Download the PDF version below (e-mail and printer-friendly):

AFM Newsflash Friday_24 Nov_2023

RESOURCES

AFM of SA Calendar 2024 – Updated
(Last Update: NCM GBM – 7 Sept):
https://afm-ags.org/afm-calendar-2024/

R1 per AFM Member Campaign:
https://youtu.be/iu4qoJnjz0w

Dear Colleague,

Today marks the start of our AFM Welfare Weekend. We have shared more about this nationwide celebration in our previous Newsflash (dated Friday, 10 November 2023) – and we include the information again here for easy reference. I would like to thank our Assemblies and members in advance for the activities that are planned for this weekend.

Apart from taking up a special Sunday Offering, I also would like to raise more awareness about the R1 per Member Campaign. This is an AFM Welfare fundraising initiative that calls on all our members to consider making a financial contribution to the work done through the Welfare Department of our church. I share more about this initiative in a video message – and request you, as Pastor of your Assembly, to humbly share this request with your members.

R1 per Member Campaign – Video Message (Dr Henri Weideman):

AFM WELFARE WEEKEND: 24-26 NOVEMBER 2023

This year’s theme is:

“Church in Community and Community in Church!”

The AFM Welfare Weekend presents AFM Assemblies with a unique opportunity to shed light on the importance of “Community Involvement” as one of the drivers of the AFM’s plan to be missional. We are not saying that reaching out to our communities should only take place over this specific weekend. But we are saying that it is an opportunity to create a sole focus on this important driver of missionality. Reaching out to our communities with the love of God is at the heart of being missional.

AFM Welfare Weekend – Video message from Pastor Bongiwe Naile :

This year AFM Assemblies are called to the following 4 actions:

• • Bring them in! – invite and serve your community within the walls of the church.
  • Go out! – reach out and serve your community outside the walls of the church.
  • On Sunday, worship and preach a welfare-oriented message – our suggested spiritual theme for Sunday is: “Connecting our Faith to our Actions.”
  • Take up a Sunday offering for AFM Welfare.

We humbly request that an offering be taken up for AFM Welfare and deposited in the following account:

The Executive Welfare Council of the AFM of SA
ABSA (Centurion)
Branch Code # 632005
Account # 0105 5290 764
Type: Cheque

Kindly use your Assembly’s name as a reference – AFM Welfare would like the opportunity to thank you and your Assembly for your support and contribution. We would like to invite AFM Assemblies to send us photos and video clips of their Welfare Weekends so that they can be shared on AFM Welfare’s social media platforms. With this content, we are hoping to showcase and inspire other AFM Assemblies to do the same: info@afmwelfare.org.za.

We are a church with a heart for God, people, and the communities we live in. It strongly reminds us of our AFM Vision statement: “We see a church accessible to all people, celebrating our unity and God-given diversity, empowering our members for caring and changing communities to the glory of God.”

Friendly Regards
Henri Weideman

Laai die PDF weergawe hier af (om maklik uit te druk of per e-pos aan te stuur):

AGS Nuusflits Vrydag_24 Nov_2023

HULPBRONNE

AGS van SA Kalender 2024 – Opgedateer
(Nuwe Opdatering: NCM GBM – 7 September):
https://afm-ags.org/afm-calendar-2024/

R1 per AGS-Lidmaat Veldtog:
https://youtu.be/iu4qoJnjz0w

Liewe Kollega,

Vandag begin die AGS Welsyn Naweek. Ons het meer oor hierdie landwye aksie gedeel in ons vorige Nuusflits (op Vrydag, 10 November 2023) – en ons sluit die inligting weer in hierdie Nuusflits in. Ek wil graag ons Gemeentes en lidmate by voorbaat bedank vir die aktiwiteite wat vir hierdie naweek beplan en uitgevoer gaan word.

Behalwe vir die versoek dat ons hierdie Sondag ‘n spesiale offerande opneem vir die AGS Welsyn, wil ek ook meer bewusmaking skep oor die R1 per AGS-lidmaat veldtog. Hierdie is ‘n AGS Welsyn fondsinsameling inisiatief wat ‘n beroep doen op al ons lidmate om ‘n finansiële bydrae te oorweeg – om die werk wat deur hierdie Departement van ons kerk gedoen word, te ondersteun. Ek deel meer oor hierdie inisiatief in ‘n video boodskap – en versoek jou as Pastoor van jou Gemeente, om hierdie versoek ook nederig met jou lidmate te deel.

R1 per AGS Lidmaat Veldtog – Video Boodskap (Dr Henri Weideman):

AGS WELSYN NAWEEK : 24-26 NOVEMBER 2023

Vanjaar se tema is:
“Church in Community and Community in Church!”

Die AGS Welsyn Naweek is ‘n unieke geleentheid vir AGS Gemeentes om lig te werp op die belangrikheid van “Gemeenskapsbetrokkenheid” as een van die dryfvere van die AGS se missionêre plan. Ons sê nie dat uitreike na ons gemeenskappe eers of slegs oor hierdie spesifieke naweek moet plaasvind nie – maar ons sê dat dit ‘n geleentheid is om ‘n uitsluitlike fokus op hierdie belangrike drywer van missionaliteit te skep. Om uit te reik na ons gemeenskappe met die liefde van God is die kern van missionaliteit.

