WhatsApp weekly update: 27 Oct–1 Nov 2025
We have about six weeks to go before the programme closes for the year. During this time we will join the bigger Volmoed family in celebrating the 40th anniversary of Volmoed!
Volmoed’s origins
For those who do not know, the farm “Volmoed” (meaning full of courage and hope) was bought in 1986. South Africa was in a state of emergency and the church had to step in to both oppose the deep injustice in society and also to hold people together. The Kairos document was launched in 1985 and the Belhar confession in 1986. There was also a movement called the NIR (National Initiative for Reconciliation). It was important to have a place such as Volmoed where Christians from all denominations could meet to reflect, to rest and to recharge for this struggle. Fortunately, by 1990, with the unbanning of the political movements and the release of political prisoners, we could begin our journey towards a non-racial society. We are not there yet.
Challenges
The challenge of youth unemployment, youth poverty and youth marginalisation remains a key challenge on our journey towards a more just, peaceful and reconciled society. These challenges are what VYLTP – launched ten years ago – is now addressing on a daily basis. We focus mainly on young people from Zwelihle and Mt Pleasant, but some of the work (eg our Taizé days) are for others in the Western Cape as well.
Taizé day
Our next Taizé day is on 22 November at Volmoed. Young people between 18 and 35 years old are welcome. The Saturday before that is when we go to the UCT Graduate School of Business and the Groote Kerk in Cape Town.
Highlights of the past week
- On Monday, nine of the drummers were able to be part of the visit of the educators hosted by Bridget Fleming. They travelled with them into Hermanus and spent time drumming with them. Thank you, Bridget. Each visit builds their confidence.
- On Thursday we attended the AGM of the Volmoed Trust. Our excellent preacher at the 10h00 service (and patron), Dr Lionel Louw, referred to the youth programme as a sign and carrier of hope. The presence of the young people at the AGM was also acknowledged and appreciated. Of all the retreat centres we are aware of in South Africa, Volmoed is the only one that has an active and dynamic youth programme.
- Yesterday we had several visitors. A couple who came in the morning were so inspired that they want to help as much as possible. We will meet with them in the new week (watch this space). HOPE Africa also brought a priest from the UK (Mike) to visit us.
Thank you for all your support! Please remember that the 10/10/10 campaign is ongoing and if you would like to give R10/$10/€10/£10 per month for the next ten months, we will really appreciate it! Please visit the 10/10/10 campaign page.
Volmoed Youth 