LATEST NEWS
THE CONTEXT
According to the CIA's 2019 estimate, South Africa ranked number one in HIV/AIDS related deaths, with about 72,000. South Africa also has the highest reported number of people living with HIV/AIDS, about 7.5 million.
Much of this is related to the Animistic practices that are common among South African tribes.
Because of their commitment to their Animistic witchcraft religious practices, they are widely accepting of the message of Christianity, but few find the courage to renounce Animism all together and confess Jesus as the one and only Lord, particularly if that message comes from a person outside their tribe.
Since the message of the Gospel is exponentially more powerful coming from a fellow member of their tribe, the testimony of Zulu believers is the ideal way to share the Gospel.
WHAT YOUR SUPPORT DOES
Proclaim the Gospel
Your support of Kelly and Cherise Smith allows them to live in KwaZulu Natal, South Africa, where they help Zulu believers put the Gospel message before the Zulu in their community - in the Zulu language - as often as possible. This is done through various outreaches as doors are open and resources are provided.
Equip Zulu Believers for Ministry
Kelly works with young Zulu men, training them to become Biblical leaders and pastors through a seminary he helped start. The Smiths are involved with the local Zulu church in their village, providing support and encouragement.
Community Outreach and Education
Your support of the Smiths means they can live and serve in KwaZulu Natal and are available to be involved in educational programs and outreaches.
HISTORY
Cherise is a South African national who came to America, where she met Kelly. The Lord called them to live among and minister to the people of the Zulu tribe in KwaZulu Natal, South Africa and they have been doing so since 2006.
The Smiths established 7 Rivers Farm, where they lived outside of Durban, South Africa until 2021.
The farm provides housing for the local Zulu pastor, as well as a ministry base for the Smith's daughter, Fifi. It was named for the 7 times you need to cross the river to get from Durban to the farm.
The farm also provides the 7 Rivers team with resources with which to reach and bless the community with, such as the Chwabasi seeds that young women from the community can make beads with to craft jewelry for a bit of income, and the Moringa trees whose seeds yield a powder that is beneficial to many locals who struggle with health challenges such as diabetes and HIV/AIDS.
