CHE in Philippi...

I am a part of a CHE training team in Philippi along with Erik Anderson (another American staff member) and three Philippians (Manelisi, Elizabeth, and Lulama). To the right is a picture of myself along with two other members of the training team, Elizabeth and Manelisi.
As a training team, we prepare lessons to discuss with the 24 Philippians who have volunteered to be CHE's in the community. A typical meeting includes tea at the beginning followed by a group update on how home visits have been going. Each time we meet, both a physical lesson and a spiritual lesson are taught. Every CHE has a folder to hold information and take notes on subjects ranging from oral hygiene, depression, HIV/AIDS, nutrition, parasites, God's grace, and conflict resolution. As the CHE's go on home visits throughout the week they have a bank of knowledge to draw from when meeting with people and helping them through various problems.
In American culture it is not as common to knock on neighbors doors just for a chat or a quick visit, but in South African culture (particularly in Philippi) this is common and very welcomed. The CHE program has been a success so far in Philippi and has proven to be a great way to spread valuable information to improve physical, emotional, and spiritual health in the community.

PLEASE PRAY:

This Thursday I am teaching a lesson on alcoholism at our CHE meeting. Please pray that good discussion is generated and that the CHE's feel empowered and equipped to try and tackle this tough issue. I hope that we can brainstorm ways to make a difference in the community by starting a support group for alcoholics or for their families. Alcoholism is a huge problem in Philippi as many are unemployed and hopeless and thus turn to alcohol.

Thank you so much for your prayers and support!