A northern areas youth ministry is working hard to offer youngsters in
gang-ridden Helenvale alternatives – and they are doing so in public
spots frequented by the gangsters.
The
group, called Truth Squad, holds regular gatherings and, on Saturday,
invited children from Helenvale and Gelvandale to The Banga – a park in
Roan Crescent, Gelvandale, that is notorious for drugdealing and other
crimes.
Through
arts and music, youngsters from the neighbourhood shared their talents
and were taught life skills by their Christian peers.
The
gathering formed part of the Truth Squad’s regular Block (Believers
Lounging on Corners for the Kingdom) Parties (Positive Arts Relevant to
the Youth) held in parks in the northern areas infiltrated by gangs.
Their aim is to change the fate of young people at risk of falling prey to a life of gangs, drugs and alcohol.
At
the weekend, more than 400 youths were involved. “We usually attract
the young people to the park in the area we are reaching out to with
hype music,” Truth Squad member Shirlene Jacobs, of Gelvandale, said.
“Once
we have everyone psyched up and dancing, we get down to business,
sharing our testimonies, praying for them and introducing them to a life
with Jesus – the answer to all of life’s problems.”
Jacobs said the group’s strategy also involved creating a platform for youngsters to realise their talents.
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