June 2009: Shine Where You Are
June 2009 Bulletin Insert Format [PDF]Junio 2009 en español
Do all things without grumbling or questioning, that you may be blameless and innocent, children of God without blemish in the midst of a crooked and perverse generation, among whom you shine as lights in the world… Philippians 2: 14,15
The atmosphere was vibrant during the celebration of 140 years at Inanda Seminary in Durban South Africa. Headmaster, Mrs. JT Tate felt the school was brilliantly showcased for the glory of God and the work of Jesus. Inanda Seminary was founded in 1869 by the American Board of Missions (ABM) as the first secondary Christian school for black girls in Durban. For 140 years Inanda Seminary has maintained the Christian values and African ethos it was founded upon. It believes in developing and growing the whole child: spiritually, intellectually, socially and physically. Inanda provides a solid grounding for its students and to date has graduated more than 8000 young women, many of whom have become the core of black female leadership in South Africa. During the Apartheid years, Inanda Seminary continued to educate and motivate black females to rise up against oppression and racism. This continues today in the current climate of crime, violence and HIV and AIDS where infection is highest among women. Inanda Seminary is a school of the United Congregational Church of Southern Africa (UCCSA), and a partner of Global Ministries. Mrs. Tate reported that students and staff had a rosy glow about them for days reflecting the glow of the anniversary celebration.
We share the inspiration offered to us by Inanda Seminary as they are part of the wider church community and a part of the plan that God clearly has for our world.
Revs. Susan Valiquette and Scott Couper are missionaries to South Africa under the United Congregational Church of Southern Africa (UCCSA). Susan works at Inanda Seminary and serves as chaplain. Scott serves as a local pastor and coordinates the HIV/AIDS Desk for the UCCSA KwaZulu Natal region.