In September 2009, Kevin & Chantell received a call from the Lord to move to Oudtshoorn.  This was discussed with the Pastors and a few months later they were blessed and released from the church.  In March 2010, the Lord spoke to Kevin & Chantell about planting a church in Oudtshoorn - although there were many churches in Oudtshoorn, there was still a need and a desire for a Apostolic Kingdom Family Church to be planted.  In July 2010, the New Life Family Church was planted.

Very early on, Kevin & Chantell realised the importance of mentoring, accountability, transparency and Apostolic oversight.  It was for this reason, that they made contact with Ps. Louis Els in early 2012, through the Plett Community Church (also a COTN church) to discuss the possibility of being adopted into the Victory Cluster of Church of the Nations.  They believe, that through this relationship with COTN, they will align themselves with the will of God, as God has called the New Life Family Church of Oudtshoorn, to be an Apostolic Kingdom Family Church that will build His Family and Advance His Kingdom!

The key word and vision for Paarl Family Church (PFC) for 2012 is : “Establish”. Over the last few years in Paarl, we have realized that when God speaks vision into the local church, He means business. Vision is not just meant to be printed on banners to hang as decorative items in a church building – it must be worked out. The number 12 also represents order and part of God’s vision at PFC was to establish Godly order. At the beginning of March, we had the privilege of having Pastor Louis and Edna spend some time with us and our “elders in training”. It was a time of great encouragement, heart to heart chats, impartation and fun.  After walking a road together for the last 5 or 6 years with these couples, we held a special service on the 4th March where Louis and Edna prayed for and set in our new Eldership Team. This is part of God establishing His order in our church family. We are SO grateful to Louis and Edna for being there for us (and the church) since the very beginning. Everyday, we realize afresh the blessing of being planted in this family of churches called Church of the Nations. Let His establishing contintue so that His Kingdom might be extended.

During the month of February, Louis and Edna visited with us in Holland. We all had a great week with them. 

First of all, it was just wonderful to be together to share our lives and to continue to build relationship.

It remains powerful to see that the people who lead us, truly live out the valuesthat we stand for.

Whilst sitting in our new Reality Church office, Louis helped us sharpen our vision and we spend some time talking and discussing many other subjects and questions.   This was followed by a walk into town, with some shopping, coffee and some dinner together. Louis’ input was challenging and encouraging.   It has caused us to push into a higher level, helped us to see the bigger picture and enabled us to believe God for ridiculous big things.  On Tuesday night, Louis shared with some of our leaders and on Wednesday night, we had a service with both Dutch COTN churches -  it was great!

This week was truly significant for us as leaders and as a church.   We feel launched into a new season now.   All glory to our Savior and King, Jesus!  Without Him this would not have been possible!

To Louis and Edna,  thanks so much for pouring into us.  Thank you for your obedience to the call on your lives, for loving us and for believing in us!  To the Victory Cluster Family, thanks for sharing them with us, for your prayer and for standing with us!   We are blessed to call you our family!   Keep going with the vision that Jesus has given you where you are; it is affecting  the nations!

Lots of love

Martijn & Lianne van Loon, Reality Church in The Hague-Scheveningen and Matthijs & Judith Brouwer, Christ Centered Christian Church, Hattem

It has been a desire, expressed by the leadership of all the Karoo-churches which form part of the Victory Cluster, to get together and use the opportunity to touch hearts with Apostle Louis.

About 120 people - including pastors Hennie and Suzette Liebenberg from Somerset-East; John and Karen Herbert form Burgersdorp; Dave and Margie Turner from Middelburg, as well as members of the different congregations, attended this exciting gathering.  It was hosted by Victory Family Church in Cradock pastored by Len and Lynelle Kok.

The visitors were all treated with a light meal before the evening really got going.   They had a fantastic time of worship which was followed by a word by Apostle Louis.   He challenged the people to consider their ways.   The message came through loud and clear and not one person could say that he/she was not truly challenged by the Word.   The Word was delivered perfectly in season – His timing is truly amazing.   The changes in people’s lives already serve as a testimony of this timely Word.

All of the visiting pastors stayed over on a farm for the night and one can only guess what happened after the meeting … considering the fact that they all ate before-hand and after various direct and indirect hints, the host was forced to light a fire and put a Karoo lamb on the braai.   There is just nothing new when it comes to a COTN-family meeting!!!

The next morning, whilst having a great breakfast, the time was used to touch hearts and discuss leadership issues.  Everyone left really encouraged with the knowledge that their hearts are knitted even closer.  What a great time it was and maybe just the start of something wonderful for the Karoo-churches.