Through the Storm, With Eyes on Christ
Gospel Endurance in Trying Times
Dear Friends of Village Mercy,
There are moments in life when everything goes according to plan, the skies are clear, the path ahead is steady, and you can breathe a little easier. But there are also moments when everything changes in an instant. As a pilot, I’ve experienced both. And this past month at Village Mercy felt a lot like flying into a sudden storm.
The armed robbery on May 29th shook us deeply. It was more than the loss of phones, laptops, and solar power, it was the fear, the violation, the pain of watching our residents face that kind of darkness after fighting so hard to leave it behind. Men who came here to heal were suddenly confronted with trauma at their doorstep.
And yet, God never left us.
“When you pass through the waters, I will be with you… and when you pass through the rivers, they will not sweep over you” (Isaiah 43:2).
In the days that followed, we saw something remarkable. Groceries started arriving. Donations came through. People we’d never met reached out with prayers and encouragement. Locks were replaced. Doors were fixed. New security systems were installed, because of you.
Some donated new burglar bars and door frames. Others gave sacrificially, allowing us to recover what was lost and strengthen what remained. Your love made that possible.
Even more incredibly, life here didn’t just carry on, it grew.
- We welcomed three new residents, with another waiting to join.
- We started dreaming again, planning to rebuild our toolshed, praying for connection to municipal power so we can run training projects better.
- We found ourselves worshiping a little louder, praying a little longer, and leaning into Christ more fully.
“We are hard pressed on every side, but not crushed; perplexed, but not in despair” (2 Cor. 4:8–9).
So we’re doing what Paul encouraged:
“Let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, fixing our eyes on Jesus” (Hebrews 12:1–2).
To each of you who stood with us, whether through a gift, a prayer, a kind word, or a visit, you were a lifeline. You reminded us that we’re not alone, and we thank God for you.
With gratitude and hope,
Edward Matovu
Milestones Worth Celebrating & Updates
Watch on YouTube
We also released a new episode of Stories of Mercy on Youtube, this time featuring Thulani Dineka, Thabang’s older brother, who joined the program after witnessing his brother’s transformation.
Stories of Mercy
“Thulani Dineka” is a powerful reminder that no one is beyond grace. Don’t miss it.
As these stories unfold, we’re reminded that this work is sustained not just by what happens inside our walls, but by the faithful hands and hearts who support it from the outside. You can be part of that story.
Connect us to resources—tools, groceries, or work opportunities go a long way in helping men rebuild.
Refer someone in need—if you know a man trapped in addiction, we’d love to walk the journey with him.
Pray for us—for wisdom in leadership, strength for our team, and open doors for discipleship. Please keep Thabang and Thulani in your prayers as they continue walking in newness of life.
Proverbs for Life and Freedom
A major milestone this month has been the launch of “Proverbs for Life and Freedom”, a six-month discipleship curriculum written by our Program Director, Nhlakanipho Sithole. Rooted in Proverbs and shaped by South African realities, it helps men in recovery confront sin, grow in wisdom, and build godly habits.
We’ve begun using it with our residents, and the response has been deeply encouraging. With Alex Rubstein’s help, we’re refining the design and hope to release it publicly soon.
Hands of Mercy: You Gave, God Multiplied
After the robbery, we were overwhelmed, but not abandoned. The generosity that followed left us speechless. From groceries and EFTs to GoFundMe donations and faithful prayers, you showed up, and God multiplied every gift.
Thanks to your support, we repaired what was broken, restored safety, and refocused on the mission. Every cent, every visit, every prayer made a real difference.
We wish we could name each of you, but please know: we saw it, we felt it, and we thank God for you.