Two weeks in Citrusdal—and I’m still trying to find the words to describe all that God did. What began as a simple mission trip quickly became a tapestry of transformation, hope, and divine timing.
Our theme, “making all things new,” wasn’t just a slogan—it was a reality we witnessed in every corner of the town. One of the most moving moments for me was seeing learners at Langvlei singing and dancing to “Vir My” before we even arrived. That song had somehow reached them, and it felt like God had gone ahead of us.
Langvlei’s story is one I’ll never forget. The school was repainted for the first time ever, with donations pouring in for paint and fencing. Teachers shared how they’d longed for this change—and our visit became the spark that set into motion the tangible change they needed.
Week two brought even more firsts. We welcomed Octavia from Parkwood on her very first mission trip. Her words still echo in my heart: “I wanted to be the very person that the Message has been for me.” That’s the kind of transformation we pray for when working with young people across our organisation.
We hosted our first-ever Prayer Gathering in Truterpark, declaring life-giving scriptures over Citrusdal. One verse stood out: “Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation…” (2 Corinthians 5:17). Later, we learned that others outside Citrusdal had been praying at the same time, sharing Isaiah 41:17–20 with us—a beautiful confirmation that God is moving in ways seen and unseen.
Another highlight was meeting Marieka in Riverview, whose community project Ubutu radiates joy and purpose. She told us how a youth concert a year ago changed their lives—and how they’d been praying for our team to visit ever since. What a privilege to be part of that answered prayer.
As we wrapped up, the team in Citrusdal were inspired to dream even more—planning a Christmas Market and monthly prayer gatherings.
As we packed up and headed home, one thing is clear: the work in Citrusdal is far from over. Year after year, we return to find new doors opening, deeper relationships forming, and fresh opportunities to serve. What began as a single mission has grown into a movement—one that continues to flourish as God makes all things new, again and again.
We’d like to say a massive thank you to Hebron Community Projects & The Mouton Foundation for their everlasting partnership and support. We are better because we are together!
Written by Taryn Noah
