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Working for the Bethany Project has been the most inspiring and moving work that I have ever undertaken. A family of 75 children all working together without conflict and argument is something to behold. The children are the most well behaved and loving children that I have ever encountered.
It is hard to believe that these children are all orphaned (abandoned or abused). And one has to remind oneself of this constantly. The sound of hymn and prayer is in the air throughout the day even when rehearsals are not taking place. During rehearsals the sound of the choir is truly inspirational and to say nothing of the choir performances themselves which are nothing short of awesome. The children do not perform their songs, they actually own them with a dignity and sound that is not found in any other circles.
We went to Bethany with an intention to fit out the new girls’ dormitory with doors, toilets and showers and this is what we did. We came home however with much more than satisfaction of a job well done. Speaking for myself, I came home a different person. I have met a family that have taught me a faith and happiness that is rarely seen in the UK. The Bethany children have taught me that there is happiness in a world without possessions, that there is love in an environment where god is the custodian and that people can thrive even when their natural family may no longer exist.
The work that the Bethany Project undertakes is successful in that it has created a respectful and loving family without the need for material possession or gain. The children are rescued from the most hostile and unfortunate life threatening circumstances and are cared for in a manner that fosters love, respect and a healthy way of life. They have no need of western materialism as they have something inside of them worth far more than many western people, faith and hope.
They are educated, looked after and kept healthy with love for themselves, each other, people they meet, and god. Money donated to the Bethany Project is wisely and prudently spent and there is no waste. There are no lavish expenses and the food served is basic and healthy. There are no overweight children and there are no undernourished children also. The Bethany children have a bright future as they are rewarded for hard work and eat well.
A little known fact is that the Bethany Project also serves the community of Magu in that it provides a clinic for local people and 90% of the fresh water produced by Bethany is for the villagers, reducing disease in the community. The benefits of Bethany reach much further than the 75 orphaned children who live there. The work that is done for Bethany is done on a voluntary basis by a UK team of dedicated and hard working people and it is my privilege to support them in all they do.
By Ian Kelly Joinery Lecturer at Salford College.
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