Missions

The Blessings of Mission at St Andrews Christian College

This winter has provided for some inspiring, heart changing, Christ serving moments for a number of our St Andrews Christian College staff members as they embarked on various mission trips. We are grateful to God for the opportunities He provides to grow in Him and to share His love and light. These wonderful experiences build into the hearts and minds of our staff and in return benefit and grow our children and College.

Vanuatu Mission Trip 2017

Tata Presbyterian School

In June/July 2017 our annual trip to Vanuatu saw just myself and my wife attend due to other staff or students being unavailable this year. As such, we spent our time building upon our relationships with the people of the School.  This visit to Tata Presbyterian School gave us an opportunity to deliver 100 uniform shirts for the staff, which led to great joy and excitement upon our arrival. Having uniform shirts (much like the ones our past teams had worn on trips) to unite all their primary and secondary staff, was something the school had been wanting ever since they expanded to include secondary levels. They were thrilled to be able to have recognition as a united group, when attending big school events. Principal David was very happy and amazed at God’s provision of these shirts. We too are thankful that God used St Andrews to provide the opportunity to have them designed, purchased and delivered to the staff at Tata.

We were able to spend four nights/five days within the school community. This included teaching for 6 lessons a day, teacher training as well as assistance in night study for the secondary students (which was 7:00 to 8:30pm). It was a blessing to have time to really communicate, help and see what the important areas are that we will be able to assist with in the coming years. At the Centenary Presbyterian Church we led Sunday School for two Sundays and enjoyed special one on one times with Renata, our contact from the church. Overall a great time was had refreshing and strengthening the friendships that God has guided us to over the years.

Andrew and Sally Wade

Vanuatu Mission Trip Coordinators

2017 Mission in Malawi

It was blessing to be able to be part of the Orbus school community for orphans and the vulnerable for 2 weeks in Malawi. I taught in various classrooms with up to 60 children in a class.

The children are hungry for the word of God and want to know more about Jesus and His way, truth and life. I pray that they learn more about Jesus and live a meaningful life for Him.

There is so much poverty in Malawi. Most children speak Chichewa so it was a challenge teaching. I taught songs in English and then the teacher translated them into Chichewa. They were soon singing songs in both languages. I was privileged to go to some orphans homes where the aunty was looking after her deceased sisters’ children, as well as having 6 of her own. They live in mud huts and all sleep in the same room. They cook on the fire outside. Their homes in the villages have no electricity. Their staple diet is tsema, a nutritious porridge which is not always available. Fortunately the temperature stays between 20 and 30 degrees in winter. Fruit is plentiful and much sweeter than the fruit in Australia.

Malawians work in a Shalom community which is very close as they all look after each other. May God bless them as they continue to grow in the Lord. The theme for the school is Isiah 1:17. Defend the cause of the Fatherless.

Gail van Heerden

Junior School Teacher

Island Heart Mission Trip - Vanuatu

Serving on Mission has been one of the most amazing life changing experiences of my life. Mission  can be a humbling experience when you allow yourself to embrace and engage with the culture you serve alongside. I have had the privilege and joy over the past 6 years to serve alongside the beautiful people of Vanuatu both in Port Vila and on Pele Island through the Island Heart Ministry. We seek to make Jesus known by sharing a message of hope to struggling communities and provide them with purpose for their future.

This past month (June-July) I had the delight to lead alongside 4 dedicated team members. We experienced Gods grace and provision as we entrusted our time and program to Him, our plans turn into opportunities that only God Himself could orchestrate.

During my month in Vanuatu we ran childrens and mums programs, teaching and training of ukulele workshops, futsal (soccer) ministry, bible studies for kids, music ministry, ladies craft, assisted in Pele Island School and so much more as we spent our time investing into the lives of those around us. We had the privilege to see God at work, He changed lives as we partnered in the Gospel together, He offered hope as new inspiration was given. We saw God isnspire young ones to use their gifts and talents to bring about hope and purpose for their futures. Small business opportunities were offered to many who are unable to attend school or work with the making and selling of hand crafted ukuleles. New truths about who God is ignighted the childrens hearts, while God inspired protential new leaders to grasp His mission and purpose for life.

I can only encourage those who are keen to experience Mission, to let nothing hold you back, because it's  as you step out in faith you will experience how God will use you and it will grow you and bless you for your good and His glory!

Much love, appreciation for your support and prayers.

Kylie O'Donnell

Integration Aide