First and foremost, I want to say thank you for being an amazing partner! As we start this new year, I want you to know we are truly believing for the absolute best for you in 2020. As we march forward in 2020 to achieve what the Lord has laid on our hearts, we are doing it together with you — and together, we are igniting hearts with the message of Hope and a brighter future. What a privilege to serve God with you!
Hands of Hope Faith Academy
Teachers and kids have been kept busy with a number of enjoyable activities, including camps, competitions, and let’s add exams. As a school, we continue our pursuit in creating a safe and effective environment for learning; an environment where every student can achieve their maximum potential. The continued high rankings in local competitions against both public and private schools show we are making progress. Preparations are well underway for our next big event, Moving Up (Kinder) and Graduation (Grade 6) ceremonies on the 4th of April. We love celebrating the students’ achievements but these ceremonies always have a tinge of sadness as we say goodbye to our Grade 6 students.
Rice Fields
The rice fields have performed well this year and we will easily double the harvest from previous years. This enables us to, not only supply the school with rice for the 2020-21SY but also sell a good portion to help fund different school projects. The fields are now being prepared for planting vegetables. A big thank you to Russell who has put in a large number of hours to make it happen.
Churches and Small Groups
Pastor Rod is currently visiting from NZ. Always wonderful to have his input into the churches as well as the school. Marivic continues to do well as she oversees the leaders and small groups. Testimonies from the small groups of people being healed, family relationships restored and people getting better-paying jobs, are in abundance. The Worship team and youth leaders continue to excel in their roles.
Focus Project
Part of providing our students with the best possible education is preparing them for the world they will enter after they leave HOHFA. This means having the technology that exists today readily available in the classroom. By doing so, the students will be able to comfortably incorporate it into their lives. This month our focus is on purchasing 7 TVs to use as monitors for each of our classrooms. Currently, the PTA (Parent Teachers Association) is raising money for one to be placed in the library. Once the tvs are installed they will be connected to a laptop which will be utilised by both the teacher and students. The cost per tv is $NZ350-400. For 7 TVs we will need to raise between $NZ2245-2800 If you would like to donate please click here
Returning to NZ
In June we will be relocating back to New Zealand as Joseph is part of the second-semester intake at Auckland University. It’s a transition for which we have been preparing for the last 18-24 months. Making those hard decisions and putting the right people into key positions has all been made with this transition in mind. Yes, we are feeling slightly apprehensive but, there is also a high degree of excitement. We will continue to oversee the ministry and intend on returning 2-3 times each year. But the day-to-day running of the ministry will be done by a team of local people.
Love and Blessings
Duane, Jenny & Joe
