Back on the Road

2011 was a somewhat turbulent year for UCSF as there were several key areas within the ministry that needed to be reinforced (see Keeping Going 2). The Lord saw us through and our ministry continues. We now have a clear vision of where we are going and there is now a good measure of stability that has enabled us to set more far reaching goals. We aim to:

• Set up organizational structures that will help enable the efficient running and continuity of the ministry.

• Set up operational systems and standards that will help bring about transparency and accountability.

• Fully engage with our alumni and other stakeholders through our website, and other social networks.

• Continue to establish relationships with like-minded people and organizations that can help us in our mission, also hoping we can contribute something to them for mutual benefit.

These goals mentioned above are neither exclusive nor conclusive. We pray that the Lord will guide us through each step so that our approach may be wholesome, and glorifying to God.

As things stand now, we had the privilege of sending Willard Mudzimiri and Godwin Chiparaushe to Student Y (a student campus ministry) at the University of Cape Town at the end of January to participate in their orientation week program. It was a time of much exposure and learning and it has helped to add much flesh to our goal to structure our organization. The trip also provided an opportunity to create relationships with like-minded people. We greatly value Student Y's partnership in prayer, guidance and support.

Godwin and Willard also took the opportunity to meet with the UCSF alumni in Cape Town. We have enjoyed much support from them and it was such a great joy that our delegates were able to touch base with them in the flesh. All in all, it was a very rewarding trip which came at just the right time when we needed guidance and support.

The second semester at NUST began in the second week of February when our semester program also set off. In addition to our Friday evening meetings where we are continuing with the book of John which we began last semester, we have started working on establishing mid-week bible studies at various strategic locations including NUST campus. The semester program continues with more bible studies and talks. Our semester camp and later the leavers’ dinner are the two main events still to come before the end of our program.

Your prayers and support are very much needed as we work through all our set goals, most of which are outside of our normal semester routine, meaning added pressure. Continue to look out for updates on our blog and we would love to have your feedback whenever you can mail us or add comments.

The Lord bless you.

Keeping Going 2 - Please stick with us

Following from the Keeping Going post on 09 Sept 2010, herewith the progress that has been made so far:

Phase 1:

• We secured the sub-let agreement with the owner of the Den and have continued to house and disciple students as before. It may be in the interest of the owner and her family to sell the Den in the near future, but we will cross that bridge when we come to it and leave it in the Lord's hands.
• We have strengthened our relationship with the Student Y and have continued to pursue a formal partnership (more below).

Phase 2:

• Willard stepped up to the plate with committing to taking on the position of Ministry Coordinator. There is now a strong staff compliment - all part time, who have partnered with him (more from Willard about this on another post). We are working hard at trying to obtain funding for Willard to remain full-time in this position and therefore make a strong appeal to all our Alumni to support us in this.
• The ministry has resumed operation with Friday night meetings, a few Bible studies, and Camps. Follow the blog updates for news on these.

Phase 3:

• Willard and Godwin travelled to Cape Town to join the Student Y at UCT for their Orientation Week operations. This was extremely fruitful for both parties, and personal relationships were formed or strengthened. The Student Y is currently undergoing structural changes to accommodate growth, and into this it looks promising that UCSF can partner. Please continue to pray for wisdom for both parties in taking this forward.
• We are currently in the process of appointing a board for local accountability. Please pray for wisdom in selecting the board members and defining the role of the board.
• We are still in the process of resuming full operation but are very pleased with the progress so far.

Your Partnership

If you are a UCSF Alumnus, or if you are someone who appreciates the importance of student ministry, please support us - we need your partnership.

You can partner with us by:

• Praying regularly for the items mentioned above.
• Giving financially - see the support page for details.
• Encouraging us by commenting on this page.
• Assisting us with contacting people (especially Alumni) - send them a link and encourage them to visit our blog site.

Lord, Thy Kingdom come!