Christmas is just around the corner
Students formed a beautiful choir and presented their songs and dance at a church bazaar last week, impressing the audience and keeping African Hope's name known to the community.
On the 15th of December we will have a big Christmas celebration where the students who prepare presentations will sing and dance for the whole student body, as well as to their parents and to our volunteers.
God's hand is on this school
The running of this place is a miracle. Although we face many challenges (i.e. discipline issues in the classrooms, lack of resources in the way of textbooks and other supplies, as well as financial issues just to name a few) we truly thank God for His provision. School hours are long (7:15 am to 6:00 pm), with high stress and often times of chaos, but it is encouraging to meet regularly as a team to pray (for each other, for students, volunteers and for the needs of the school). In one team meeting a teacher recently shared a testimony expressing what a privilege he felt it was to work here and to serve the students. Whatever they have or don't have, many come to school with a high five, a hand shake and a smile on their face, and just need some love and encouragement to help them along in their studies.
Students line up at the beginning of each day according to class. They get a bit of exercise to warm them up for the day, as well as a spiritual message. It's a good opportunity to meet as a whole school community. Staff and students have the opportunity to be involved.
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Banking
For over 3 months now we have struggled with no bank account. The bank closed our account, where we have had money sent through the church. The church has been trying to open a new bank account for us ever since. Here is yet another sign of God's faithfulness, that in the midst of all these blockages and obstacles, we have seen funds coming in through unexpected visitors, with a little money here and there, enough to keep the school running. We don’t know where the money will come next month, but we know God will provide in His perfect time, and that gives us HOPE and CONFIDENCE that He will continue to make a way where there seems to be no way! Why do we worry, when we can confidently trust in God’s Power, Authority and Provision! We sense the presence of the Lord in so many practical ways each and every day, through the volunteers who come to serve, through the money that miraculously arrives just in time, through His continuous provision. It truly is a privilege to serve on this International team, with people who are dedicated to providing the best education we can give to the students at African Hope.
Now is the time, particularly for foreign sponsors, to consider donating, due to the favourable exchange rate. Your money will go twice as far, and you can be sure that your money will go towards the development of resources, property and equipment in the classroom.
Highlights and Extra-Curricular Events
* Dragon Boat Racing - Some of our students had the thrill of being involved in the build up of the inaugural Chinese Dragon Boat Races on the Nile, which was held on the 1st of October. The Chinese community invited a team from African Hope to join in the event.
* Circus - Secondary school children were invited to attend a one night circus event, which was very entertaining.
* Tag Rugby Sports Events - Each Monday for the last two months our Grade 3 students were invited to travel across Cairo to go to an International School to play tag rugby, which they enjoyed. We hope for more opportunities like this in the future.
* Adult Literacy Classes - 14 adults signed up for Monday evening adult literacy classes (parents and friends of school community). The aim is to encourage parent/child and child/parent support of each other, through language development.
* Fundraising Events - Selling of 2017 Calendars has been very popular in the past, and continues to be a practical item for many people in the community. Thanks to all those who have purchased calendars, which supports the school. We also had an opportunity to sell hot chocolate and baked goods during several Christmas performances conducted at our partner church last weekend.
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