Mark and Cindi Parris
Durbanville, South Africa
What has God done in your ministry this year?
Made us a Visible Presence - After many years of meeting in a school, the Lord has made it possible for us to build our own church building. Our heart’s desire is to see our community reached with the gospel. The neighbors have been curious about this new structure going up, especially seeing the pizza oven. We are known as the “Pizza Church.”
We want to show unbelievers who are skeptical about church and Christianity that Jesus has come to give life abundantly. We want them to experience the love of God as they are invited to eat with us.
Some of our best gospel conversations take place over meals. It seemed to work for Jesus. Our prayer is that this new building will be filled up with people who don’t yet know Jesus.
We can now be a visible presence in the community as we seek to break the stereotypes of empty religion and rather show the power of God. Our official opening is December 4th. What a thrill!
Mark Parris in front of the pizza oven.
Durbanville Community Church's newest means of reaching their neighbors!
Leading by Example Despite Rejection - Mabuti and Sipho are two men that I work with who live and minister in townships. They have both told me that unless God changes the hearts of the people, they will still live in fear of the ancestors.
Unfortunately, many Africans who have professed faith in Christ, still practice ancestor worship.
We are working hard to proclaim the clear gospel of Jesus Christ that sets people free and gives them true inner peace.
The young boys and girls struggle to give up their pagan religious practices because they feel they are dishonoring their parents. Only the Spirit of God can give them faith and boldness to turn away from their false gods.
Mabuti is leading by example. Most of his village has rejected him because he has refused to participate in the pagan rituals. “Jesus is my Lord,” he says, “not the ancestors.”
Mabuti is leading by example in Stone Hill.
What would you like ITMI supporters to know?
We are called by God to serve in our context. It is a privilege to do this full time. Thank you for being generous towards the kingdom of God and making this possible.
Thank you for serving with us and enabling us to focus on ministry. May you know the deep joy of the Lord as you celebrate the birth of our Lord!
About the Authors
Summer Kelley is a writer and follower of Jesus living in Phoenix, Arizona with her husband and three kids. She’s had the honor and privilege of telling ITMI’s stories since 2006. Summer loves reading, the outdoors and Coca-Cola Classic.
Steve Evers has advocated for and served the ITMI partners as ITMI Director since 2001. Approximately once a year, Steve visits with ITMI partners in their countries and brings stories back to encourage supporters. Steve enjoys photography and mechanics, (both hobbies that have greatly benefited ITMI partners!) Prior to becoming ITMI's Director, Steve served on the Board of Directors for 4 years. Steve lives in Arizona with his wife, Darlene.