Christmas Time in Johannesburg!

As many of you have been following us on Facebook or even have seen us recently in person, you may be well aware of the really weird, but overall good last few months.

At the moment we are in a season of waiting, growing, and new adventures.

As you know, we were in the US during July and August. During the time we were away, there was a security issue with our house in Lesotho and it made us seriously consider transitioning out of Lesotho. We were already in a good position to transition as two ladies had stepped up to run the course for us anytime we decided to leave.

After we returned back to Lesotho in early September, there was another security and safety issue in which we truly believed it was time to go. By the first week of October our stuff was packed and we were on our way back to Johannesburg. We are still in contact with the ladies who are now managing the business courses and will continue to visit a few times a year. We will help facilitate a small section of the classes along with several other facilitators.

Since moving back, Piet has been busy with new business ventures and opportunities. He is focusing very heavily on business mentoring especially with high schoolers. Currently, he and a partner are training and recruiting girls and guys either just out of school or in grade 12. These young people are learning hands on business skills in four types of businesses and sales depending on their preference.

Business Mentorship

We will also be following up with a few other leads in ministry and volunteering opportunities in the
New Year. One thing that is slightly difficult about ministry during this time of year is that the schools have closed and will only open again the first week of January and many businesses are closing very soon as well. It is quite challenging to start new projects at the moment, but we are confident that we will be quite busy in January!

Birthday Boy!

You may have also seen that myself (Leah) and the kids had to make an unexpected visit to California a few weeks ago to renew my SA visa. I’m happy to report that it was an extremely quick process and everything went very smoothly. I’m now able to apply for my permanent residency, which has been a long awaited process!

We celebrated Thanksgiving with some dear and cherished friends here in Johannesburg. Every year I am very intentional about celebrating my favorite holiday with people that have become our family

here.

Summertime Carols by Candlelight

We are REALLY enjoying the Christmas season. Now that Harmony is almost three, the wonder and excitement of the Christmas season and the birth of Christ is evident. We pray that you experience it too in the coming weeks!!

Loving Africa,

The Bakers Four