment

The women in some of the local communities often face various challenges. As a means to develop skills and earn a living, they not only craft and sell exquisite bags but also pass on their skills to other women. This creates a powerful cycle of empowerment, as women uplift one another and generate income to provide for their families. Through the sale of these bags, many women are able to make a sustainable living, addressing the needs of their households.

Diverse Impact Projects

Our time at the CBN Nigeria office allowed us to gain insight into the breadth of their impactful projects. We learned about medical brigades, life-changing surgeries, hunger relief initiatives, and WASH (Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene) projects. These initiatives demonstrate a commitment to addressing critical needs within communities and improving lives on multiple fronts.

Inspiring Television Programmes

The CBN Nigeria team produces an array of meaningful television programmes that encompass music, prayer, faith, family, and other relevant topics. These programmes are broadcast on FlameTV, reaching a wide audience and delivering messages of hope, inspiration, and guidance across the region.

Representation and Resources

CBN Nigeria represents notable initiatives, including Operation Blessing, Orphan’s Promise, and Superbook. These programmes collectively contribute to the organisation’s overarching mission of making a positive difference in the lives of both individuals and communities across Nigeria.

Serving as One

Our visit to CBN Nigeria was a truly life-enriching experience that deepened our faith and renewed our commitment to service. We witnessed the wholehearted dedication of the team as they serve their communities and this was truly inspiring. We left with a profound appreciation for the transformative power of faith and the remarkable impact that can be achieved through love, prayer, and tangible initiatives. When we serve together as one, we can continue to expand our reach, one person and one community at a time.

Passion for Prayer and Service

Throughout our visit, we were deeply moved by the team’s

immense love for prayer and their unwavering dedication to serving their communities. This passion was evident in every interaction and highlighted the impact faith can have in transforming lives.

Get Involved

To learn more about the incredible work conducted at CBN Nigeria’s office, we encourage you to visit the website at www.cbnafrica.org and watch the 700 Club Nigeria on FlameTV . These resources provide invaluable insight into the many initiatives, impact stories, and opportunities available to show your support.

By Meagan Taylor

Pictured: CBN staff join together to celebrate the beautiful culture of the nation.

Give back by Volunteering

Find out more about CBN SA and how you can help us achieve our mission.

CBN Southern Africa forms a part of our global ministry – Christian Broadcasting Network – which broadcasts to over 165 countries and territories globally.

The mission of CBN and its affiliated organisations is to prepare the nations of the world for the coming of Jesus Christ and the establishment of the Kingdom of God on earth. Our ultimate goal is to achieve a time in history when “the knowledge of the Lord will cover the earth as the waters cover the sea.”

Locally, CBN SA aims to provide opportunities, support, resources, training, and sustainability for the multiplication of the CBN ministry into our region.

How can you help?

We are looking for volunteers who are Christ-followers and who are passionate about serving our Lord Jesus Christ in their communities. These volunteers will serve within CBN SA’s five operational ministry pillars.

“…the earth will be filled with the knowledge of the Lord as the waters cover the sea.” Isaiah 11:9

CBN’S Ministries

OOperation Blessing serves vulnerable communities throughout the region with sustainable food programmes, micro-business initiatives, disaster relief and life-changing surgeries. OB partners with local organisations to bring hope and restore dignity in the lives of those who need it most.

Orphan’s Promise provides care, and education to thousands of orphans and vulnerable children within seven countries in the region.

Superbook provides dedicated resources aimed at children and families, based on our Emmy-nominated Superbook animation series. We utilise broadcasting, digital strategies and community initiatives to reach children in the region. We also facilitate public screenings, events and Superbook Clubs through key partnerships with local community organisations to present the Gospel to children.

Our Prayer Centre provides prayer and biblical resources to callers across Southern Africa. We respond to hundreds of prayer requests via various platforms including WhatsApp, telephone and email.

Media & Production

CBN SA’s Media & Production team is instrumental in sharing our core strategies through video production, social media, and digital platforms.

Happenings at

Time flies when you’re running for a good cause.

We were tasked with raising awareness for mental health through an exhilarating trail running event - Rhythm Run - in support of CBN SA and the Christian Literacy Fund (CLF).

With every step, we aimed to break the stigma of mental health and promote a culture of understanding and compassion.

A more detailed update on this inaugural fundraising event can be viewed on the Rhythm Run Facebook Page.

CBN SA’s director joins the ACM Board!

Both new and familiar faces were welcomed and announced as ACM Board representatives. We are pleased to announce that Meagan Taylor, Director of CBN SA, has been elected as a board member.

Congratulations on your appointment! May your path be filled with triumph and fulfillment in this exciting role ahead.

You can gift someone a bible by donating R50. The Ministry Support team at CBN South Africa actively gives Bibles to individuals and organizations in need. We need your support to keep up with the demand. Simply donate R50 and someone in need will receive their very own Bible.

Please see page 18 for donation information, and remember to indicate ‘Bible Donation’ when donating.

Your favorite CBN programs are now accessible on these platforms:

SUPERBOOK

FAITH AFRICA & FTV (Channel 341)

Tues at 15:30 - 16:00pm

(Repeat) Saturdays at 7:00 - 7:30am

STAR TIMES GOSPEL

Mon - Fri at 16:00 - 16:30pm

TRUTH TV

Via subscription only.

URBAN BREW (Channel 301)

Fridays at 15:00pm

Saturdays at 9:00am

LIFE CBN

Sundays at 9:00am

Tues at 10:00am

Thurs at 10:00am

ONE - CUBED

SPRINGNETWORK

Mon at 16:30pm

STORYTELLER CAFE

URBAN BREW (Channel 301)

Wednesdays at 15:00pm

Saturdays at 8:00am

THE 700 CLUB / 700 CLUB NIGERIA

FAITH AFRICA & FTV (Channel 341)

Mon at 12:00 - 12:30pm

Tues - Fri at 12:00- 12:30pm

(700 Club Euro)

SPRINGNETWORK

Mon - Fri at 05:00am

(700 Club International)

STAR TIMES GOSPEL

Mon - Fri at 8:00pm - 8:30pm

Mon - Fri at 5:00pm - 5:30pm

LIFE CBN

Tues at 14:00pm

TURNING POINT

FAITH AFRICA & FTV (Channel 341)

Tues at 4:00- 4:30pm

STAR TIMES GOSPEL

Mon - Thu at 18:00- 18:30pm

SPRINGNETWORK

Tues at 14:30pm

URBAN BREW (Channel 301)

Mondays at 11:30am

Saturdays at 17:30pm

Introducing the CBN Family App

We are thrilled to present the all-new CBN Family App where you can find your favourite CBN exclusive shows, news, movies and more.

CBN NEWS SHOWS LIVE & ON-DEMAND

AMAZING SUPERBOOK CONTENT FOR THE KIDS

BIBLICAL TEACHINGS & CBN EXCLUSIVE FEATURES

AVAILABLE FOR DOWNLOAD ON App Store

Google Play

THE 700 CLUB

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