親愛的代禱夥伴：

        昨天突然收到相識多年的楊弟兄以通訊軟件與我聯繫，原來他已經從南非返回家鄉。近年不少華人因為不同的因素撤離南非，回到故居。新冠疫情嚴重打擊南非經濟，加上電力供應不足，導至停水停電，通貨膨脹，經濟受到一重又一重的打擊。現今經營生意比新冠疫情之前困難許多，購買物品的顧客大大減少，經濟不景也使治安比從前更糟。以前只怕買不到店做生意，現在想賣店卻找不到買家，因為想離開南非的人比想進入南非的人更多。楊弟兄那時為一個主內弟兄打工，有休假就會來崇拜。他除了問候我們外，也提到他常常思念在南非時的教會生活、牧師師母和弟兄姐妹。他說：「從前在一起時，不感覺到相親相愛，現在卻懷念那一段美好日子中的每個人；就是能重遊舊地，也找不回每個弟兄姐妹了。」我提醒他，神有更美好的安排，就是我們有一天在天上還可相見！

        我們服事流動性高的散居人口，經常會有這種甘甜又惆悵的感受。甘甜的是我們萍水相逢，就在他們需要神的時候，我們的一個行動讓他們遇見了神。這個行動可能是傳了福音給他們，或陪伴了他們，安慰了他們，鼓勵了他們。楊弟兄在異地他鄉生活時，教會是他的家，弟兄姐妹就是他的親人；神通過弟兄姐妹在主裡愛的關顧，使他感受到神的愛。惆悵的是在異國環境人常變動，教會甜美真誠的相處終會結束，我們只能擁有美好的回憶，只能說珍重再見！我們要完全相信神引領我們的事工，神知道也掌管一切。

        引領弟兄姐妹成長有時亦很艱辛，要用耐心和愛心去對待他們。時候到了，必結出好果子。今年聖誕節，我們收到一位許久沒有聯絡的姐妹的問候。這位姐妹受到異教徒的影響，在信仰上一直爭戰很大。不管她被牽引離開神有多遠，多久沒有來聚會，我們總是去探望她、鼓勵她，在她需要時去幫助她。今年她的問候附上一個短訊：「我回到神的家了。雖然我曾遠離過主，但主的愛並不減少！感謝你們一直以來對我的信心不變，相信我、支持我。」她的話提醒我們，愛心的付出絕對不會浪費。要體恤落在軟弱中的人，要繼續去鼓勵他們，關心他們。

請您為這些事情代禱：

1. 請為返回原居地的弟兄姐妹能尋到合適的教會代禱，使他們在主裡繼續成長。
2. 求主幫助南非政府能早日解決電力供應的問題。現在每天停電10小時，影響生活與工商業發展。
3. 求主幫助南非政府能有效發展經濟，並控制通貨膨脹，提高就業率。
4. 求主保守我們能繼續在網絡上跟兩個南非教會的弟兄姐妹一起敬拜和查考聖經，不被停電影響。

您的同工                     
克達、雅麗                
二零二三年二月

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Dear Prayer Partners,

        Yesterday I received a message from Brother Yang whom I knew for many years.  We have not been in contact for a few years.  He told me that he is now in his homeland and is using this new account to connect with me again.  Due to different reasons, many Chinese had chosen to return home.  The pandemic has been a huge blow to the South African economy, the country’s dire condition is being compounded by unstable supply of electricity, water shortage and high inflation.  With decreasing customer base and worsening crime rates, businesses are impossible to make any profit these past few years.  It used to be hard for new immigrants to find businesses to acquire.  Now the table has turned, and it is hard to find buyers for their businesses.  Brother Yang used to work for another brother in Christ, and he would come to church whenever he had the day off.  He mentioned that he missed everyone in church and lamented, “I did not think much about our time together when I attended church, but now I remember all the great times we had and cherish every single one of them.  Even if I visit South Africa again, I would not be able to find everyone!”  I reminded him that our Lord has greater plans for us, and one day we will meet again in heaven!

        Ministering among Chinese diasporas let us experience this emotional roller coaster.  It would give us great joy to meet them and witness their encounters with God.  It could be a witnessing opportunity or just a passing when they needed help and encouragement.  To Brother Yang, our church was a home away from home where he was showered with God’s love through fellow Christians.  Nevertheless, we felt sad when we had to part our ways.  Since South Africa is not our permanent home, we can only say our goodbyes and embrace our wonderful memories in our hearts.  We fully entrust our future with our Lord because He reigns and holds the keys to tomorrow and eternity.

        To foster growth in Christians requires a lot of hard work, patience and love, but we will see our work in completion in due time.  Around New Year’s time, we received greetings from a sister who had left the church a number of years ago.  She was pulled away by another religion and had been struggling back and forth.  Yet we still visited her from time to time, encouraged her with God’s Word and stood by her in her time of need.  In her message, she told us, “I have returned to God’s family!  Even though I had wandered away, God’s love was always there!  Thank you for never doubting my faith, believing in me and supporting me.”  We rejoice that our persistence in love was not in vain.  Let us continue to have compassion for the weak, to encourage and support them.

Please pray for the following:

1. May the Lord lead our brothers and sisters who had returned to China to find new church homes where they can continue their spiritual growth.
2. May the Lord help the government in resolving its electricity crisis. It is now escalated to Level 6 Load Shedding with 10 hours of blackouts per day.  It seriously affected daily living and business operations.
3. May the Lord also help the government find effective ways to curb inflation and create more employment opportunities.
4. May the Lord continue to bless the various on-line meetings so they will not be interrupted by electricity outages.

In His service,        
Ko-Ta & Christina

親愛的代禱夥伴：

        最近有一位參加我們週間查經小組的姐妹告知，有一位從鄰國納米比亞來的女牧師和一位自稱是使徒的人，在南非傳「恩典福音」，還徵召人加入他們。早幾年，我們已經聽過這個只談恩典赦免而不談聖潔的異端在約翰尼斯堡活動，後來沒有聽到他們的消息。但現在他們似乎壯大了些，在弟兄姐妹之間傳播一些三至五分鐘的「基督教信仰」短片，有的滲入了謬論曲解的聖經內容，對不熟悉真道的信徒就很容易被誤導。另一位弟兄說他看了短片，覺得與真理不和，但是一時又說不出錯謬之處，說明這異端的詭詐。我們知道有人已經被這個異端吸引去了！使徒保羅要以弗所的長老警醒，因為必有兇暴的豺狼進入，也必有人起來說悖謬的話，要引誘門徒跟從他們（徒二十29-30）。請為已經誤入歧途的姐妹禱告，求主憐憫使她能脫離，求主幫助我們以真理裝備信徒，賜我們智慧的話勸導那些正被迷惑的人，警誡信徒不要接待傳異端的人，不要在他們的惡上有分（約貳10-11）。

        南非的供電問題一直令人非常困擾，因為不清楚根本的問題到底是什麼，南非政府和電力公司從沒有說清楚，也沒有提出解決的方法。前兩個星期電力公司宣佈將要更長時間停止供電，因為今年度（到2023年３月）的緊急備用油已經用完了。原因是過去的八個月，一般供電站故障太多，所以為了填補缺少的電力，就用了緊急備用油去發電。電力公司說政府必需補貼這些緊急備用油的費用，否則大家就得忍受斷電。在過去八個月用油的消耗量大增時，卻沒有提出警告，到油將用完時才公佈，很明顯管理的人沒有好好盡責辦事。這一類管理問題在南非很普遍，而另一個問題就是貪腐。南非的能源部長竟然對電力公司執行長反腐倡廉的工作公開表示不滿，數落他「僅僅是抓罪犯，無助於改善電力集團的狀況。」認為他不稱職，沒有專業知識。還好，南非的總統拉馬福薩賞識並且支持電力公司執行長的反貪腐工作。由此可見貪腐問題的錯綜複雜。而聖經提醒我們：賄賂是滋生腐敗的溫床，小則擾害己家，大則使國家傾敗（箴十五27；二十九4）。