AGS Welsyn Naweek – ‘n Video Boodskap (Past. Bongiwe Naile) :

Vanjaar daag ons AGS Gemeentes uit om die volgende 4 aksies uit te voer:

• • Bring hulle in! Nooi en dien jou gemeenskap binne die mure van die kerk.
  • Gaan uit! Reik uit en dien jou gemeenskap buite die mure van die kerk.
  • Aanbid en verkondig Sondag ’n welsynsgerigte boodskap – ons voorgestelde geestelike tema vir Sondag is: “Verbind ons geloof met ons aksies.”
  • Neem ‘n Sondag-offerande vir die AGS Welsyn op.

Ons versoek nederig dat ‘n offerande vir AGS Welsyn opgeneem word en in die volgende rekening gedeponeer word:

The Executive Welfare Council of the AFM of SA
ABSA (Centurion)
Takkode # 632005
Rekening # 0105 5290 764
Tipe: Cheque

Gebruik asseblief jou AGS Gemeente se naam as verwysing – die AGS Welsyn wil graag die geleentheid hê om jou Gemeente te bedank vir die ondersteuning en bydrae. Ons moedig jou graag aan om vir ons fotos en videogrepe van jou Welsyn Naweek te stuur sodat ons dit kan deel op die AGS Welsyn se sosiale media platforms. Met hierdie inhoud hoop ons om verdere bewusmaking te skep van die AGS Welsyn Naweek en ander AGS Gemeentes te inspireer om dieselfde te doen: info@afmwelfare.org.za.

Ons is ‘n kerk met ‘n hart vir God, mense en die gemeenskappe waarin ons leef. Dit herinner ons sterk aan ons AGS-visiestelling: “We see a church accessible to all people, celebrating our unity and God-given diversity, empowering our members for caring and changing communities to the glory of God.”

Vriendelike Groete,
Henri Weideman

Download the PDF version here (e-mail and printer-friendly):

AFM Newsflash_Friday_10 NOV_2023

RESOURCES

AFM of SA Calendar 2024 –
Updated (Last Update: NCM GBM – 7 Sept):
https://afm-ags.org/afm-calendar-2024/ 

Circular – AFM Welfare Weekend:
https://afm-ags.org/category/media/

Dear Colleague,

We are directing your attention to the upcoming AFM Welfare Weekend that is celebrated in local AFM Assemblies. Further, as received from the office of the General Secretary, Past. Selby Khumalo, we also share a summary of the AFM National Office Staff and their administrative roles. We trust that this information will be helpful.

1. AFM WELFARE WEEKEND: 24-26 NOVEMBER 2023

Planning is underway for the 2023 AFM Welfare Weekend, which is scheduled for Friday, 24 November to Sunday, 26 November. This year’s theme is:

“Church in Community and Community in Church!”

The AFM Welfare Weekend presents AFM Assemblies with a unique opportunity to shed light on the importance of “Community Involvement” as one of the drivers of the AFM’s plan to be missional. We are not saying that reaching out to our communities should only take place over this specific weekend. But we are saying that it is an opportunity to create a sole focus on this important driver of missionality. Reaching out to our communities with the love of God is at the heart of being missional.

This year we are calling AFM Assemblies to the following 4 actions:

• • Bring them in! – invite and serve your community within the walls of the church.
  • Go out! – reach out and serve your community outside the walls of the church.
  • On Sunday, worship and preach a welfare-oriented message – our suggested spiritual theme for Sunday is: “Connecting our Faith to our Actions.”
  • Take up a Sunday offering for AFM Welfare.

We humbly request that an offering be taken up for AFM Welfare and deposited in the following account:

The Executive Welfare Council of the AFM of SA
ABSA (Centurion)
Branch Code # 632005
Account # 0105 5290 764
Type: Cheque

Kindly use your Assembly’s name as a reference – AFM Welfare would like the opportunity to thank you and your Assembly for your support and contribution. We would like to invite AFM Assemblies to send us photos and video clips of their Welfare Weekends so that they can be shared on AFM Welfare’s social media platforms. With this content, we are hoping to showcase and inspire other AFM Assemblies to do the same: info@afmwelfare.org.za.

We are a church with a heart for God, people, and the communities we live in. It strongly reminds us of our AFM Vision statement: “We see a church accessible to all people, celebrating our unity and God-given diversity, empowering our members for caring and changing communities to the glory of God.”

2. AFM NATIONAL OFFICE: ADMINISTRATIVE STAFF

The AFM of SA National Office (based in Gauteng) is the proud home of a diverse and dynamic team of staff members under the guidance and leadership of the National Office Bearers. We appreciate the work they do daily to support our Regions, Networks and Departments. Staff members take responsibility for specific administrative processes – that are indicated in the images.

