Positive Vibes All Over

Perhaps it is an overstatement to say that Mukhanyo’s staff had a feeling of euphoria after three days of reporting and brainstorming together at the end of September. But clearly there were feelings of mutual joy and thankfulness for what our gracious Lord has made possible at Mukhanyo during the past few years, despite the highly abnormal circumstances.

The Mukhanyo team came together this year for three days of strategic planning. At the Staff Vision Day, twenty people reported on various ministry focus areas, including updates on the five centres/campuses, the various programmes and departments, as well as on finances, administration, library/media support, IT services, communication and marketing, upgrading of study guides and DVDs, upgraded staff policies, extra-mural conferences, etc.

The second day had eight workshops in which various staff reflected on Mukhanyo’s strong and weak points, including opportunities and threats for the ministry. We gave thanks together for how God has blessed the organisation and we are amazed at the many opportunities He has given Mukhanyo for the road ahead. Just to mention a few:

• The Mukhanyo staff have a vibe of optimism and unity, more than ever before.
• The number of Bible distance learning groups have grown in quality and number, and have the capacity to grow much further in the next few years.
• The five regional centres are now established, of which three have accredited campus status, with the capacity to double the number of contact students, given their facilities and lecturers.
• Much has been done in what can be called “brand building” and it seems that the marketing activities in the past year are not without results; the full effect still has to be seen.
• Mukhanyo’s programmes are now recognised as having a high academic standard and Reformed content.
• Mukhanyo’s finances are stable and strong, more so than in its whole history.

All this does not say there are no challenges or threats. It is always a challenge to fill vacancies with godly and gifted people. Other challenges include continuing with distance classes and starting new groups, including the need for more head office support. Political and social instability and poverty are threats, as seen for example during the recent unrest and looting, especially in KwaZulu-Natal. International donors have been faithful and loyal, but contributions from South Africa must be increased and will need more attention. Mukhanyo realises that South African churches are struggling with finances, and poverty and unemployment keep on increasing.

The conclusion of this all is still very positive, according to Dr Brian De Vries: “Mukhanyo is called to continue investing these God-given opportunities – and there are many – as we continue to equip church leaders and others Christians for service in Africa. We can trust God to continue to provide for the college as long as we follow His Word and seek His kingdom”.