        我們繼續經由網路的通訊和南非的弟兄姐妹聯絡、主日敬拜、週間查聖經。主日敬拜在講詩篇，週間仍在查馬太福音。感謝主，從前和我們一起服事的黃弟兄今年中從南非移居去了紐西蘭。他們主動要求要像他們在南非時一樣服事教會，從上星期開始帶領小組專題「像基督一樣的引領」。這幾個星期他們將繼續跨國的服事！充份的使用網路（紐西蘭、南非、美國）一起上課！求主記念他們的辛勞及愛心。

請您為這些事情代禱：

1. 請為誤入異端歧途的姐妹代禱，求主引領她回頭，早日脫離異端。
2. 求主制止異端謬論的傳播，幫助信徒明辨真道，拒絕並遠離異端。
3. 求主幫助南非政府能早日解決電力供應的問題。
4. 求主助南非政府嚴厲整頓治安，使犯罪案件下降，穩定人心。

您的同工                     
克達、雅麗                
二零二二年十二月

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Dear Prayer Partners,

        Recently, a sister in one of our Bible study groups informed us of a female pastor from Namibia and an accompanying self-proclaimed “apostle” who are spreading a new “grace gospel” in and around Johannesburg.  Actually, we already heard about this new group that preaches total grace and forgiveness but no need to repent again in order to lead a holy life.  Now they have resurfaced again stronger, advertising themselves as the truth gospel with 3-5 minutes’ short video clips and trying to attract other Christians to join.  We watched a few of these video clips and found that they are mixed with some truth and some false teachings which can easily confuse those who are not very well-versed in the correct interpretation of the Bible.  One of our brothers also received them from another sister.  He can sense that something is not right but cannot quite pinpoint what it is.  They are really deceitful!  Paul warned the Ephesian elders that after he left, “savage wolves will come in” and “distort the truth in order to draw away disciples after them” (Acts 20:29-30).  Please pray for the sister that had been deceived; may the Lord help her realize this falsehood and leave them.  May the Lord also grant us wisdom to equip our flock with truth, guide the swayed back and encourage fellow Christians to reject these false teachers so they may not share in their wicked work (2 John 10-11).

        The country’s electricity crisis has been worsening.  People are angry because neither the government nor the utility company can give them any explanation or solution.  A couple weeks ago, the company even announced further plans for more load shredding.  Their excuse was that over the past eight months there were too many power station breakdowns so they had to draw from the emergency reserves.  If the government does not agree to subsidize them in replenishing these reserves, the country will have to face blackouts.  What were the management doing over the past eight months?  Why didn’t they give out any advanced notification or respond earlier?  They are either incompetent or irresponsible, or both.  Sadly, this is not uncommon in South Africa.  It is compounded by the country’s widespread corruption. The Energy Minister even reproached the new CEO of the utility company for being unprofessional in spending too much time to fight corruption, saying that it did nothing to relieve the energy crisis!  On the other hand, the CEO has President Ramaphosa’s support.  It is an intricate issue and a political tug of war!  Yet we need to take into heart our Bible’s warning that bribery is the breeding ground for corruption; it not only can bring troubles to one’s family but also can tear down a country (Proverbs 15:27, 29:4).

        We continue to hold on-line Bible study meetings and worship services with our churches in South Africa.  Currently, our Sunday sermon series is on the book of Psalms, and our Bible study is on Matthew.  A couple who used to serve with us in the Cape Town church immigrated to New Zealand about six months ago.  Praise the Lord!  They are joining us again.  Starting from last week, they will be leading our Bible study on a series entitled “Lead Like Jesus.”  We are fully utilizing the internet to support each other in three different countries (New Zealand, South Africa, United States)!  May the Lord bless them in their service!

Please pray for the following:

1. May the Lord lead our sister out of the cult.
2. May the Lord stop the spreading of false teachings and help Christians discern the truth.
3. May the Lord help the government in resolving its electricity crisis.
4. May the Lord empower the government in fighting crimes and restore security in the country.

In His service,        
Ko-Ta & Christina

親愛的代禱夥伴：

        感謝主，南非感染新冠疫情的人數兩個月前已開始下降，政府也開始放寬防疫監測的工作。雖然每天仍有人因疫症喪命，但是人們由於長期抗疫而產生疲乏和麻木的心態，因而對病毒的警覺性也降低不少。南非最近兩個星期染疫的人數又再增加，而症狀與Omicron BA. 5稍有不同，南非的病毒專家提醒民眾，如果這次的感染人數持續昇高，南非有可能會有第六波的疫情。

        好的消息是南非公司Biovac即將生產商用COVID疫苗Pfizer-BioNTech。十月份開始每年可生產一億劑供應非洲各國的需要，減少依賴西方國家供應疫苗。另外，新冠疫情在短短兩年為南非增加了十五萬名的孤兒，帶來多重問題，從撫養到照顧、失學、早婚、犯罪等等。這些問題像是病毒的後遺症一般，無法避免。政府需要投入資源去解决，但是疫情打擊著南非的經濟，政府已經很拮据了，情況實在窘困。

        由於經濟不好，物價高漲，南非最近各樣犯罪的事件增加不少。在一些治安較差的地區，綁架的事件增加了，在光天化日之下，綁匪極其猖狂，直接從商店中將店主擄走。綁架對象是以外國商人為目標（受仇外心態影響），受害人包括華人、索馬利亞人和孟加拉人，亦有城鎮中的商店收到字條通知，每月必需固定交付保護費給犯罪集團，否則就會成為被綁架的目標。犯罪集團收保護費的事件，警方亦有通告給商店，提醒各個商家小心處理，但是卻沒有整頓杜絕勒索的方案！由於沒有安全保障，一些華人商家已經計劃離開。請為南非的治安禱告，幫助警察杜絕綁架擄人事件。

        南非面臨很糟糕的電力供應問題，時好時壞，政府和電力公司都說不清楚原因，也沒有具體的解決方案和可恢復正常供電的時間表。有時會停電六個小時，有時會停兩個小時，大家似乎也習慣了，有電就用，無電就等；持續的停電會影響工業生產和商業復甦。斷電也影響我們週間小組查經的出席人數。求主幫助南非能盡快解決電力供應的問題，支持經濟的發展。

        我們繼續經由網路通訊與南非的弟兄姐妹聯絡，主日崇拜，週間查聖經。主日崇拜在講約伯記，週間在查馬太福音。有機會就會視訊聊聊天，大家互相問候。感謝主，沒有因為使用網路而感到不足。

請您為這些事情代禱：

1. 求主保守南非的新冠疫情能平息穩定，不再高升。
2. 感謝主，南非將可生產新冠病毒疫苗供應非洲各國抗疫。
3. 求主幫助南非政府能智慧的解決新冠疫症帶來的孤兒問題。
4. 求主助南非政府嚴厲整頓治安使罪案下降，穩定人心。
5. 求主幫助南非能解決電力供應的問題，使工業和商業能發展。

您的同工                     
克達、雅麗                
二零二二年九月

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Dear Prayer Partners,

        Praise the Lord!  COVID infection rates started to subside since July, and the government has been lessening its restrictions steadily.  Even though related fatalities are still being recorded every day, people are getting tired of and being numb to the pandemic, resulted in loose adherence to protective measures.  We have seen the number of COVID cases increased over the last two weeks, and the symptoms are slightly different from Omicron BA. 5.  Experts in South Africa warn that they may be facing the sixth wave soon.

        The good news is that South Africa’s Biovac will start production of the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccines in October, with an estimated output of 100 million doses per year.  This will greatly relieve African countries from relying on supplies from Western countries.  However, South Africa has experienced an increase of more than 150,000 orphans over the past two years, resulted with problems in caretaking, schooling, early marriages, crimes, etc.  These are unavoidable sequelae of the pandemic.  The government needs to devote more resources to resolve these issues, but it would be a difficult task under its already worsening economy.

