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SPECIAL NEWSFLASH!
BROADENING OF THE AFM’s ECUMENICAL INVOLVEMENT AND APPEAL FOR EMERGENCY RELIEF IN THE WAKE OF CYCLONE IDAI
Dear Colleague,
The National Office Bearers (NOB) of the AFM of SA wishes to bring the matters mentioned above to the attention of our members, pastors and ecumenical partners.
1. Broadening Of The AFM’s Ecumenical Involvement
One of the drivers of the AFM’s strategic plan, the One AFM Game Plan (http://afm-ags.org/leading-the-afm/one-afm-game-plan/), is Ecumenical Relations. The AFM acknowledges the body of Christ as churches and organisations who believe in the Trinity as well as believe that the Scriptures are inspired by the Holy Spirit, and co-operate with them where possible.
The AFM of SA is aligned in ecumenical relations with the following organisations: The Pentecostal World Fellowship (PWF), The Evangelical Alliance of South Africa (TEASA), Empower 21 and the South African Council of Churches (SACC).
It was felt that for the AFM to broaden its global impact, it should explore application for membership of the World Council of Churches (WCC). The Deputy President of the church, Dr. J.J. La Poorta was requested to prepare a document in this regard, which was considered by the NOB, as well as the November 2018 National Leadership Forum (NLF). The meeting resolved that the document be made available to all NLF members for their consideration and input. During the March 2019 NLF meeting the document was considered and accepted.
The following main sections of the document guided the NLF in its decision to apply for membership of the WCC (World Council of Churches) namely, the theological and Biblical rationale of ecumenism, unity and fellowship as expressed in the work of the WCC today.
2. Appeal For Emergency Relief In The Wake Of Cyclone Idai
The president of the AFM of SA, Past. George Mahlobo has already called for emergency relief to assist our members and other individuals in distress in especially Mozambique, Malawi and Zimbabwe. In Mozambique alone more than 900 000 children are affected, with some being separated from their families. Our sister church in Zimbabwe, the AFM in Zimbabwe is coordinating emergency relief for the affected areas in Zimbabwe. To provide assistance in Zimbabwe, please contact the AFM leadership in Zimbabwe.
In the light of the Cholera outbreak in and around Beira, we are focusing on Mozambique and Malawi.
Donations in the form of cash, non-perishable foodstuff, maize, clothing, blankets and anything that will help families to set up their homes are welcome. The National Leadership Forum (NLF), as well as some of the AFM’s Regional structures has already donated a sizeable amount of R240,000.00 in this regard, but more is needed.
ASSISTANCE FOR MOZAMBIQUE
Sent through AFRICA MISSIONS.
Materials and food supplies can be delivered at:
PLOT 147, Hebron Road, HAAKDOORNBOOM, PRETORIA.
Donations can be deposited into the following account:
ABSA, Africa Missions, Account Number 60174970
Branch: Pretoria North (Use universal branch code)
*Please specify who made the deposit.
*Please use the following codes:
Roofing Material for Mozambique and Malawi – Moz/Mal A
For food, transportations etc. for Mozambique and Malawi – Moz/Mal B
For any additional information contact:
Project Manager (Mozambique/Malawi Relief Work): Drienie Jacobs 079 622 4053
Admin: Gary Gilmore 071 986 2270
Office: 012 642 2965 / 012 542 2998
ASSISTANCE FOR MALAWI
Where nine (9) AFM church buildings were damaged and approximately 600 AFM members are affected, should be sent through the AFM Mpumalanga Highveld Region which is coordinating emergency relief there.
Financial donations should be made into the following Bank Account:
AFM Mpumalanga Highveld Region, Absa Bank, Account No. 4054151766
Branch: Middelburg, Reference: Malawi Project
For additional information:
Past Victor Sibiya (Regional Leader): 082 744 4505
Let us continue to pray for all those affected by this natural disaster – for all those who have lost loved ones and their homes. Our hearts go out to every individual in this difficult time.
Blessings
NOB Members