eQuip – ukuhlomisa – nêêla
eQuip is an initiative of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Southern Africa (N-T) to give people of all ages, cultures and backgrounds an opportunity to come together to be better equipped to serve God in our lives and  communities.
The eQuip journey started in December 2013, and we meet in the first week of January every year.  Each five day workshop, usually in Hermannsburg, includes high quality input from theologians as well as committed and knowledgeable lay people, with discussions and creative activities. It is a one stop shop – child friendly holiday, retreat, a chance to make new friends and experience fellowship. Themes relate to issues that affect our lives in the church and world, particularly in South Africa. We enjoy the leadership of the Bishop (especially his sense of humour!).
Let’s give you a taste of this year’s eQuip “Grace for you - eQuipped to reform”, the aim of which was to prepare us for the 500 year commemoration of the Reformation. Who doesn’t want to learn about this historic event? But we not only gained knowledge: we experienced the grace of God as a fire that still transforms us as individuals, communities and nations. Different people from within the group led the morning and evening devotions – it was exciting to experience different styles and messages. The piano, recorders, flute and guitar led us and helped us connect to the spiritual message in the songs.
For the little amount of money that you pay, you enjoy the beautiful setting in northern KZN – forests, dam, farmland, with the amenities of a school – swimming pool, comfortable accommodation, and excellent food (especially home-made bread and cottage cheese!)
Watch this space for eQuip 2nd to 7th January 2018 – we’d love you to join us.
Act now :  Wa lala wa sala! (you snooze, you lose!)
 
Christa Meyer, Ann Mokhine and Tessa Welch