        Because of the weakening economy and high inflation, crime rates are on the rise.  Kidnapping is happening in an alarming rate in a lot of the crime-infected cities.  Some kidnappers would walk into a store in broad daylight, bind and take the owner away.  Their targets are all foreigners from China, Somalia and Bengal (due to xenophobia).  Stores in these cities even received notices to pay monthly “protection fees”; otherwise, they would be the next target.  The police also issued warnings to the stores but did not offer any plan of action.  The Chinese in these cities are living in fears, and many of them plan to sell off their inventory and leave as soon as possible.  Please pray for improved law and order in South Africa, especially the police’s ability to tackle kidnapping crimes.

        The electricity supply crisis is still not under control yet.  Nobody can give a clear explanation of the problem or any definite date of restoration.  People need to face outages from two to six hours each day; they have no other choices but to work around it.  This in fact put an extra burden on its fragile industrial and business revival.  At the same time, our weekday Bible study attendance has also been impacted.  May the Lord help South Africa come up with effective ways in bringing back stable electricity supply to support the recuperation of its economy.

        We continue to serve our brothers and sisters in South Africa through online Bible study meetings and worship services.  Currently, our Sunday sermon series is on the book of Job, and our Bible study is on Matthew.  Praise the Lord, we enjoy good fellowship and sharing every time we meet.

Please pray for the following:

1. May the Lord show His mercy and carry South Africa through the pandemic.
2. We thank the Lord for the successful progress in the COVID vaccine production in South Africa.
3. May the Lord grant wisdom to the government to devise effective solutions to the orphanage issue.
4. May the Lord empower the government in fighting crimes and restore security in the country.
5. May the Lord enable South Africa to solve its electricity crisis and revive its economy.

In His service,        
Ko-Ta & Christina

親愛的代禱夥伴：

        最近德班教會的一位姐妹向我們查訊是否認識一位華人婦女，我們才知道韓國的異端教會又在騷擾南非的華人教會了。這個新加入德班的婦女，其實是從韓國的異端教會來的，她曾經在別的城市以慕道友的身份接近教會，教會的弟兄姐妹都被蒙在鼓裡，後來從上慕道班到真道班學習，之後加入教會。之後，她開始在教會群組散佈異端的謬論，例如一個人信主後若軟弱犯罪，不需要再向神認罪。她拒絕接受我們對她的規勸，我們就在教會的群組指正這個異端的錯謬，並且將她移離教會的群組。因為她當時也搬離那個城市去了首都約翰尼斯堡，所以那次被異端騷擾的事件很快的結束了。這次異端會被暴露出來，是因為她有一些很離譜的行為，引起教會弟兄姐妹想知道她的信仰背景才向我們查詢。感謝主！異端份子被發現了。這件事提醒我們要時刻警醒。「務要謹守，警醒。因為你們的仇敵魔鬼，如同吼叫的獅子，遍地遊行，尋找可吞吃的人。」（彼前五8）。另外聖經也提醒我們要嚴防異端「從前在百姓中有假先知起來，將來在你們中間也必有假師傅，私自引進陷害人的異端，連買他們的主他們也不承認，自取速速地滅亡。」（彼後二1）。請繼續為德班教會代禱。

        感謝主，南非新冠Omicron BA4和BA5引起的第五波疫情已經緩和，從每天有數千人感染降至每天二百多人感染，數人死亡。本月初，南非宣布已經利用莫德納公司公開的新冠疫苗核酸序列，開發出非洲大陸首款mRNA疫苗，並計劃於2022年底前開展臨床試驗，預計第一次批次將在2024年可以在非洲生產，直接供非洲使用，也可以提高南非人接種疫苗的比例。

        南非最近電力供應不足，時常停電，有時停電十到十二個小時。持續的停電影響工業生產和商業復甦。斷電也使一些弟兄姐妹沒法參加小組查經。南非最近經濟稍有復甦，求主幫助南非能盡快解決電力供應的問題，支持經濟發展。也求主幫助南非政府做好治理工作，使治安良好，犯罪下降。

        感謝主使我們仍然能保持在網路上和南非兩間教會的弟兄姐妹一起敬拜和查考聖經。雖然用網路比不上實體聚會，但是，習慣了也還可以。用視訊聊天也感到溫馨，送上真誠的愛和關心。這樣也有方便之處，省去交通的時間，網路上開會也減低病毒感染的可能性。

請您為這些事情代禱：

1. 求主保守德班教會合一相愛，在真道上站立得穩。
2. 南非最近經濟稍有復甦，求主幫助南非能盡快解決水電供應的問題，支持經濟發展。
3. 求主助南非早日能生產疫苗來支援抗疫工作。
4. 求主賜智慧給南非政府官員更好的治理國家。
5. 求主保守我們能繼續在網路上和南非兩個教會的弟兄姐妹一起敬拜，並一同查考聖經，不被攪擾。

您的同工                     
克達、雅麗                
二零二二年六月

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Dear Prayer Partners,

        Recently one sister at our Durban church inquired us about a Chinese lady that came to church, and we realized that the Korean cult that had targeted our other church in another city is at work again.  Years back this same lady pretended to be a seeker, attended our baptism class and joined our church.  Soon after, she started to post articles and sermons of the cultic “grace gospel” – for example, they claim that because God’s grace is sufficient, Christians no longer need to repent and pray for forgiveness anymore.  We tried every means to explain, advise and exhort her.  She eventually showed herself not to be a confused believer but a false teacher of the cult.  We then exposed her cult and kicked her out of our church’s WeChat group.  As she had already moved to Johannesburg, the matter ended there.  This time, she was quickly discovered because our church members noticed her questionable postings on social media.  We thank God that this cultic infiltration was stopped in time.  This is a reminder to us that we need to be alert at all times.  “Be self-controlled and alert.  Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour.” (I Peter 5:8) In addition, the Bible also warns us that “But there were also false prophets among the people, just as there will be false teachers among you.  They will secretly introduce destructive heresies, even denying the sovereign Lord who bought them – bringing swift destruction on themselves.” (II Peter 2:1) Please pray for the Durban church!

        Praise the Lord!  The fifth wave of the Omicron BA4 and BA5 in South Africa had subsided.  The infection rate has dropped from thousands to a couple hundreds with single-digit fatality.  Since Moderna released its COVID vaccine’s nucleic acid sequence, South Africa announced its own development of the mRNA vaccine.  With clinical trials scheduled by the end of the year, the first batch of vaccines will be available in 2024.  At that time, the African continent can produce its own vaccines and greatly increase its inoculation rate.

        Lately, electricity outages in South Africa reach an alarming stage with 10 to 12 hours’ blackout at times.  This seriously hampers its industrial production and economic revival.  As a result, some brothers and sisters were unable to attend Bible studies.  Please pray for the officials to quickly resolve the problem, able to govern effectively and control its crime rate.

        We thank the Lord for our online Bible studies and worship services.  Even though it is not the same as in-person meetings, we are able to adjust well.  We can still care for each other and feel the warmth and taste the sweetness of our love in Christ.  At the same time, we can save some transportation time and avoid the risk of being infected.

Please pray for the following:

1. Please pray for the Lord’s protection for our brothers and sisters that they will be united in love and stand firm in truth.
2. Please pray for South Africa that it can stabilize its electricity and water supply.
3. Please pray for South Africa’s speedy development and production of the COVID vaccines.
4. May the Lord grant wisdom to the officials in better governing of the country.
5. May the Lord continue to bless our online worship services and Bible studies for the two churches in South Africa.