This information is also available on our website on the “Contact Us”-page:

Friendly Regards
Henri Weideman

Laai die PDF weergawe hier af (om maklik te e-pos of uit te druk):

AGS Nuusflits_Vrydag_10 NOV_2023

HULPBRONNE

AGS van SA Kalender 2024 – Opgedateer
(Nuwe Opdatering: NCM GBM – 7 September):
https://afm-ags.org/afm-calendar-2024/

Omsendbrief: AGS Welsyn Naweek
https://afm-ags.org/category/media/

Liewe Kollega,

Ons rig graag jou aandag op die komende AGS Welsyn Naweek wat in plaaslike AGS Gemeentes gevier word. Verder deel ons ook ‘n opsomming van die AGS Nasionale Kantoorpersoneel en hul administratiewe rolle – soos ontvang van die kantoor van die Hoofsekretaris, Past. Selby Khumalo. Ek vertrou dat hierdie inligting nuttig sal wees.

1. AGS WELSYN NAWEEK : 24-26 NOVEMBER 2023

Beplanning is aan die gang vir die 2023 AGS Welsyn Naweek wat geskeduleer is vir Vrydag, 24 November tot Sondag, 26 November. Vanjaar se tema is:

“Church in Community and Community in Church!”

Die AGS Welsyn Naweek is ‘n unieke geleentheid vir AGS Gemeentes om lig te werp op die belangrikheid van “Gemeenskapsbetrokkenheid” as een van die dryfvere van die AGS se missionêre plan. Ons sê nie dat uitreike na ons gemeenskappe eers of slegs oor hierdie spesifieke naweek moet plaasvind nie – maar ons sê dat dit ‘n geleentheid is om ‘n uitsluitlike fokus op hierdie belangrike drywer van missionaliteit te skep. Om uit te reik na ons gemeenskappe met die liefde van God is die kern van missionaliteit.

Vanjaar daag ons AGS Gemeentes uit om die volgende 4 aksies uit te voer:

• • Bring hulle in! Nooi en dien jou gemeenskap binne die mure van die kerk.
  • Gaan uit! Reik uit en dien jou gemeenskap buite die mure van die kerk.
  • Aanbid en verkondig Sondag ’n welsynsgerigte boodskap – ons voorgestelde geestelike tema vir Sondag is: “Verbind ons geloof met ons aksies.”
  • Neem ‘n Sondag-offerande vir die AGS Welsyn op.

Ons versoek nederig dat ‘n offerande vir AGS Welsyn opgeneem word en in die volgende rekening gedeponeer word:

The Executive Welfare Council of the AFM of SA
ABSA (Centurion)
Takkode # 632005
Rekening # 0105 5290 764
Tipe: Cheque

Gebruik asseblief jou AGS Gemeente se naam as verwysing – die AGS Welsyn wil graag die geleentheid hê om jou Gemeente te bedank vir die ondersteuning en bydrae. Ons moedig jou graag aan om vir ons fotos en videogrepe van jou Welsyn Naweek te stuur sodat ons dit kan deel op die AGS Welsyn se sosiale media platforms. Met hierdie inhoud hoop ons om verdere bewusmaking te skep van die AGS Welsyn Naweek en ander AGS Gemeentes te inspireer om dieselfde te doen: info@afmwelfare.org.za.

Ons is ‘n kerk met ‘n hart vir God, mense en die gemeenskappe waarin ons leef. Dit herinner ons sterk aan ons AGS-visiestelling: “We see a church accessible to all people, celebrating our unity and God-given diversity, empowering our members for caring and changing communities to the glory of God.”

2. AGS NASIONALE KANTOOR: ADMINISTRATIEWE PERSONEEL

Die AGS Nasionale Kantoor (in Gauteng) is die trotse tuiste van ‘n diverse en dinamiese span personeellede onder leiding en leierskap van die Nasionale Ampsdraers. Ons waardeer die werk wat hulle daagliks doen om ons streke, netwerke en departemente te ondersteun. Personeellede neem verantwoordelikheid vir spesifieke administratiewe prosesse – wat hieronder aangedui word.

Hierdie inligting is ook beskikbaar op ons webwerf vanaf die “Contact Us”-bladsy:

Vriendelike Groete!
Henri Weideman

Download the PDF version below (e-mail & printer-friendly):

AFM Newsflash_Friday_27 Oct_2023

RESOURCES

Pastors Appreciation & Wellness Month –
Circular (20 September 2023):
https://afm-ags.org/pastors-appreciation-wellness-month-october-2023/

AFM of SA Calendar 2024 –
Updated (Last Update: NCM GBM – 7 Sept):
https://afm-ags.org/afm-calendar-2024/

Pastoral Letter of the 3rd Quarter
https://afm-ags.org/category/publications/pastoral-letters/

Dear Colleague,

1. THE MIDDLE EAST CONFLICT

The conflict in the Middle East is a very complex, sensitive, and emotional issue and is also very divisive in the church context. The National Office Bearers (NOB) of The Apostolic Faith Mission of South Africa (AFM) are acutely aware of the complexities of the historical and current situation in the Middle East. We lament the suffering and pain of innocent people on all sides of the conflict and urge all our members to pray for an amicable solution.

