This month looked a little different. Over the past few weeks, our Executive Team had the privilege of travelling to the UK for The Message Global Leaders Conference and Vision Night. It was a powerful time of connection, encouragement, and shared vision as leaders from across our movement gathered to celebrate what God is doing and to dream together about what lies ahead.
One of the things that struck me most was being reminded that while our work here in South Africa is deeply rooted in local communities, we are part of something much bigger. We belong to a global family of ministries, united by the same mission: reaching young people with the good news of Jesus.
This month, rather than focusing only on our local stories, we wanted to introduce you to some of our global Message family. Across multiple countries and cultures, incredible work is taking place every day as teams faithfully serve young people, build communities, and share hope where it is needed most.
As you read through the highlights that follow, my prayer is that you would be encouraged by the impact being made around the world and inspired by the knowledge that your partnership forms part of this much bigger story. Together, we are seeing lives transformed, communities strengthened, and God’s Kingdom advanced across nations.
Here is a spotlight on three nations from our wider Message Family!
Message Brazil
Look what Message Brazil is up to in Santa Marta, Rio de Janeiro.At the heart of the community sits Casa Eden, a place where children and young people are welcomed, encouraged, and supported each week through rap, music production, library sessions, games, and English classes led by the Eden team and volunteers. More than just a building, Casa Eden is a place of refuge where families, children, and volunteers come together to learn, grow, and experience hope.
Through meaningful relationships and consistent support, lives are being impacted and communities strengthened.We’re inspired by what God is doing through this space and the dedication of those who serve there. As Casa Eden continues to grow, the team are excited to see even more opportunities created for young people and families to flourish.
Message UK
From our Message UK family, Bobby, whose life was marked by crime, addiction, and repeated prison sentences from a young age. After years of searching for acceptance and purpose, a connection with the Community Grocery introduced him to a church community where he encountered the love of Jesus in a life-changing way.
Today, Bobby’s story is one of transformation, hope, and restoration as he uses his experiences to encourage others that no one is beyond God’s reach and that every life can be turned around.
Message Germany
This year, the Message Germany team had the privilege of joining Hope Camp in Annaberg, where 53 children and young people explored their creativity through music, dance, theatre, percussion, and rap while discovering an important truth: their value is not defined by achievements, but by being uniquely created and deeply loved by God.
Thank you for standing with us through your prayers, generosity, and encouragement. Together, we’re seeing lives changed and hope restored across many lives in South Africa and beyond. Thank you for being part of the journey,
All my love, Shaun Pretorius
Chief Executive Officer