In His service,        
Ko-Ta & Christina

親愛的代禱夥伴：

        兩個星期前，南非東岸破紀錄降下暴雨（48小時降下45公分的雨），引發六十年來最嚴重的洪災。夸祖魯那濤爾省港口城市德班受害程度最嚴重，連道路、橋樑都被洪水沖走，超過六千棟建築物被摧毀，有四百多人罹難。省內多個地區被淹沒，交通全面中斷，德班市多處斷水斷電。真是天有不測風雲，人有旦夕禍福。聖經也提醒我們人生變化無常，「也不要倚賴靠不住的錢財；要倚靠那厚賜萬物給我們享受的上帝」（提前六17b）。

        最近兩星期，南非新冠Omicron的疫情又再次上升，每天幾千人感染，數十人死亡。南非因為愛滋病的人口多，造成防疫的漏洞。新的變種不斷出現，現在南非傳播已是新的Omicron B.A.4的變種，南非國民接種疫苗意願不高，完成接種疫苗者一直停在總人口的四成五，使疫情不能根除，每四個月左右就會有疫情高峰期出現。求主幫助南非人民認真的對抗第五輪的疫情。

        南非繼續不斷的發生針對外籍人士的抗議事件，暴民將外國人從市場中趕走，不准他們開店。南非當地人將這一行動稱之為Operation Dudula（Dudula——祖魯語，是強力趕走的意思）。他們抗議政府容許非法移民滯留南非。警察只是調查暴力事件，但無法實際解決雙方的暴力衝突。主要原因是政府官員尋私圖利。箴言提醒我們「王藉公平，使國堅定；索要賄賂，使國傾敗。」（箴二十九4）。這句箴言道破了南非政府治理上最基本的問題。求主改變人心，歸向正道。

        上星期我們參加了一間教會的宣教年會，講員提醒大家，教會要從愛鄰舍的行動開始推動普世的宣教。那間教會立即組織會眾參與不同的事工小組，去服事他們所在城市的需要。雖然疫情尚未結束，也已經組織了短宣隊，準備疫症平息後就可以出發。在這個時刻差派短宣隊，似乎有點不合宜，因為世界正充滿著不平安的消息，有俄烏戰爭、中國及台灣的疫情、世界各國面臨通澎的問題。這些問題都是使人焦慮，使人沮喪的事。戰爭沒有結束的徵兆、疫情短期不會解封、通澎正方興未艾。我們應該行動嗎？我想我們應該付諸行動，不要遲延，因為這個世界永遠都會有新的問題出現，傳福音的事是永遠不應該被擱置的。願我們齊心努力，積極地去宣揚福音！

請您為這些事情代禱：

1. 感謝主，南非德班教會在四月份重開實體崇拜。因為疫情還不穩定，求主保守。
2. 南非東岸那濤爾省受暴雨襲擊，引發大規模洪災，求主安慰災民，並幫助政府作好救災的工作。
3. 南非新冠Omicron的疫情又再次上升。求主幫助政府官員認真的執行防疫措施，並加強接種疫苗的工作。
4. 南非繼續不斷發生針對外籍人士的抗議事件，求主改變人心歸正，使南非政府官員能不尋私利、公正執法，杜絕非法移民。
5. 南非最近電力不足，大小城市經常停電，對生活造成不便，更打擊工業生產及已經脆弱的經濟。求主賜智慧給南非政府官員更好的治理國家。
6. 感謝主使我們能在網路上和南非兩個教會的弟兄姐妹一起敬拜和查考聖經，求主保守我們能繼續正常的運作，不被攪擾。

您的同工                     
克達、雅麗                
二零二二年四月

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Dear Prayer Partners,

        Two weeks ago, a severe thunderstorm landed on the east coast of South Africa and dropped more than 45 cm of rain in 48 hours.  This caused the greatest flooding in the last 60 years.  Durban, being the harbor city of the Natal province, suffered the hardest hit with damaged roads, collapsed bridges, thousands of destroyed buildings and more than 400 fatalities.  A lot of communities were under water, traffic as well as electricity and water supplies were disrupted.  Life indeed is uncontrollable!  The Bible has already warned us that we do not know what tomorrow will bring and reminded us to “Command those who are rich in this present world not to be arrogant nor to put their hope in wealth, which is so uncertain, but to put their hope in God, who richly provides us with everything for our enjoyment.” (I Tim. 6:17)

        These last couple of weeks we are also seeing the number of COVID cases in South Africa climbing to new highs, with daily averages over 5,000 and dozens of deaths.  Due to the large population of HIV-positive patients, new variants are rapidly emerging.  South Africa is now battling with the new Omicron B.A. 4 variant.  Because of the low inoculation rate (only 45%), a new wave comes about every four months.  May the Lord help the people realize the importance of taking this pandemic seriously.

        At the same time, xenophobic violence incidents are worsening.  Protestors take matters into their own hands, threatening foreign merchants and carrying out raids on their stores.  They call it Operation Dudula (Dudula is Zulu meaning “to push out”).  They claim that the government is not doing anything to address the illegal immigrant issue.  Law enforcement is also helpless in stopping the violence, they can only place these cases of public disorder and intimidation in investigation.  Unfortunately, this is mainly caused by corrupted officials who ignore their sworn responsibilities.  As Proverbs said, “By justice a king gives a country stability, but those who are greedy for bribes tear it down.” (Prov. 29:4)  May the Lord work in their hearts to return to the right way.

        Last week, we attended the mission conference of a local church.  The speaker reminded us that global mission starts from loving your neighbors.  At the conclusion of the conference, the church distributed response cards for all attendees to get involved in local community caring activities.  The church has also started forming short-term mission teams and prepares to go as soon as the pandemic eases up.  It seems depressing enough to see the world in the midst of the war in Ukraine, new COVID cases in China and Taiwan, plus high inflation rates everywhere.  With all these unsolved problems dangling above us, is it the appropriate time to be in action?  I believe we should not be deterred as this world will always have challenges.  Do not delay but continue to forge ahead in spreading the good news!

Please pray for the following:

1. We thank God that the church in Durban has started in-person Sunday worship in April. Please pray for health and safety for the church members during the pandemic.
2. Please pray for the Lord’s mercy on those who suffered losses during the flood. May the Lord give wisdom to the government in its disaster relief operations.
3. South Africa is currently facing a new Omicron variant. May the Lord continue to help the government in coming up with effective ways to increase the country’s inoculation rate.
4. May the Lord turn the hearts of the government officials to be willing to set aside personal gains, to uphold justice and resolve the country’s illegal immigrant problem.
5. South Africa is experiencing frequent electricity outages which greatly affect factory production and its weak economy. Please pray for wisdom from the Lord for the government in tackling all its issues.
6. May the Lord continue to bless our online worship services and Bible studies for the two churches in South Africa.

In His service,        
Ko-Ta & Christina

親愛的代禱夥伴：

        感謝主，我們能夠仍然在網路上服事在南非的弟兄姐妹，而且果效很好。例如我們在南非時間晚上七點半的週四查經聚會，與一群散居在南非不同省份小鎮上的姐妹們查經。我們最初只認識林姐妹，是早前在自由省服侍時經白人牧師介紹認識的。之後，我們有機會就會繞道去探訪她，跟她分享福音和造就性的影音光碟、聖經、詩歌本等。其他的組員都是林姐妹在網路上聯絡的。本來不可能一起聚會和不相識的人，就因為在網路上查經而聯接在一起，現今這羣姐妹已成為彼此奔走天路的同路人、代禱的夥伴。神的安排真是奇妙！姐妹們每週都準時上線，認真學習。雖然有時會因停電和訊號接收不良而掛線，但是她們都能設法再聯接上繼續學習。由於流量的限制，我們只能用語音通訊，漸漸地大家也習慣了。若不是疫情的限制，透過網路語音查考聖經和崇拜聚會，恐怕很難被接受，也很難持久，但現在已成為新常態的選項。將近兩年以來，我們沒有被疫情孤立，卻因為疫情而擴展！我們已經查考了保羅的監獄書信，剛才開始查考福音書。請您為這羣姐妹們學習聖經代禱，也請為聚會時網路能通暢無阻代禱。