We also refer our members to a document of the AFM Committee on Dogmatic, Ethics and Liturgy (DEL) regarding the conflict in the Middle East which was compiled some time ago. It is available on the AFM website under “Pronouncements”: https://afm-ags.org/about-us/pronouncements/. The last few paragraphs of this comprehensive document, sum up where I believe we should stand regarding this matter.

We, The AFM of SA pray for the peace of Jerusalem as demanded by Scripture, without discriminating against any of the inhabitants of the land. We refuse to be protagonists or antagonists in the conflict but rather stand where Christ stands: On the side of God’s love for all of humanity. In the context of the Israeli-Palestine conflict, this includes the right to human dignity for both groups. We stand where Christ stands regarding efforts to find a solution as peacemakers in a volatile and life-threatening situation that has continued for too long.

We, The AFM of SA call on the South African government and the international community to apply the same rules of engagement in peace efforts with the people of Israel and Palestine as they apply to other recent conflicts and wars like the one between Russia and Ukraine.

The AFM of SA will continue to pray for peace in the land of our religious origins and support all efforts that work towards securing prosperity for people on both sides of the divide.

2. SAFETY AT CHURCH

There is a noticeable increase in incidents of theft at churches. Sometimes churches are soft targets for break-ins, even in broad daylight, and robberies while services are being conducted, seem to be spreading. Whilst we should not be living in fear, or expecting the worst, we should also be prepared and do what we can to protect our property and to ensure the safety of members and churchgoers during services. Here are some guidelines to help make churches safer:

• Controlled Access: Limit the number of entry points and implement access control systems. During church services and activities, entrance gates to the premises can be closed and monitored at certain times. If your church does not have a fence or entrance gate/s, consider installing such.
• Trained Ushers: Assign volunteer ushers and make them aware of what they need to be alert of whilst greeting and monitoring people entering the church. This will make it easier to spot unusual behaviour. Provide training to all staff and volunteers on security procedures and on recognizing suspicious activity.
• Emergency Response Plan: Develop a comprehensive emergency response plan that includes procedures for various scenarios and threats.
• Security Team: Establish a trained security team to monitor entrances and patrol the premises during services. Ask for input and advice from security experts in your assembly and community.
• Secure Offerings: Do not follow the same pattern of taking up and counting offerings every time. Secure tithes and offerings to prevent theft.
• Neighbourhood Watch: Engage with the local community and consider joining or starting a neighbourhood watch program in your area.
• Lighting: Where possible, ensure well-lit parking lots and walkways to reduce hiding spots for potential criminals.
• Evacuation Drills: Practice evacuation drills with the congregation to prepare for emergency situations.
• Surveillance Cameras: If possible, install security cameras in key areas to deter criminals and monitor the premises.
• Communication: Use two-way radios and/or cell phones and communication apps to enable quick communication between security personnel.
• Medical Response: Have medical supplies and medical response contact numbers available for medical emergencies.
• Cybersecurity: Protect the church databases and financial records from cyber threats.
• Background Checks: Screen volunteers and employees, especially those working with children, to identify any potential risks.
• Mental Health Support: Promote a supportive environment and offer resources for members dealing with mental health issues.

   

  It is particularly important that safety measures should be balanced with the welcoming, warm, and open nature of being an AFM church. Open communication with the congregation about safety measures and protocols can help create a sense of security, without causing unnecessary anxiety. We must also continue to pray regularly for the safety and protection of all our members and church property.

  Friendly Regards
  Henri Weideman

• 

Laai die PDF weergawe hier af (om maklik uit te druk of per e-pos aan te stuur):

AGS Nuusflits_Vrydag_27 Okt_2023

HULPBRONNE

Pastorale Waardering & Welstand maand –
Omsendbrief (20 September 2023):
https://afm-ags.org/pastors-appreciation-wellness-month-october-2023/

AGS van SA Kalender 2024 –
Opgedateer (Nuwe Opdatering: NCM GBM – 7 September):
https://afm-ags.org/afm-calendar-2024/

Pastorale Brief: 3de Kwartaal 2023
https://afm-ags.org/pastorale-brief-3de-kwartaal-2023/

Liewe Kollega,

1. DIE MIDDE-OOSTE KONFLIK

Die konflik in die Midde-Ooste is ‘n baie komplekse, sensitiewe en emosionele saak en is ook baie verdelend in die kerklike konteks. Die Nasionale Ampsdraers (NOB) van die Apostoliese Geloofsending van Suid-Afrika (AGS) is deeglik bewus van die kompleksiteite van die historiese en huidige situasie in die Midde-Ooste. Ons betreur die lyding en pyn van onskuldige mense aan alle kante van die konflik en moedig al ons lidmate aan om te bid vir ‘n vriendskaplike oplossing.

Ons verwys ook ons lidmate na ‘n dokument van die AGS Komitee oor Dogmatiese, Etiek en Liturgie (DEL) rakende die konflik in die Midde-Ooste wat ‘n tyd gelede saamgestel is. Dit is beskikbaar op die AGS webwerf onder “Pronouncements”: https://afm-ags.org/about-us/pronouncements/. Die laaste paar paragrawe van hierdie omvattende dokument, som op waar ek glo ons behoort te staan ten opsigte van hierdie saak.

