Return to the HomepageAfter two years of successful ministry the Jackson's Ridge Children's Ministries Training Center is officially "dedicated" to the work of the Lord.
It looked like Christmas in a country that places absolutely no emphasis on the Christmas holiday. South Africans go on a month long vacation beginning around December 15. With the help of Wayne and Delight Peercy (who are doing a wonderful job!) Sonja decorated Jackson's Ridge for the Christmas season. Christmas trees, lights, garland, animated figures, candy canes, giant manger scene and even the star in the East, perched atop a 30 foot evergreen tree. Those of you who know Sonja can imagine the elaborate detail of the festivities.
A small group of about 50 friends attended the open house and dedication service which took place on December 3. Rev. Elijah Nkibende, president of the Southern Africa School of Theology gave special greetings and thanks for the role we had played in beginning a children's ministries program at the Bible school. Rev. Jeremiah Motsatse, the general superintendent of the South African International Assemblies of God also shared greetings and expressed thanks for the way we had placed a high priority on the reproduction of African children's ministers. Then the speaker came forward and it was none other than my brother Don, who just happens to be the Africa Field Director for the Division of Foreign Missions. But even among all these very important people, the best was yet to come.
My 85 year old father, Cecil, who is fighting a battle with cancer stood to his feet and slowly walked to the microphone to pray the dedication prayer over Jackson's Ridge. This is the first time all three Corbin's have ever been in Africa together and it will long be remembered as a highlight in our ministry.
This year Jackson's Ridge has been host to several training conferences, offering in-depth teaching on children's ministries which is simply not available anywhere else in South Africa. Work will soon begin on the kids camp bath houses. Renovations are underway on a large garage which is being converted into a lecture hall. Our only MAPS team (we could use many more), a group of Royal Rangers from Illinois will arrive in May to help us build. Jackson's Ridge is being developed and is meeting a desperate need! The children of Africa "thank you" for investing your finances and your prayers into Jackson's Ridge.
News Flash. We are closing a deal now to purchase a house and 12 acre property adjoining Jackson's Ridge. This 3 bedroom home will be used for staff housing for the Peercy's (they have been living in the training center) and future staff in the years to come. Also for sale is another 10 acres of land with no buildings which also adjoins our property. We are negotiating now to acquire this parcel as well. This additional 22 acres of land will give us a total of 33 acres and will greatly enhance our ability to organize a first rate children's discipleship camp and allow adequate space for development of future ministries to children as we approach year 2000. First Assembly of God in Lafayette, Indiana has provided most of the needed funding for this necessary expansion. We are only $15,000 short! If you feel God is directing you to be a part of this exciting ministry opportunity, please send your donations to the Division of Foreign of Foreign Missions, 1445 Boonville Ave, Springfield, MO 65803. Designate your gift for Ed Corbin account #2339646, project #4031. A gift of any size is desperately needed and will be highly appreciated. Thanks for caring for Africa's Children!!!
Return to the Homepage