AFTER THE FLOODS – EQUIPPING YOUTH LEADERS IN CARE FOR CREATION
The Anglican Diocese of Mzimvubu had their one-day training for Youth and Sunday School leaders on Friday the 9th of August at the Diocesan Centre in Kokstad. The day started off with a reflection on the current state of affairs. We looked at the impact of climate change and reflected on the economic impact on young people. Young people, as per Africa tradition will have to provide for their families and as less crops are grown in rural areas, young urban people will take the strain of sending more cash home.
We also looked at the theology of Caring for Creation. God said that all He made is good, but now we see destruction. We also looked at the recent floods experienced in the Archdeaconries of Mbizana and Mt Frere and how the people have been left to now rebuild their homes , those in agriculture lost their vegetables and livestock .
The workshop led by Bino Makalanyane and Yolanda Mcaula equipped the youth leaders to use the new youth manual – Care for Creation. Time was spent in building compassion on God’s Creation, as we believe without compassion the leaders won’t prioritize the manuals, during this time we looked at the spiritual connection and then moved on to how kids best learn. The leaders then became kids where we divided into groups and did different sessions using the manual. This day was full of action, laughter and joy. When all was done, one of the youth leaders said it’s amazing how the manual is structured and believes that it will help them have more impactful youth ministries at their Parish.