roomin' with rach: Soweto World Cup

This is the third and final soccer tournament for Zach and Philani. See second tournament here. Four schools came out with support from family and friends... Mayibuye, Obed Messiane, Dr. Mary and Bonamelo. It was a fun day of soccer matches with a closing ceremony including a Bible story and trophies.

Philani led Mayibuye and Bonamelo around the field to the center line for the championship match. Philani hopes to start a soccer league in the local townships and continue what has been started. This project would give boys from townships an opportunity to develop their soccer skills as well as hear the good news of Jesus! Pray for Philani to be able to get support from the government or sponsors in order to provide a soccer development project in Soweto.

Mayibuye took 1st place after leading in penalties.

Closing ceremony.

I love the story behind the picture... you can see two different cultural things. Firstly, the boys do not have much meaning they do not have their own soccer clothes or cleats. You will find children playing in their school uniform with their school shoes (the black ones). Secondly, they are very giving and share with one another. When this boy was told he would be subbing in he ran to borrow cleats from another boy.

Remember to be thankful for what you have. Remember to give and share with those in need.

I'm upset that we will not be working with these boys anymore. But I know I will see some of them around Snake Park as a few boys have visited Faith Baptist Church. Pray these boys would understand of the Father's love for them and trust in Him alone. Pray that God would grow the seeds that were planted in their hearts over the past year and a half.

I (Paul) planted, Apollos watered, but God gave the growth. So neither he who plants nor he who waters is anything, but only God who gives the growth. 1 Corinthians 3:6-7

I love the faces of children.