Esibhoweni is a deep rural community in the Eastern Kwa Zulu Natal Division where both strengths and challenges are many—and so is the potential for compassion. In this remote area, children often have to travel long distances to reach their school. Because transport is limited, many of them arrive up to an hour before the school day even begins.
During this waiting period, the winter cold can be especially harsh. With about 80% of the children coming from disadvantaged homes, The Salvation Army recognised an opportunity to respond in love and action. Esibhoweni Corps, under the leadership of Lieutenants Lwazi and Ntobeko Hlengwa, reached out to the local primary school —providing sandwiches and warm tea to help the children start their day with something nourishing, both for their bodies and their spirits.
Lieutenant Lwazi Hlengwa also shared a devotion with the children, focusing on the words of Jesus in Matthew 22:39: “Love your neighbour as yourself.” He gently encouraged the children to begin by loving themselves—to see their own worth — and then in turn to show love and kindness to others.
This outreach at Esibhoweni Primary School is an important reminder that the Gospel is both preached and practised. As we step into the winter season, may we continue to embrace opportunities to serve communities across the Territory with nourishment and God’s Word—because practical love always matters.
