“Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience.” — Colossians 3:12

We recently had the incredible opportunity to host a Courage to Care conference in Cape Town, where two of our U.S. staff, Stacy and Tabitha, experienced the training for the first time. We’re excited for them to share their hearts with you.

We thought we understood the reach and impact of Kerus’ work—until we experienced the two-day Courage to Care training in Fish Hoek, South Africa. As two women deeply invested in this mission, we believed we had a firm grasp of its scope.

Yet, nothing could have prepared us for the profound transformation we witnessed. What unfolded in the sun-filled retreat center at Living Hope, our host organization, was beyond words.

Sixty participants from twenty-three ministries and organizations across Cape Town and beyond traveled—some over two hours each way—not for recognition but with a hunger and eagerness to learn new approaches, methods, and insights to be more effective with the people they love so deeply.

Titles and experience didn’t matter; what united them was a calling to bring healing and hope to the impoverished and vulnerable communities they serve.

Each morning began with acapella voices lifting songs of praise, hands and hearts lifted to the heavens. With every door and window open, the melodies carried beyond the room, filling the space with an undeniable spirit of joy and faith.

Sitting alongside passionate and experienced pastors, social workers, directors, and teachers, we weren’t just observers; we were fellow learners, deeply moved by our collective faith, perseverance, resilience, and trust that God equips us to serve in even the most challenging of places.

Marcia and Jennie led with discernment, compassion, and excitement, ensuring every participant felt seen, heard, valued, and empowered to go back to their communities to make a difference.

As past wounds surfaced, we witnessed heads hung and shoulders slumped as many of the participants themselves were victims of past abuse —but even in those moments, hope and even forgiveness abounded.

But, more common was the sound of lively conversation and laughter, as the highly interactive curriculum involved cellophane-wrapped bags of American candy being tossed, brightly colored beach balls being batted, and good-natured competition.

This conference was the first time we had the privilege of experiencing the full Courage to Care training, and we were in awe—not just of the depth of its content to prevent sexual abuse and exploitation of children but of its power to transform hearts and lives.

Every lesson felt rich with meaning, offering insights that applied far beyond the training room. We could sit through it time and time again and still walk away with something new, something deeper.

As we listened and reflected, we gained a deeper understanding of God’s heart for those who suffer—a heart of compassion.

Some of us held back tears as past wounds surfaced, reminded that God’s compassion means he suffers with us and calls us to do the same for others.

Looking around the room, we saw this message take root. We left with a renewed resolve to embody empathy, extend grace, and reflect God’s love and compassion in our homes, churches, workplaces, and communities.

Reflecting together on the 15-hour flight back to the US, we both agreed that what brought us the utmost joy over those two very special days was the ability to work alongside our South African colleagues who work at our Orphan Care Center, Kele (Director), and Khensani (Administrator). 

Kele’s wisdom and gentleness mirrored her tender heart as she masterfully guided our team, while Khensani’s formidable yet compassionate spirit reflected God’s heart to serve others.

It is such an honor and joy to have colleagues who we love and respect deeply. They have truly become like our family.

Courage to Care is more than a training conference; it is a movement of hope and restoration, a reflection of God’s love in action. And we were profoundly honored to be part of it.