For the first time in the 77-year history of FEBA/FEBC, its international conference was held on African soil, in Cape Town. FEBA Radio SA’s national director, Dr Jurie Vermeulen, and his team were the hosts, and we praise God that the successful event will be remembered for a long time. Even the notoriously fickle Cape Town weather decided to entertain our international guests with lovely sunshine days!
Leaders from around the world gathered to discuss the progress made in developing the four critical priorities selected to face the future with confidence. These priorities concern things like innovation, good management and governance, as well as leadership development. Our leaders recognise the need to equip and prepare new leaders for the future – men and women who will be able to bear the responsibility and follow God’s lead, no matter the cost. After all, billions of people are still desperate to hear and understand the good news of Christ. A special time for prayer was set aside for you and other partners around the world who have decided to take hands with FEBA and FEBC to grow this ministry and proclaim the gospel of Christ.
It wasn’t all business, though; Dr Jurie Vermeulen included a well-planned sightseeing itinerary, which allowed the diverse group of leaders to experience South African culture at its finest.
The leaders in attendance testify to the friendly welcome they received in SA, as well as the family-like atmosphere that surrounded them throughout the event. Even though there were language barriers, the obstacle was easily overcome.
“…. Eduard from Ukraine and Oleg from Russia were like close brothers…”
Hearts were warmed and filled with hope for peace when Eduard (from Ukraine) and Oleg (from Russia) displayed brotherly love towards each other. Though the two countries are at war, their people are not. This brotherly love extended to the other leaders in attendance from all over the world: Kyrgyzstan, Mongolia, Australia, Philippines, Canada, America, Pakistan, India, Kazakhstan, New Zealand, England, South Africa, Chad, Mozambique and Malawi, to name a few.
The last day of the conference came too quickly. Some attendees had to leave and return to their home countries immediately, while others were able to stay a bit longer and explore more of the beautiful Cape Peninsula. Some of the group that extended their stay attended and ministered at a worship service at Church on the Rise (AGS) Bloubergstrand on Sunday morning, led by Dr Jurie Vermeulen. The congregation was both amazed and filled with joy upon hearing the testimonies from the FEBC leadership and the work they do to expand God’s kingdom in their respective countries.
The whole of the FEBA and FEBC family is forever grateful for all your support!