Ons, die AGS van SA, bid vir die vrede van Jerusalem soos deur die Skrif vereis, sonder om teen enige van die inwoners van die land te diskrimineer.  Ons weier om protagoniste of antagoniste in die konflik te wees, maar staan eerder waar Christus staan: Aan die kant van God se liefde vir die hele mensdom. In die konteks van die Israelies-Palestina-konflik sluit dit die reg op menswaardigheid vir beide groepe in. Ons staan waar Christus staan met betrekking tot pogings om as vredemakers ‘n oplossing te vind in ‘n wisselvallige en lewensbedreigende situasie wat alreeds te lank aanhou.

Ons, die AGS van SA, doen ‘n beroep op die Suid-Afrikaanse regering en die internasionale gemeenskap om dieselfde reëls van betrokkenheid by vredespogings met die mense van Israel en Palestina toe te pas as wat van toepassing is op ander onlangse konflikte en oorloë soos die een tussen Rusland en Oekraïne.

Die AGS van SA sal voortgaan om te bid vir vrede in die land van ons godsdienstige oorsprong en alle pogings ondersteun wat werk om voorspoed vir mense aan beide kante van die konflik te verseker.

2. VEILIGHEID BY DIE KERK

Daar is skynbaar ‘n merkbare toename in voorvalle van diefstal by kerke. Soms is kerke sagte teikens vir inbrake, selfs helder oordag, en dit lyk asof rooftogte terwyl dienste gehou word ook toeneem.  Alhoewel ons nie in vrees moet leef of altyd die ergste moet verwag nie, moet ons ook voorbereid wees en doen wat ons kan om ons eiendom te beskerm en om die veiligheid van lidmate en kerkgangers tydens dienste te verseker. Hier is ‘n paar idees om kerke veiliger te maak:

• Beheerde Toegang: Beperk die aantal toegang punte en implementeer toegangsbeheertelsels. Tydens eredienste en aktiwiteite kan toegangshekke na die perseel op sekere tye gesluit en gemonitor word. As jou kerk nie ‘n heining of ingangshek/ke het nie, oorweeg om dit te installeer.
• Opgeleide Deurwagters: Maak gebruik van spesifiek aangewysde deurwagters/inleiers en plekaanwysers en maak hulle bewus van wat nodig is om oplettend te wees terwyl hulle mense wat die kerk binnekom, groet en monitor. Dit sal dit makliker maak om ongewone gedrag of verdagte individue raak te sien. Verskaf opleiding aan alle personeel en vrywilligers oor sekuriteit prosedures en oor die erkenning van verdagte aktiwiteite.
• Noodreaksie Plan: Ontwikkel ‘n omvattende noodreaksie plan wat prosedures vir verskillende scenario’s en bedreigings insluit.
• Sekuriteit Span: Stig ‘n opgeleide sekuriteit span om ingange te monitor en die perseel tydens dienste te patrolleer. Vra vir insette en advies van sekuriteit kundiges in jou gemeente en gemeenskap.
• Veiligheid t.o.v. Offerande: Moenie elke keer dieselfde patroon volg om offerande op te neem en te tel nie. Verseker die veilige hantering van tiendes en offergawes om diefstal te voorkom.
• Buurtwag: Raak betrokke by die plaaslike gemeenskap en oorweeg dit om by ‘n buurtwag program in jou omgewing aan te sluit of om een te begin.
• Beligting: Waar moontlik, verseker goed beligte parkeerterreine en wandelpaaie om wegkruipplekke vir potensiële misdadigers te verminder.
• Ontruimings Oefeninge: Oefen ontruimings oefeninge saam met die gemeente om voor te berei vir moontlike noodsituasies.
• Sekuriteit Kameras: Indien moontlik, installeer sekuriteit kameras in sleutel areas om misdadigers af te skrik en die perseel te monitor.
• Kommunikasie: Gebruik tweerigtingradio’s en/of selfone en kommunikasie toepassings (App’s) om vinnige kommunikasie tussen sekuriteitspersoneel moontlik te maak.
• Mediese Reaksie: Hou mediese voorrade en kontaknommers vir mediese reaksie spanne beskikbaar vir mediese noodgevalle.
• Kuber Veiligheid: Beskerm die kerk se databasisse en finansiële rekords teen kuber bedreigings.
• Agtergrond Kontroles: Verkry keuring en/of klarings t.o.v. vrywilligers en werknemers, veral diegene wat met kinders werk, om moontlike risiko’s te identifiseer.
• Geestesgesondheid Ondersteuning: Bevorder ‘n ondersteunende omgewing en bied hulpbronne aan vir lidmate wat geestes gesondheidskwessies hanteer.

  
  Dit is baie belangrik dat veiligheidsmaatreëls gebalanseer moet word met die verwelkomende, warm en “oop” aard van ‘n AGS gemeente. Oop kommunikasie met die gemeente oor veiligheidsmaatreëls en -protokolle kan help om ‘n gevoel van veiligheid te skep, sonder om onnodige angs te veroorsaak. Ons moet ook aanhou om gereeld te bid vir die veiligheid en beskerming van al ons lidmate en kerkeiendom.
  

