Calitzdorop Couple Reach Out

To all around them.

By WN Staff

The Vanwyksdorp, South Africa, congregation of the Worldwide Church of God, pastored by John Mathieson, has been highly active in reaching out to the local communities, with Ray and Lyn Holdt   (left) taking on the lion's share.

In 2003 Lyn organized a Christmas party for 200 underpriveleged children of Bergsig, a nearby township. Ray and Lyn also rescued the Calitzdorp soup kitchen from fading into obscurity. The feeding programme is aimed at needy children up to the age of seven, mothers with babies and the elderly folk of the town. At present there are 48 volunteers involved in making soup on a regular basis.

Lyn has also played a major role in the “collect-a-can” project. This began with the collection and recycling of cans, but has grown to include bottles and cardboard. All proceeds go the Vygieshof Home for the Aged.

Last but not least, Ray and Lyn have a heart for the animals in distress. The Karoo Animal Protection Society [KAPS] now operates in Calitzdorp and is run by a group of volunteers including Ray and Lyn. Their aim is to rescue dogs, puppies, cats and kittens from abuse, cruelty and starvation and to offer shelter to abandoned animals. A large part of their work is educating on basic care for their animals, and is done mainly in the poverty-stricken areas.

We are reminded of Jesus' words to his disciples: “If anyone wants to be first, he must be the very last, the servant of all (Mark 9:35).” Ray and Lyn truly have a gift of caring. May God bless them as they reach out to all around them.                            

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