LETTER FROM JOHN

Dear FMI Family

2023 has come and gone, and with it the many ups and downs that we have all had to navigate. By the grace of God we are still standing strong and remain confident that we will see the goodness of God in the land of the living!

As we look back on the year, we see the faithfulness of the Faithful One seasoning our days. Against the backdrop of significant levels of political and economic and social pressures in our nations, the provision of the Lord has been all the more humbling and miraculous.

Reports of outstanding leadership conferences in Zimbabwe and Zambia in early December give us tremendous encouragement for the year ahead. The impetus for Church planting from the Spring Conference is gaining even more momentum. Hallelujah!

The Moving On Up youth event was a huge success with nearly double the number of attendees from last year. See the report below.

During this time, at the end of the year, as you dream with God for 2024, please make an opportunity to diarize the FMI dates for next year.

May Emmanuel - God with us - be ever more real in our lives.
 

For the King and His Kingdom

John Crumpton

REPORTS

Northern Regional Relating Leaders

Esperanza

November 2023

Once again, our time of gathering was one of connecting and encouragement. About 35 men enjoyed wonderful times in the Presence of God, prophetic words and sharing in the scriptures to encourage us for a new season of expectant church growth and discipleship.

We had wonderful times of fellowship connecting with one another and thanks to the ladies for 5-star food for the week. Thank you to each person involved in the organisation of this time together.

Be blessed as we continue trusting God together for a new season.
 

Coenraad Dormehl

It was a special event - as always. The presence of the Holy Spirit was special and there was a deep touch of the Spirit in each of us personally. The message of the importance of the presence of the Spirit and the heart of discipleship was very good. Every speaker did very well and the fellowship was excellent. I'm really privileged and blessed to be part of this family of God.
 

Jan Hugo

It was good to make new friends and re-connect with old friends at Esperanza in November after being away for so many years. I enjoyed the times of fellowship, connection and sharing around the BRAAI fires and meal times.

I was personally challenged by a few thoughts during our time together:

  •  Go back to your roots - catch the heartbeat of how your church started.
  •  Recalibrate your call.
  •  There is a call and challenge to make disciples, but are we “able” to?
  •  What is Jesus saying to us as Foundation Ministries International?
  •  Plunder will be part of the next wave of the spirit - what will that look like?
  •  What would you do if you were not afraid?
  •  What gift or talent are you hiding?
  •  “Arise, shine, for your light has come, and the glory of the Lord rises upon you.“ Isaiah‬ ‭60‬:‭1‬ ‭

It was encouraging to see how God ministered to us and how the Holy Spirit touched individual lives.

We serve an awesome God!

Chris Perks

Moving On Up Youth Camp

Breakthru Life Church, Johannesburg

7 - 10 December 2023

Moving On Up 2023, the annual FMI Youth Conference, was a remarkable event that surpassed expectations and left an indelible mark on the lives of those who attended. Hosted by Breakthru Life Church, on the 7th to the 10th of December, this conference brought together a growing number of young people eager to experience the transformative power of the Love of God. 

Attendance and Growth: 

In comparison to the previous year, Moving On Up 2023 experienced significant growth, with registrations increasing from 120 in 2022 to an impressive 244 in 2023. This surge in attendance reflects the widespread hunger for revival in the youth of our nation. The anticipation and enthusiasm surrounding this event is a signal indicating the growing influence and impact of Moving on Up within the FMI youth community.

Testimonies of Transformation: 

The heart of Moving On Up lies in providing a platform for spiritual encounters, and this year was no exception. We opened the conference with the gospel message where more than 30 youth responded by choosing to follow Christ. Additionally, a considerable number of teens rededicated themselves to the Lord, affirming their commitment to a life of purpose in Christ. On the last evening we had a fire tunnel with the aim of providing an opportunity for impartation. Their hunger for what the Lord was doing was displayed in their response to in the fire tunnel - many going through it more than once or twice. 

Numerous testimonies emerged, attesting to the powerful ways in which God touched the lives of the participating teenagers. Many kids and parents shared stories of profound encounters such as freedom from demonic oppression, baptism in the Holy Spirit, newly found boldness to worship freely and to testify of the Lords Goodness. These changes affirm the conference's role in fostering spiritual growth and connection amongst the youth in the FMI family.

Impact on Youth Groups: 

The ripple effects of Moving On Up 2023 are expected to be far-reaching, as the newfound vigour and confidence in the Lord among the 244 participants are anticipated to light up youth groups across all FMI churches in South Africa. The conference continues to play a pivotal role in rejuvenating the spiritual atmosphere within these groups, inspiring a deeper commitment to Christ and His community.

And let's not forget the tons of fun that was had during our sporting and team building activities! With our teams going head-to-head to claim the 'bragging rights' for the year, and returning campers haivng sharpened their skills since our last camp, these times were filled with energy and camaraderie!

Acknowledgments: 

The success of Moving On Up 2023 would not have been possible without the dedicated efforts of Breakthru Life Church and their administrative team. Their commitment to hosting an incredible youth conference has undoubtedly left a lasting impact on the lives of those in attendance. 

Special appreciation is extended to all the youth leaders who invested their time, energy, and resources to make Moving On Up 2023 a reality. Their invaluable contributions have not only facilitated the smooth execution of the event but have also played a crucial role in advancing the kingdom of God. 

As we reflect on the triumphs of Moving On Up 2023, we look forward with anticipation to the continued growth and influence of this annual Youth Conference.  
 
Here's to the next Moving On Up, where we expect even greater manifestations of God's grace and transformation in the lives of young people across South Africa. 

Moses Rahlogo