  Vriendelike Groete
  Henri Weideman

• 

Download the PDF-version below:

AFM Newsflash_Friday 13 October_2023

RESOURCES

Pastors Appreciation & Wellness Month – Circular (20 September 2023): https://afm-ags.org/pastors-appreciation-wellness-month-october-2023/

AFM of SA Calendar 2024 – Updated (As Received from the Office of the GS):
https://afm-ags.org/afm-calendar-2024/

Pastoral Letter of the 3rd Quarter – New!
https://afm-ags.org/category/publications/pastoral-letters/

Dear Colleague,

The month of October marks a focus on pastors’ appreciation and wellness. A Circular was sent to all AFM Assemblies on the 20th of September from the desk of the General Secretary. I asked Past. Selby Khumalo to share more about this important month in our church (this message will also be shared on the AFM’s social media platforms).

PASTORS APPRECIATION & WELLNESS MONTH
Past. Selby Khumalo – General Secretary of the AFM of SA

As Brothers and Sisters in the Lord Jesus Christ, we must remember that Leaders are also human beings just as we are: they hurt, bleed, get upset, frustrated, lonely, tired, and have heartaches; those things that every other person experiences. The only difference is that God has given them much more responsibility (caring for the flock) than others. The Acts of the Apostles tell us in Chapter 20:28 “Take heed therefore unto yourselves, and feed the flock, over the which the Holy Ghost hath made your overseers (bishops, pastor, teachers), to feed the church of God, which He (Jesus) hath purchased with His only Blood”.

Let’s look at what the scripture says about how we should honour, respect and treat our “Leaders”:

“The one who receives a prophet because he is a prophet will receive a prophet’s reward, and the one who receives a righteous person because he is a righteous person will receive a righteous person’s reward.” (Matthew 10: 41, ESV)

“Indeed, if anyone gives you even a cup of water because you bear the name of Christ, truly I tell you, he will never lose his reward.” (Mark 9: 41, BSB). Therefore, blessing or honouring a man or woman of the Lord showers down rich blessings upon our heads. Always remember to respect the position that the Lord has established.

“Obey your leaders and submit to them, for they are keeping watch over your souls, as those who will have to give an account. Let them do this with joy and not with groaning, for that would be of no advantage to you.” (Hebrews 13:17, ESV)

The Old Testament says in Jeremiah 23:4: “I will set up shepherds over them who will feed them, and they shall fear no more, nor be dismayed, nor shall they be lacking,” says the LORD.” (NKJV)

As we honour and appreciate our Pastors and their families, let the assembly be informed and made aware of some essential elements of pastoral wellness. I will highlight six areas of wellness:

Spiritual Wellness:  A pastor spending time reflecting and exploring his/her spiritual life.

Emotional Wellness: A pastor maintaining a healthy emotional life.

Intellectual Wellness: A pastor staying engaged in learning new things, doing creative activities and enhancing intellectual interest.

Physical Wellness: A pastor following a healthy lifestyle that involves moving the body (exercise), eating well-balanced food, sleeping well and health screenings.

Social Wellness: A pastor having a strong social network – offering support and guidance.

Financial Wellness: A pastor taking steps to live within his/her means and plan for future financial health.

I want to encourage you to also refer to two valuable articles about pastoral wellness in the AFM as was written and contributed by the late Dr Vincent Atterbury – a passionate promoter of pastoral wellness. I trust that the suggestions and insights offered in these articles will again be a blessing to you and your ministry:

The Biblical Mandate for the Well-being of Pastors and Leaders in the Church
https://afm-ags.org/pastoral-letter-3rd-quarter/
(Archive: Pastoral Letter of the 3rd Quarter 2018)

Pastoral Wellness: The Whole Picture
https://afm-ags.org/pastoral-letter-4th-quarter/
(Archive: Pastoral Letter of the 4th Quarter 2018)

Friendly Regards
Henri Weideman

Laai die PDF weergawe hieronder af:

AGS Nuusflits_Vrydag 13 Oktober_2023

HULPBRONNE

Pastorale Waardering & Welstand maand – Omsendbrief (20 September 2023):
https://afm-ags.org/pastors-appreciation-wellness-month-october-2023/

AGS van SA Kalender 2024 – Opgedateer (Soos ontvang vanaf die kantoor van die Hoofsekretaris):
https://afm-ags.org/afm-calendar-2024/

Pastorale Brief: 3de Kwartaal 2023 – Nuut!
https://afm-ags.org/pastorale-brief-3de-kwartaal-2023/

Liewe Kollega,

Oktober-maand fokus ons op die waardering en welstand van ons pastore. ‘n Omsendbrief is op die 20ste September vanuit die kantoor van die Algemene Sekretaris aan alle AGS Gemeentes gestuur. Ek het Pastoor Selby Khumalo gevra om meer oor hierdie belangrike maand in ons kerk te deel (hierdie boodskap sal ook op die AGS se sosiale media platforms gedeel word).

