Written by Beatriz Lima

 

An OMer’s mission trip to South Africa offers a glimpse of the bigger story we’re all invited into, a story of faith that moves toward service.

When OM’s HR Lead Paul Bell, along with his wife Bogusia and a further team of volunteers, boarded the flight to South Africa this October, he carried with him familiar anticipation - the kind that comes from knowing God has opened yet another door. Not only did God supply an opportunity for him to serve where he felt led, but He also miraculously provided a visa for Bogusia and exceptional permission from her employer to work abroad - both which came just days before leaving!

Last year, Paul had joined a short-term outreach with OM Poland, serving war refugees from Ukraine. That experience stirred something deeper: a readiness to say yes to God’s call wherever the need was greatest. When he learned about Tshega Christian Mission (TCM) in South Africa, the connection was instant. “I wasn’t looking for the next mission trip,” Paul reflected, “but for where I could serve others”. TCM’s CEO, Ellanie van Royan, spoke via live video at an awareness and fundraising evening at the Quinta (OM UK’s headquarters) earlier in the year, strengthening the connection between OMers and their mission.

During Paul’s 2-week short-term outreach with TCM, he met a community whose resilience was inspiring. Through the regular updates he shared along the way, one thing remained constant: gratitude - for what God was doing, and for those who made this journey possible. Here is an overview of his experience. 

 

Days 1 and 2: Arrival and First Impressions

After long flights and six hours on the road, the first weekend brought much-needed rest and time to connect. The beauty of Limpopo, its wildlife, open skies and vibrant culture, is a backdrop to deeper conversations about what it means to serve with humility and openness. The team arrived just after TCM’s annual Open Day, a celebration of the school’s work and an important moment for local families to catch sight of the hope that the mission brings.

TCM also hosted a women’s healing event that Sunday, where Ellanie van Royen shared boldly about the hope found in Jesus.

 

Days 4 to 6: Back to School

Monday began early with staff prayers, as 670 children gathered for a new week of learning. The scale of the school surprised the visiting team of volunteers, as did the stories of perseverance behind it: faithful teachers, limited government funding, and ongoing efforts to keep Jesus at the centre of both education and community outreach. 

The team rotated across classrooms, supporting English lessons, reading groups and revision sessions. Other volunteers spent time with younger children needing encouragement. A monthly gathering called Hope Fellowship welcomed parents from the Feeding Scheme, some of the region’s most vulnerable families, to hear Scripture, learn budgeting skills and share a meal. A dramatic retelling of the story of Mary Magdalene opened opportunities for prayer and meaningful conversation.

 

Days 7 to 9: Community and Creativity

As the week progressed, the volunteers found themselves increasingly woven into daily life:

• Attending a singing assembly where children learned that “God knows everything about us”,

• Visiting the Old Age Centre for games, songs and conversations,

• Carrying out practical tasks around the school,

• Being involved in a women’s skills workshop where sewing provides both income and confidence.

 

Days 10 to 12: New Connections and An Unexpected Ministry

Thunderstorms and power cuts added layers of challenge, but there was still much to give thanks for. The outreach visits to local families were among the most impactful moments. In two homes, volunteers listened to stories of hardship, perseverance and answered prayers. 

On Tuesday, Paul joined volunteer sports teacher George in introducing rugby to local children. In fact, sports are a big part of the mission as TCM is the only local school offering structured physical activities. The children’s enthusiasm whilst learning rugby for the first time was overwhelming. During Paul’s time at TCM, he saw cricket coaching taking off, and volleyball quickly becoming a favourite among the older students.

 

Days 13 and 14: Discipleship and Vision for the Future

One evening, the team met with Ellanie and two senior leaders, hearing the heartbeat of TCM’s mission: 

• Reaching communities where superstition still holds influence,

• Expanding adult skills training in a context with 94% unemployment,

• Developing a medical clinic,

• Growing educational provision to meet rising demand,

• Building discipleship through sport, creativity and consistent presence.

Volunteers also learned of a looming challenge: a sudden government cut to TCM’s annual £90k funding. In the months following their visit, Ellanie will travel to Europe to seek partners who can sustain the mission’s vision. 

 

Day 15: Farewells and Seeds for the Future

The final day at the school brought rain, but also joy. The Reading Club, which Paul and the team had helped with throughout the week, met one last time. Grade 7 students, preparing for exams and the transition to high school, shared their appreciation with volunteers. The TCM choir sang a heartfelt farewell; and the team played “The Blessing”, a song that marked both weddings and mission moments.

Before leaving, volunteers purchased Basadi (“Woman’s”) sewing-project products to sell in the UK in order to raise funds to empower local women through craftsmanship and income-generation. 

Some volunteers even extended their stay by three weeks, a testament to how quickly deep relationships formed, and how this short-term outreach has truly been an inspiration. The story of Tshega Christian Mission is ongoing and it is shaped by ordinary people who choose to say yes to God’s call.

 
Are you interested in joining a short-term outreach and saying “yes” to God’s call? Find out more here.