        一月中，南非東岸德班城，市中心一棟華商七層批發大樓失火燒毁。因為起火在上午時份，人員得以即時逃離，僅有人受傷，無人死亡。這座大樓除商店外，還有倉庫和兩層公寓。我們從2012年5月起就住在大樓的公寓內，直到去年2021年11月遷出。在新冠疫症前有八年半的時間，我們每週在那公寓的客廳有敬拜聚會，大樓中有十幾户是教會的弟兄姐妹。一棟大樓突然就被燒毁，提醒我們世事無常，事工的機會不是永遠存在的，我們要把握機會，努力多作主工，不要拖延。

        當火災發生時，有人將裝著現金的皮包丟下，落地後現金散落地上被人搶走，也聽說公寓住户不少聖誕節買賣的現金尚存在家中，起火後已經無法去取，一場火災燒去他們多年的心血和努力。求主安慰這些受災的華商，也提醒我們每一個人「不要為那必壞的食物勞力，要為那存到永生的食物勞力。」（約六27）。人應該努力追求，為著永生勞力。商人為著帶不走的金錢孜孜不倦，我們天國之子豈不更應該勤力宣揚福音。

        感謝主，南非新冠Omicron引來第四波的疫情已經下降，但是每天仍有上千人被感染，百多人死亡。最主要的原因是南非目前只有百分之三十的人口是完全接種了疫苗。面對新變種的威脅，南非必需提高接種疫苗的人數，繼續做好防疫的工作。疫情使南非經濟下滑，也引發排外事件，2月14日南非約翰尼斯堡的亞歷山大區發生排外事件，南非人驅趕外籍的攤販離開，從流動攤販擴大到商店。原本的遊行抗議活動演變成暴力驅趕。暴力行為遭到外籍店主的猛烈反擊，有12人受傷，有人揚言要把所有的外國人都趕走，一時排外情緒高漲。請為南非政府維穏經濟的政策禱告。

請您為這些事情代禱：

1. 感謝主，南非新冠Omicron的疫情已經下降，求主幫助政府官員釐定並執行防疫政策。
2. 求主幫助南非國民遵守政府規定，做好防疫並且加速接種疫苗對抗新冠病毒。
3. 南非德班批發城新華商城毁於大火，其中有一些商人是教會的弟兄姐妹，求主安慰他們的傷痛，幫助他們重新安置，引領他們前面的道路。
4. 感謝主使我們能在網路上和南非兩個教會的弟兄姐妹一起敬拜和查考聖經，求主保守我們能繼續正常的運作，不被攪擾。

您的同工                     
克達、雅麗                
二零二二年二月

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Dear Prayer Partners,

        We praise the Lord for the smooth running and fruitfulness of all our Bible studies and worship services online. For example, the participants of our Thursday Bible study are from different cities of South Africa. We originally only knew one of them, Sister Lin. When we were serving at Bloemfontein, one South African minister introduced us to her. On our way to Newcastle, we would make a side trip to visit her and studied the Bible together with her. We also supplied her with Bibles, hymn books and various kinds of CD’s for herself and her evangelistic outreach. She invited some of her fellow Christians to join this meeting, and now we have bonded together as fellow soldiers of the Lord and faithful prayer partners! What a wonderful Lord! Due to the unstable power supply and internet services as well as the expensive mobile data charges, we can only meet via audio connection. Even though they will get disconnected from time to time, they remain upbeat and persistent. The pandemic did actually help us with our transition. Since meeting online has become the “norm” over these two years, there were no resistance to our remote ministering to our churches in South Africa. It has even expanded our ministry to those outside of our usual area of contact. We just finished Paul’s letters from jail and started to study one of the gospels. Please pray for our sisters in this group, especially for their internet connections.

        In mid-January, a 7-story Chinese wholesale building in Durban was severely damaged by fire. Fortunately, it happened in the morning, and everyone was able to evacuate with no casualty. In addition to storefronts and storage facilities, there are apartments on the sixth and seventh floors. This is the place we called home since 2012 until we moved out at the end of 2021. We had been holding worship services in our place for 8-1/2 years before the pandemic. There were about 15 Christian families in the building. This sudden disaster reminds us that nothing is forever. There is no time to wait for another opportunity to proclaim the good news; we need to seize every moment as if it is the last chance.

        We heard that some people packed their cash in bags and threw them out the window, but the bags broke open as they hit the ground, and they were quickly swept up by people on the street. A lot of Chinese merchants would keep cash in their homes, and the amount they had was a lot larger than usual after Christmas. This fire did not allow them to go back to their apartments, and their money was burned to ashes. This calls to mind what John said, “Do not work for food that spoils, but for food that endures to eternal life,…” (John 6:27) Indeed, men should seek eternal life earnestly. These business people work so hard for money that cannot last, how much more should God’s people proclaim the gospel with all we have.

        Even though the fourth wave of the pandemic in South Africa has been slowly subsiding, there are still over 1,000 cases each day with over 100 deaths. The main reason is its low inoculation rate, which is around 30%. To be ready to tackle a new variant, more people in South Africa need to be vaccinated. Due to the adverse economic impact, xenophobic incidents have been on the rise. On February 14 th , protests and subsequent violence broke out against shops of foreign nationals in the Alexandra area of Johannesburg. Some shop owners fought back, and 12 persons suffered injuries. People were calling for the expulsion of all foreigners, no matter if they are legal or illegal immigrants. Please pray that the government can come up with the right policy to stabilize its economy.

Please pray for the following:

1. We thank God that South Africa is approaching the end of its fourth wave of the pandemic. May the Lord continue to help the government in carrying out effective measures.
2. May the Lord help the people to understand the importance of vaccines and be willing to get vaccinated.
3. Please pray for our brothers and sisters that suffered lost in the fire of the Chinese wholesale building in Durban. May the Lord comfort them, help them in their recovery and guide them in their new endeavors.
4. May the Lord continue to bless our online worship services and Bible studies for the two churches in South Africa.

In His service,        
Ko-Ta & Christina

親愛的代禱夥伴：

        新冠變種毒株奧密克戎（Omicron）使南非的疫情為全世界所關注。一架從南非飛往荷蘭的航機上驗出十多人染上這個變種，英國立即宣佈禁止包括南非等的非洲南部數國國民入境，接著許多國家包括美國也宣佈禁飛。Omicron毒株引來驚恐是由於它携帶病毒突變點有32個，病毒可能更易傳播或可能使病情更加嚴重，或者突破疫苗的防治。南非從十月初疫情已經緩和，之後有一個半月感染人數偏少。大家都期盼苦盡甘來，十二月份可以吸引國際觀光客，幫助一下低迷已久的經濟。所以，禁飛一事，使不少南非人感到失望，但從防疫角度來說，也是件好事，因為南非目前已經接種疫苗的人數仍只有25％。這個星期確診人數已經從幾百人倍增到一萬多人。請繼續為南非政府防疫和抗疫的工作代禱。

        我們的工作從明年起將有調整，南非的事工將僅在網路上運作，目前在網路上每週三次的查經和週日兩次的崇拜仍會繼續。所以，我們在開普敦和德班兩個教會的事工沒有改變，繼續日夜癲倒。感謝神，這種跨國網路上的運作方式，因為新冠疫情的關係而能夠被弟兄姐妹接受！另一方面，除繼續南非事工外，我們將負責美國辦公室的事務，包括行政、文宣、推動宣教、招募宣教士，並在適當的時候，帶領短宣隊到工場。估計新的事工對我們來說將有一段學習和適應，求神賜給我們聰明智慧學習，也幫助我們能快快適應新工作的作息和步調。請為我們代禱，也請在經濟上繼續支持我們。

