December, 2021
Mountains & Miracles Harald Froise
F
rom Johannesburg, Sou th Africa to Bonnyville in northern Alberta, Harald continues his calling as a man of God. Raised as one of 6 children, Harald has many memories of his years growing up in a culture of many conflicts. His parents came from Norway to South Africa as missionaries. His playmates were Zulu children, his toys were mud, bricks and water and he dreamed of becoming a farmer, a doctor and a missionary at different points in his life. When Harald started school, he knew 2 languages: Norwegian and Zulu. He did not speak English, but today he is fluent in many languages. One of Harald’s early memories is of his 2 older sisters walking him to school from the mission home along the busy road in Durban. He would have to wait after school until the girls were finished. He recalls a Grade 2 student telling him, “The bell’s already gone,” to which Harald replied, “Where has it gone?” His quick wit and his humor are still evident 85 years later. Harald recalls the political unrest during his years in South Africa after the collapse of apartheid in 1990.
When he was ministering in the Gold Mines, he remembers the antagonism of Mandela and the Zulu factions that caused riots, resulting in death and injury to the workers. Harald also experienced the scepticism and belief systems of many Africans and realized that the mission field was huge. When preachers gathered in circles under trees with small congregations of 15-20 people, Harald offered them training in Bible school. He based his written material on scripture and 5 different languages, asking the preachers not to share their opinion but preach the Word of God. Because of an understanding of the African Independent churches, Harald was instrumental in mission work and saving many souls. He worked in Christian ministry and was even Administrator for World Vision in South Africa at one point. Harald and his wife raised their 2 daughters and son believing, living and preaching his faith. His advice to them and his grandchildren is to allow God to rule your life. Harald has seen many miracles and seen the work of God. Harald was sure to tell those he ministered to. One particular time was when 13 members of his class came forward for prayer, Harald
Seniors — Winter 2021
His advice to his children and grandchildren is to allow God to rule their lives. anointing each one from a jar of oil. After a month-long semester break, Harald asked each of them to share what God had done in their lives. An older man said that his ankle had been healed. Others came forward to share their stories. Harald asked if there were any more who wished to speak. Immediately, a young man asked, “Where can I buy that oil?” Eventually, Harald and his wife were sponsored by their daughter and made their way to Canada. Harald continued his love for the Lord and ministry working as an intern pastor in the Edmonton area and then to Bonnyville, where he and his former wife had a Bread and Breakfast. Since his wife’s passing, he has since moved, remarried, but continues to pastor. Perhaps he doesn’t miss the cold winters with no heat in Johannesburg; but he does miss the beautiful Zulu people, conversing and being part of their lives. UNkulunkulu muhle.
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