Stories of Hope: A Night of Gospel Light Across God’s Global Kingdom

Stories of Hope: A Night of Gospel Light Across God’s Global Kingdom

On a Tuesday evening, November 18, the fellowship hall at Vineland Free Reformed Church was alive with warmth and anticipation. Chairs filled quickly, voices mingled, and the aroma of apple cider drifted through the air as people gathered for a storytelling experience. The theme was simple yet profound: Stories of Hope.  

This moment was a celebration - a chance to pause and listen to how God’s light is shining throughout the world, transforming lives and communities through Christ-centred education. From Zambia to Indonesia, from Rwanda to the Dominican Republic, the stories shared reminded us that the Gospel is not bound by borders. It moves through classrooms, across dusty roads, and into hearts longing for hope. 

An Evening of Voices and Vision 

Executive Director Phil Beck opened the evening with a reflection on transformative hope.  He then passed the mic to Ray and Marlene Hendriks, who invited us into their journey as retired educators turned Learning Leaders with EduDeo. Their reflections on Rwanda- “the land of a thousand hills, which quickly became the land of a thousand smiles”- set the tone for what was to come: stories of resilience, vision, and God’s unmistakable presence. 

Next came Lydia Schulenberg-VanDam, whose life of service has taken her from supporting individuals with special needs to serving on Co-Impact trips in the Dominican Republic. Her words carried the weight of experience and the joy of seeing God at work in places far from home.  She saw the significant impact that Christ-centred education can have.   

“This is one of the ways people can rise out of poverty, be transformed as a person, and then also provide transformation for the community. Is this not the hope we all want - for us here in Canada, but also for those who live in countries around the world?” 

Michael Zwiep followed, bringing a local connection to a global mission. A former EduDeo staff member now serving in government, Michael spoke of his time in Zambia with the Vineland Co-Impact team.  Michael reflected on an experience of thinking he was left behind when a vehicle departed and how that prompted him to reflect on the Gospel witness he received from Zambians. 

And then, Reverend Nehemia Mkwayi, EduDeo’s Southern Africa Ministry Coordinator. His presence was a gift - a living testimony to the impact of Christ-centred education. “Have you ever wondered: Why me?” he began, drawing us into his childhood in Chasefu, where poverty silenced many dreams. His story was not just about hardship; it was about grace, perseverance, and the power of education rooted in Christ. “Every bursary you support,” he reminded us, “is not just education—it is dignity, hope, and faith.” 

More Than Stories—A Shared Mission 

As each voice spoke, a common theme emerged: transformation through education. These were not abstract ideas or distant projects. They were real lives - children walking miles to school in Zambia, communities in Indonesia building classrooms from tree branches and tin, Rwandan leaders dreaming of a future where genocide is never repeated because hearts and minds are shaped by Christ. 

The atmosphere in the room was electric - not with urgency, but with possibility. You could feel it in the quiet moments after a story ended, in the nods of understanding, in the whispered prayers. This was not just about hearing stories; it was about becoming part of them. 

Don’t Miss Out on Stories Like These 

If you weren’t able to join us, we don’t want you to miss out on future events like this - or the incredible stories of God’s work around the world. The best way to stay connected is by subscribing to our emails. You’ll receive updates on upcoming gatherings, inspiring stories from global partners, and opportunities to engage in the mission of Christ-centred education. 

Sign up today and make sure you’re part of the next chapter of hope.