        因著事工的調整，我們十月上旬回到南非處理交接有關的事務，十一月二十七日已平安回到美國。感謝神，許多繁瑣事情都能如期辦好。在美國用電話或上網幾分鐘可辦好的事，在南非可以很複雜。例如取消信用卡，我們得去銀行花上二、三個小時，跟不同部門溝通，才能辦好。感謝主！我們辦理差會帳户交接事務，正在一籌莫展時，服務臺的職員竟然主動幫助我們聯絡承辨人，還請分行經理協助我們，將事情在最後的幾分鐘辦好，否則我們就要在約翰尼斯堡滯留數日了。

        在離開一年半之後，我們再次見到南非兩個城市的弟兄姐妹。過去這段時間，大家只能在網路上溝通，到了見面時，感覺和往日見面一般的親切，感恩神在這段疫情的日子看顧和保守屬祂的兒女，面對未來大家都很平安，深知神必繼續看顧。弟兄姐妹分享到疫症沒有影響他們對主的信心。面對未來和南非前景，深信神一直與他們同在，神會繼續保守，他們會好好的生活，堅持他們的信仰。不論我們在哪裡生活，或是將來去到哪裡，網路將我們連接在一起，彼此鼓勵，繼續長進！

        回顧這二十年來在南非的服侍，真是主恩滿滿。不是我們做了什麽，而是親眼目睹神作為的奇妙！「深哉，神豐富的智慧和知識！他的判斷何其難測！他的蹤跡何其難尋！誰知道主的心？誰作過他的謀士呢？誰是先給了他，使他後來償還呢？因為萬有都是本於他，倚靠他，歸於他。願榮耀歸給他，直到永遠。阿們！」（羅馬書11:33-36）

請您為這些事情代禱：

1. 為我們能平安回到美國感恩。
2. 請為南非抗疫工作不會受奧密克戎（Omicron）變種毒株影響而失控代禱。
3. 求主幫助南非政府官員設法加速接種疫苗的工作。
4. 求主賜智慧使我們能勝任差會辦公室的工作及事工的運作。
5. 請為我們每週在網上的敬拜和查經都能正常運作，而且網路能暢通無阻代禱。

您的同工                     
克達、雅麗                
二零二一年十二月

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Dear Prayer Partners,

        The newest variant Omicron has been the headline news these past few days, and South Africa once again becomes the center of attention.  It all started when it was discovered that a flight from South Africa to Netherland carried 13 COVID-positive passengers.  The UK immediately suspended all flights from southern Africa countries, and many countries, including the States, soon followed suit.  As this new variant has 32 mutations, it has been creating fear in people’s minds as no one is certain about its spreading speed, health impact or ability to evade existing vaccines.  South Africa had just come out of its third wave in early October, and its infection rate had been kept in the low hundreds.  Everyone was relieved and hopeful that the December holiday would bring about much needed economic revival through incoming tourists.  Therefore, this new ban dashed their hope and brought about much disappointment.  However, from a health standpoint, it may not be such a bad thing.  Since the inoculation rate in South Africa only stands around 25%, there will be less chances of bringing in viruses from travelers.  South Africa is now officially in its fourth wave.  Its infection rate has been doubling each day, from a few hundreds to over 10,000 in less than a week.  Please continue to pray for the government for efficient and effective methods to combat the pandemic.

        Beginning next year, our ministry will have a different component.  We will continue to hold online Bible studies and worship services for the two churches in Cape Town and Durban (They are 10 hours ahead of San Jose).  After almost two years in the pandemic, brothers and sisters have gotten used to this method of fellowship.   At the same time, we will be stationed in California by heading up CEM’s US office.  Our duties will include the mission organization’s daily administration as well as mission promotion, mobilization and recruitment.  And we will lead Short Term Missions Teams when time is favorable. There will be a period of learning and adjustment for us.  May the Lord grant us wisdom and quick adapting into our new role.  Please pray for us, and please also consider your continued financial support in our new ministry.

        Due to this new direction in our ministry, we returned to South Africa in early October to settle all the transition matters.  We thank the Lord that we were able to leave South Africa on time and arrived safely back home on November 27th.  Praise the Lord!  Many tedious tasks were able to be taken care of in a timely manner.  Things that only take a few minutes online in the States can become very complicated in South Africa.  For example, we had to spend two, three hours in the bank talking to different people in different departments just to cancel our credit card.  Once we spent all day in the bank to change signers of our mission office’s account.  When we were ready to give up, the lady at reception just came up to us to offer help to trace down our business consultant.  She even talked to her branch manager who went out of her ways to help us resolve our problem just in the nick of time!  If not for them, we might need to waste a few more days in Johannesburg.

        After being away for 1-1/2 years, we met with our brothers and sisters in Cape Town and Durban.  This re-acquaintance renewed our love for each other, praising our Lord in one heart and mind, feeling privileged to be God’s children.  We do not know what the future holds, but we are sure who holds the future!  They shared with us how they experienced God’s presence and protection during the pandemic.  They vowed to stand firm in their faith and committed themselves to serve the Lord.  Wherever we are, wherever we will go, the internet tool will connect us for fellowship and encouragement in our spiritual growth!

        Looking back on our past 20 years of service in South Africa, we were filled with awe!  Not that we had accomplished anything, but we were able to see God and His marvelous deeds with our own eyes!  “Oh, the depth of the riches of the wisdom and knowledge of God!  How unsearchable his judgments, and his paths beyond tracing out!  Who has known the mind of the Lord?  Who has been his counselor?  Who has ever given to God, that God should repay him?  For from him and through him and to him are all things.  To him be the glory forever!  Amen!”  (Romans 11:33-36)

Thanksgiving and Prayer Requests:

1. We thank God for our safe return to the States.
2. Please pray for South Africa in its facing this rapid spreading variant Omicron.
3. Please pray for wisdom for government officials in implementing effective inoculation measures.
4. Please pray for our new role that the Lord will grant us wisdom and ability to adjust.
5. Please continue to pray for the smooth running of the various online Bible studies and worship services.

In His service,        
Ko-Ta & Christina

親愛的代禱夥伴：

        感謝神，南非第三波新冠肺炎疫情已經減緩，從每天一萬幾千人感染，降至過去七天每天感染人數在三千上下。第三波疫情的患者大部份是染了Delta病毒，情況比第二波嚴峻，從感染及死亡數字來看，病毒的傳播及感染率極强。疫症開始最先前的一年三個月裡，有1,637,000人受感染，而最近的三個月就有1,255,000人感染，也就是有43％的人是在這三個月被感染的。在第三波中染病死亡的有30,374人，佔35％。Delta病毒的可怕可見一斑！

        在南非，已注射疫苗人口比率不及百分之二十，雖然現時疫症開始減緩，但面臨的挑戰還有不少。首先是十一月一日的南非普選，普選之前有許多競選活動，增加人與人的接觸，如拉票、造勢活動和投票等。其次是南非有八百萬的愛滋病患，他們對新冠病毒扺抗能力弱，使新冠病毒持久寄生在病患身上，這種寄生的關係給新冠病毒更多機會產生新的變種。所以，南非愛滋人口成為了變種的溫床。減低愛滋病人不產生變種的唯一方法就是給愛滋病患者注射疫苗。

        南非民眾對接種疫苗並不熱衷，有的因為被誤導，對打疫苗和戴口罩採敵對態度。最近南非政府展開宣傳，鼓勵國民接種疫苗，如果接種率能達到50％到75％，國家的經濟活動就可以得到較大幅度的開放。若要今年底之前人口中50％接種疫苗為目標，那尚有一千八百萬人要打疫苗。政府希望每天能為廿五萬人注射疫苗，然而每天接種疫苗的人數與此相差甚遠。

        我們仍然保持每週在網路上有三處崇拜聚會和三個查經聚會。感謝主使用網路語音的聚會，並沒有影響到參加人數，大家準時出現。崇拜可以重複聽，不受地區地點限制。有的人在南非以外，有的人在南非中部大城，也有的在南非北部小鎮；大家可以聚在一起。感謝主。

        由於疫情減緩，南非政府八月中下調戒嚴到第二級，使一些商業能恢復，紓解經濟壓力。美國已宣佈十一月開放，允許多個國家（包括南非）完成疫苗接種的人進入，估計各地方將會開放。我們計劃十月上旬返回南非，請為我們旅途平安禱告。

請您為這些事情代禱：

1. 請為南非疫情不會因為選舉而失控。
2. 求主賜智慧給政府官員，幫助愛滋病患者對抗新冠病毒。
3. 求主賜智慧給南非政府官員設法加速接種疫苗的工作。
4. 感謝主保守我們每週在網上的敬拜和查經都正常運作。

您的同工                     
克達、雅麗                
二零二一年九月

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Dear Prayer Partners,

        We thank the Lord that South Africa is finally coming out of its COVID-19 third wave.  Daily cases have been coming down to an average around 3,000 from daily highs of over 10,000.  In these three months, the Delta variant has been the main virus which is more contagious and widespread.  Its impact is obvious.  The total cases in South Africa for the first 15 months of the pandemic was about 1,637,000, but these last three months had pushed the number to 2,892,000 (an increase of 1,255,000 cases, or 43%).  For the same periods, South Africa recorded another 30,374 (or a 35% increase) COVID-related deaths.  The Delta variant is indeed devastating!