PASTORALE WAARDERING- EN WELSTAND MAAND
Past. Selby Khumalo (Hoofsekretaris van die AGS van SA)

As Broers en Susters in die Here Jesus Christus, moet ons onthou dat Leiers ook mense is net soos ons: hulle kry ook seer, raak ontsteld, gefrustreerd, eensaam, moeg en beleef ook hartseer; daardie dinge wat elke ander persoon ervaar. Die enigste verskil is dat God aan hulle baie meer verantwoordelikheid (omgee vir die kudde) gegee het as ander. In Handelinge 20:28 (AFR53) staan daar: “Gee dan ag op julleself en op die hele kudde waaroor die Heilige Gees julle as opsieners aangestel het om as herders die gemeente van God te versorg, wat Hy deur sy eie bloed verkry het.”

Kom ons kyk na wat die Skrif sê oor hoe ons ons “Leiers” moet eer, respekteer en behandel:

“Wie ‘n profeet ontvang omdat hy ‘n profeet is, sal ‘n profeet se beloning ontvang; en wie ‘n goeie mens ontvang omdat hy goed is, sal ‘n goeie mens se beloning ontvang.” – Matteus 10: 41 (AFR83).

“Want elkeen wat vir julle in my Naam ‘n beker water gee om te drink, omdat julle aan Christus behoort, voorwaar Ek sê vir julle, hy sal sy loon sekerlik nie verloor nie.” – Markus 9: 41 (AFR53). As ons ‘n man of vrou van die Here eer stort die Here sy ryk seëninge op ons hoofde. Onthou om altyd die leiers wat verkies is tot ‘n posisie te respekteer.

“Julle voorgangers hou wag oor julle lewe en moet aan God rekenskap gee. Wees gehoorsaam en onderdanig aan hulle, want dan sal hulle hulle werk met vreugde kan doen en nie kla nie; anders het dit vir julle geen nut nie.” – Hebreërs 13:17 (AFR83).

In die Ou Testament in Jeremia 23:4 (AFR83) staan daar: “Dan sal Ek herders oor hulle aanstel, en dié sal hulle versorg, en hulle sal nie meer bang of verskrik wees nie en hulle sal nie meer wegraak nie, sê die Here.”

Terwyl ons ons pastore en hul gesinne eer en waardeer, laat die gemeente ingelig word en bewus gemaak word van ‘n paar noodsaaklike elemente van pastorale welstand. Ek lig ses pastorale areas van welstand uit:

Geestelike welstand: ‘n Pastoor wat tyd spandeer om oor sy/haar geestelike lewe te besin en te verken.

Emosionele welstand: ‘n Pastoor wat ‘n gesonde emosionele lewe handhaaf.

Intellektuele welstand: ‘n Pastoor wat besig bly om nuwe dinge te leer, kreatiewe aktiwiteite te doen en intellektuele belangstellings te versterk.

Fisiese welstand: ‘n Pastoor wat ‘n gesonde leefstyl volg wat insluit liggaamlike oefening, ‘n gesonde en gebalanseerde dieet, genoeg slaap en gereelde mediese ondersoeke.

Sosiale welstand: ‘n Pastoor wat ‘n sterk sosiale netwerk het – wat ondersteuning en leiding bied.

Finansiële welstand: ‘n Pastoor wat stappe neem om binne sy/haar vermoë te leef en te beplan vir toekomstige finansiële gesondheid.

Ek wil jou aanmoedig om ook te verwys na twee waardevolle artikels oor pastorale welstand in die AGS soos geskryf en bygedra deur wyle Dr Vincent Atterbury – ‘n passievolle promotor van pastorale welstand. Ek vertrou dat die voorstelle en insigte wat in hierdie artikels na verwys word, weer tot seën vir jou en jou bediening sal wees:

Die Bybelse Mandaat vir Die Welstand van Pastore en Leiers in Die Kerk
https://afm-ags.org/pastorale-brief-3de-kwartaal/
(Argief: Pastorale Brief van die 3de Kwartaal 2018)

Pastorale Welstand: Die Volle Prentjie
https://afm-ags.org/pastorale-brief-4de-kwartaal/ 
(Argief: Pastorale Brief van die 4de Kwartaal 2018)

Vriendelike Groete
Henri Weideman

AFM Newsflash_Friday_15 SEPT 2023

RESOURCES

Thank You! Conference Appreciation –
Pastor Selby Khumalo (General Secretary):
https://afm-ags.org/category/media/

Catch Up! Conference Live Streams:
https://www.youtube.com/@theapostolicfaithmissionof621/streams

Dear Colleague,

ABLAZE AFM NATIONAL CONFERENCE 2023: A REFLECTION

I am very thankful that our 2023 National Conference (7-9 September) was indeed not just another meeting, but a time of refreshment, fellowship and real upliftment. We have been reminded that wé are the light of the world. That this light should never be hidden, but must be like a lamp on a lamp stand, and a city on a hill – a light visible to everybody.

Our light must shine in such a way that people will see our good deeds and glorify the true God in heaven. Our light must só shine so that it will have a generational impact, passing on our faith and our DNA as Pentecostal believers to our young people and children. We, like many others, used to be in the darkness, but since we became the Lord’s people, we are people of the Light and must live purposefully like people who belong to the Light. Our light must never reflect the changing cultures and circumstances around us, instead, just like the moon, which has no light of itself but only reflects the sun, we must always reflect Jesus.