        Due to the low vaccination rate of less than 20%, the end of the third wave does not give South Africa any relief from its challenges.  First of all is the upcoming general election on November 1st.  All different campaign activities can become super-spreader events.  In addition, there are about 8 million HIV-positive patients in South Africa.  They not only have a weaker immune system but also are hotbeds for new COVID variants.  The only way out is full vaccination.

        However, misinformation on face masks and vaccines have been causing hesitation among South Africans.  The government has been trying different ways to encourage people to get inoculated.  If it can reach 50% to 75% of the total population, the country’s economy can be greatly improved.  Nevertheless, to be able to achieve 50% by the end of the year (18,000,000 more people), South Africa needs to vaccinate about 250,000 persons each day; that is quite a long way from the current rate.

        Through WeChat audio communications, we continue to hold three worship services and three weekday Bible studies every week.  We thank the Lord that attendance has been very steady, and brothers and sisters in different cities of South Africa as well as those in China are able to both participate in real time and review later as they wish.

        With the temporary easing of the pandemic and the lockdown downgrading in South Africa, the economy is slowing picking up pace.  Beginning November 1st, the United States will also accept foreign travelers (including South Africa) who are fully vaccinated.  We are planning to return to South Africa on early October.  Please pray for our safe travel.

Thanksgiving and Prayer Requests:

1. Please pray for effective measures during South Africa’s election period.
2. Please pray for wisdom for government officials in implementing extra measures for HIV-positive patients.
3. Please continue to pray for smooth administration of vaccines and at a quicker pace.
4. We thank the Lord for the smooth running of the various Bible studies and worship services as brothers and sisters are encouraging one another with one heart and in love.

In His service,        
Ko-Ta & Christina

親愛的代禱夥伴：

        南非在七月發生嚴重的騷亂襲擊事件，最主要發生在夸祖魯-納塔爾省和豪登省。騷亂緣起於7月8日南非前總統雅各布．祖馬被控腐敗，且藐視法庭被判入獄。他被捕和拘留後，引發群眾抗議。7月9日晚上，夸祖魯-納塔爾省率先出現雅各布．祖馬支持者發起的示威活動，隨後示威活動升級為搶劫和暴力，更迅速蔓延到其他的城市。成千上萬的人洗劫商場、封堵高速公路，企業、工廠、診所和學校都成為襲擊的目標。7月11日晚上，騷亂蔓延更多地方，引發哄搶事件，直到軍隊的介入才平靜下來。

        騷亂之時神仍然在掌權！

        教會的王弟兄在伊士台比開成衣廠，他的工廠被暴徒襲劫和燒燬，他女兒的腳也因此受了傷。主保守他們安全離開工廠，他女兒現在也順利完成了手術。手術曾延後，因為無法購買手術所需要的配件。請為王弟兄和他女兒代禱，求主使他女兒的腳傷早日康復，安慰他們的傷痛，並且引領他們前面的道路，求主賜他們信心及恩典。

        與王弟兄同一個工廠區，陳牧師的雨鞋廠也遭到打劫和破壞，暴民將廠房牆上消防的銅管都拆走了。陳牧師和其他工人翻牆安全離開工廠。原來以為工廠的工具，配件全部丟失，後來發現主機完整沒被破壞，尋索整理後找回了工具和配件，所以機器仍然可以生產，所剩的原物料也夠生產今年的訂單。他滿心數算主的恩典，雖然受損，仍看見神在看顧，仍然為所發生的事感恩。他在教會群組中分享，使大家都得到鼓勵。正如一位弟兄分享說：「通過一場的劫難，讓我們不但看到恩主的大能和神奇，更讓我們看到真正屬靈生命的魅力」。

        在伊士台比還有五家成衣工廠是教會弟兄姐妹經營的，感謝主這次他們都沒有被騷擾。在那裡開廠的李弟兄夫婦，前兩個星期感染新冠病毒，教會弟兄姐妹為他們禱告，求主幫助他們復元；感謝主，經過兩週的服藥及療養，現今他們已經恢復。

        上次遇劫蒙神保守的陳弟兄夫婦，再次經歷到神奇妙的眷顧。當暴亂事件蔓延到豪登省時，陳弟兄請弟兄姐妹們為他們兩間店鋪的安全代禱，求主看顧。他們見證說：「昨晚我們一號店的商場被攻破，我們沒有其它辦法，只能不斷祈禱，求恩主保守。禱告之後，神給我們有平安。早上去看才發現我們周邊的店舖全被洗劫一空，唯獨我們的店毫髮無損，如詩篇91篇所應許的，一切榮耀歸於恩主！我們二號店對面的整個商場被洗劫一空，而我們所在的商場毫髮無傷。」神行了奇妙的事，保存了他們兩個商店！

請您為這些事情代禱：

1. 請為騷亂之後南非政府的恢復工作代禱，求主幫助他們能早日回歸正常。
2. 南非施打疫苗速度緩慢，求主幫助政府官員安排更快速的流程施打疫苗。
3. 南非新冠肺炎疫情最近是第三波的高峯期，求主賜智慧給南非政府官員做好抗疫的工作。
4. 請為王弟兄女兒腳傷恢復代禱，求主使她早日康復。求主也引領王弟兄前面的道路。
5. 感謝主，每週在網上的敬拜和查經都正常運作，不受攪擾，弟兄姐妹都能認真的學習。

您的同工                     
克達、雅麗                
二零二一年七月

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Dear Prayer Partners,

        South Africa just experienced a severe insurrection in July, especially in the cities of Gauteng and KwaZulu-Natal provinces.  It started on July 8th when former President Jacob Zuma was imprisoned for contempt of court in his bribery trial.  On the next day, his supporters rallied protests in different cities that turned into violence and lootings.  Tens of thousands of people joined in to block highways, to rob and destroy shops and malls, even schools and clinics.  This continued for two more days and to other cities.  It was finally controlled after the army was called in.

        God still reigns in times of turmoil!

        Brother Wang’s factory in Isithebe was totally burned down, and his daughter suffered injuries in her legs.  The Lord helped them make it out of danger, and his daughter’s surgery was completed successfully this past Monday.  She had to wait for a whole week due to a break in the supply chain of special nails for her bones.  Please pray for her speedy recovery and Brother Wang’s plans ahead.  May the Lord grant them faith and grace!

        Rev. Chen’s factory in Isithebe was also broken in.  He and his workers were able to escape by climbing over the backyard fence at the last minute.  When he went back to survey the damages, he discovered that all machines were intact, and all production tools and parts were left behind.  The remaining raw materials were enough to finish the orders for the rest of the year.  He rejoices in the Lord’s protection and provision!  He shared his testimony at the church’s WeChat group.  One brother responded that, “through this catastrophe, we not only saw God’s amazing power but also the charm of a real spiritual life.”

        We thank God that five other church members’ factories in Isithebe were spared.  In addition, we have been praying for a couple who were infected with COVID-19 two weeks ago.  We thank God for His mercy.  They are now totally recovered.

        Brother Chen (the one we mentioned in our last prayer letter) has two shops in two different malls in the Gauteng province.  When the violence started to spread to his city, he asked for intercessions.  This is his testimony on the day after:  “Last night, my first shop’s mall was attacked, and no one could intervene.  We could only pray for God’s protection.  We felt immense peace after praying.  The next morning, we went in and found that the shops on our right, on our left and across from us were all damaged.  Ours was the only one that was completely untouched – as He had promised in Psalm 91.  Praise be to the Lord!  There is another mall across from the mall that our second shop is located.  That other mall was totally ransacked, but our mall was skipped!”  The Lord saved his shops in marvelous ways!

Thanksgiving and Prayer Requests:

1. Please pray for recovery of law and order in South Africa.
2. Please continue to pray for smooth administration of vaccines and at a quicker pace.
3. Please continue to pray for wisdom for the South Africa officials to set up effective measures against the spread of the virus.
4. Please continue to pray for Sister Wang’s recovery from her surgery; also pray for Brother Wang to know God’s will in his future plans.
5. We thank the Lord for the smooth running of the various Bible studies and worship services as brothers and sisters are encouraging one another with one heart and in love.

In His service,        
Ko-Ta & Christina

親愛的代禱夥伴：

        南非新冠肺炎的疫情仍然嚴峻，過去兩個月，增加了八萬八千人染疫，有三千多人死亡。從疫情開始（去年三月份）至今有一百六十三萬七千人染疫，有五萬五千八百人死亡。今年二月份曾有過第二波。最近一星期染疫人數又上升，每天二至三千人，最令人擔心的是現今篩檢出染疫（陽性）的比率是10％，有醫療專家估計未來幾星期將會進入第三波疫情，那時是六月底七月初，正值南非的冬季，是疫症最容易傳播的季節。美國疾病控制與預防中心將南非的疫情定為最高的第四級（第四級是極高危險疫症地區，要旅客避免前往）。南非政府正在嚴密觀察，並且計劃應對的方案。請您為南非政府執政掌權者禱告，求神給他們智慧應對。

        好消息是南非這星期開始了第二階段疫苗注射，對象為六十歲以上老人。目前已經種了70萬劑疫苗，但僅只是人口的百分之一。政府衛生部的計劃是在明年二月前，完成為四千萬南非人接種，平均每天14萬人。但目前只有122個疫苗注射站，每天僅能為4萬人服務。所以，必須將速度提高數倍，才能達標，這對一向辦事效率不高的政府是個挑戰。請為政府安排接種疫苗的工作代禱。求主恩待南非能得到足夠的疫苗，也賜智慧給負責統籌的人，有效地分配注射疫苗的工作。

        最近教會微信群中有陳弟兄夫婦加入，二月中旬他們在關店後在回家路上遭遇搶劫，經歷神奇妙的保守。歹徒向他們連開數槍後，將受傷的陳弟兄推下車，把受傷的妻子和車子一同劫走。不知為何歹徒迷失了方向，將車駛進鬧市，人群越來越多，最後車子竟然被擁擠的人群堵住。歹徒非常害怕，棄車逃走，太太竟然遇見自己店裡的僱員而獲救。若非如此，這纖弱的太太必因失血過多而生命不保。更奇妙的是陳弟兄僅受了輕度的槍傷，一槍從他手臂穿透，另一槍只刮傷了眼皮，沒有打進眼睛與顱骨。他分享說：「受傷後，第一次見到眼睛的傷口，我的心再也無法剛硬，我知道，如果不是上帝的眷顧，只要再多0.1毫米，我的眼珠必破，再多一公分，我必死無疑。子彈可以九十度的弧度刮傷而不傷及顱骨，唯有主的恩典，我無比的感恩。今生我們願意將自己完全擺上，為主耶穌所用。」神奇妙的拯救他們夫婦，求主繼續引領他們的腳步，給他們機會學習，為主所用。

請為這些事情代禱：

1. 請為南非政府可以得到足量的疫苗，政府官員有智慧的安排，私人企業一同合作，安排接種疫苗代禱。
2. 南非新冠肺炎疫情最近又開始嚴重起來，求主賜智慧給政府官員做好新一輪抗疫工作。
3. 為林滿足姐妹肺部手術後，使用標靶治療代禱，求主保守看顧她的身體。
4. 請為陳弟兄左手和左眼，及陳太太右手的復元代禱，求主醫治使眼睛和手臂功能恢復正常。
5. 感謝主，每週在網上的敬拜和查經都正常運作，不受攪擾，弟兄姐妹都能認真的學習。

您的同工                     
克達、雅麗                
二零二一年五月

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Dear Prayer Partners,

        The COVID-19 infection rate in South Africa has been on the rise this last two months:  with an increase of over 88,000 cases and over 3,000 deaths, bringing the total to 1,630,700 cases and 55,800 fatalities since last March.  South Africa had just recovered from its second wave in March, but recorded cases have been around 2,000 to 3,000 this past week.  The most alarming sign is that positive results are around 10% in recent weeks.  Many medical experts have warned that a third wave is approaching in the coming weeks as South Africa enters its winter season.  The dire situation can be noted from its U.S. Travel Advisory Level 4 classification.Please pray for the government as it is planning its strategies in mitigating the spread of the virus.

        The good news is that South Africa has started its second phase of the vaccine rollout campaign for all adults 60 and over.  Although 700,000 has been inoculated so far, it is only amounted to 1% of its total population.  The plan is to reach 40,000,000 (herd immunity of 67%) by the end of next February with 140,000 daily vaccinations.  However, only 122 vaccination sites are in operation administering about 40,000 jabs per day; the government really needs to speed up.  This is truly a challenge for the inefficient government.  It must concentrate on putting together all available resources to open up more public and private vaccination sites.  Please pray for the government for acquiring adequate vaccines and for wisdom in rolling out its vaccination program.

        A couple just joined one of our WeChat groups.  In mid-February, Brother Chen and his wife were robbed and hijacked on their way home from work.  He was pulled off his car after being shot at a few times.  The robbers drove away with his injured wife.  For some unknown reasons, the car went into a busy area of town, and the robbers lost their way.  They were stuck and decided to abandon the car and fled.  One of Brother Chen’s employees happened to be close by and sent his wife to the hospital.  That definitely saved her life from her severe loss of blood.  The other amazing thing was that Brother Chen was not seriously hurt.  One shot went through his arm to his wife.  The other shot hit just above his left eye, and miraculously made a 90-degree turn out of his face, missing both his eye and his skull.  He said in his testimony, “The first instance I saw my wound, I could no longer be stiff-necked.  I knew if it was not because of God’s mercy, who could be such a skillful snipper.  Who would have imagined such a 90-degree angle shooting that only left a scratch on my eyelid?  If it were 1mm lower, I would have lost my eye; if it were 1 cm deeper, I would have died.  It could only happen by God’s grace!  I am extremely grateful!  I will lay my life before the Lord and live only for Him!”  God is indeed their wonderful Savior!  May He continue to guide them in their Biblical studies and to lead them in His service.

Thanksgiving and Prayer Requests:

1. Please pray for adequate supply of vaccines for South Africa and the smooth administration of shots through the private sector as planned.
2. Please continue to pray for wisdom for the South Africa officials to set up effective measures against the spread of the virus, especially during the coming third wave of infections.
3. Please continue to pray for Sister Lin for her quick recovery from her lung operation as well as her emotional and spiritual wellbeing.
4. Please pray for Brother Chen and his wife’s recovery from their gunshot wounds.
5. We thank the Lord for the smooth running of the various Bible studies and worship services as brothers and sisters are encouraging one another with one heart and in love.

In His service,        
Ko-Ta & Christina