During the PCD sessions which were very well attended, two very relevant subjects were presented. One was on mental health and how we can proactively address it, and the other on a Pentecostal perspective on the phenomenon of “fake” prophets. These presentations can be downloaded from the conference website: http://www.events.afm-ags.org/. In the meanwhile, we have been receiving enquiries about the book “Lead with Intent” by Hermann du Plessis. This book can be ordered by sending an e-mail directly to hermann@ttli.co.za – he will then reply with an invoice and delivery details. If you order from Hermann the book is R200 (it is more expensive when you buy from the retailers).

I thank everybody who was part of the organization to make the conference possible, as well as all who were part of the daily program and every individual who made the effort to attend. Some people travelled far – and for more than one day – to be present. We experienced the diversity of our church in worship, in the program and in attendance. Many people testified about the spirit of unity and peace amongst all present.

Several people described the conference as “powerful and memorable”, “a supernatural encounter” and “full of the power of the Holy Spirit.” I especially noted the comment of someone who said: “Our identity has been reaffirmed.” My prayer is that we will not just move on to the next, or another conference and experience, but that we will take the time to reflect on what God through His Holy Spirit shared with us during this conference. May we then not be like the person who sees him/herself in a mirror, go away and forget but may we really do in practice what we have heard.

Friendly Regards
Henri Weideman

AGS Nuusflits_Vrydag_15 SEPT 2023

HULPBRONNE

Konferensie: ‘n Woord van Dank –
Pastoor Selby Khumalo (Hoofsekretaris):
https://afm-ags.org/category/media/

Vang Op! Konferensie Sessies:
https://www.youtube.com/@theapostolicfaithmissionof621/streams

Liewe Kollega,

ABLAZE AGS NASIONALE KONFERENSIE 2023: REFLEKSIE

Ek is baie dankbaar dat ons 2023 Nasionale Konferensie (7-9 September) inderdaad nie net nog ‘n byeenkoms was nie, maar ‘n tyd van verfrissing, onderlinge gemeenskap en werklike opheffing. Ons is daaraan herinner dat óns die lig van die wêreld is. Dat hierdie lig nooit weggesteek moet word nie, maar soos ‘n lamp op ‘n kandelaar moet wees, en ‘n stad op ‘n heuwel – ‘n lig wat vir almal sigbaar is.

Ons lig moet só skyn dat mense ons goeie dade sal sien en die ware God in die hemel sal verheerlik. Ons lig moet skyn sodat dit ‘n impak op die volgende generasies sal hê en ons geloof en DNS as Pinkstergelowiges aan ons jongmense en kinders oorgedra word. Ons was soos baie ander, vroeër in die duisternis, maar sedert ons die Here se volk geword het, is ons mense van die Lig en moet ons doelgerig lewe soos mense wat aan die Lig behoort. Ons lig mag nooit die veranderende kulture en omstandighede rondom ons weerkaats nie. Net soos die maan wat geen lig van homself het nie, maar net die son weerkaats – so moet ons Jesus altyd weerkaats.

Tydens die PCD-sessies – wat baie goed bygewoon is – is twee baie relevante onderwerpe aangebied. Die een was oor geestesgesondheid en hoe ons dit proaktief kan aanspreek, en die ander oor ‘n Pinksterperspektief op die verskynsel van “valse” profete. Hierdie aanbiedinge kan afgelaai word vanaf die konferensie webblad: http://www.events.afm-ags.org/. Intussen het ons ook navrae ontvang oor Hermann du Plessis se boek getiteld “Leading with Intent”. Indien jy hierdie boek wil bestel, stuur ‘n e-pos direk aan Hermann by hermann@ttli.co.za. Hy sal dan terug antwoord met besonderhede rondom betaling en aflewering. Indien die boek direk by Hermann gekoop word is dit R200 (dit is heelwat duurder by boekhandelaars).

Ek bedank almal wat deel was van die organisasie om die konferensie moontlik te maak, sowel as almal wat deel was van die daaglikse program en elke individu wat die moeite gedoen het om dit by te woon. Sommige mense het ver gereis – selfs vir meer as een dag – om teenwoordig te wees. Ons het die diversiteit van ons kerk ervaar in aanbidding, in die program en in die bywoning. Baie mense het getuig oor die gees van eenheid en vrede onder almal wat teenwoordig was.

Verskeie mense het die konferensie beskryf as “kragtig en onvergeetlik”, as “’n bonatuurlike ontmoeting” en “vol van die krag van die Heilige Gees”. Ek het veral kennis geneem van die opmerking van iemand wat gesê het: “Ons identiteit is herbevestig.” My gebed is dat ons nie net sal aanbeweeg na die volgende, of ‘n ander konferensie en ervaring nie, maar dat ons die tyd sal neem om na te dink oor wat God deur sy Heilige Gees tydens hierdie konferensie met ons gedeel het. Mag ons dan nie soos die persoon wees wat hom/haarself in ‘n spieël sien weggaan en vergeet nie, maar laat ons regtig in die praktyk dóen wat ons gehoor het.

Vriendelike Groete!
Henri Weideman