SOUTH AFRICA—The forecast for an 80 percent chance of precipitation in Johannesburg on February 23 did not dampen the enthusiasm of members of the local Philadelphia Church of God congregation, who attended a “bring and braai” family day at the home of members Gregory and Hester Lightfoot. Several members from out of town also attended, along with Regional Director Alex Harrison and his wife, Glenys.

The group of 45 brought smiles and appetites and shared a day of conversation, fun and food including large homemade pizzas from a woodfired pizza oven and braaied (barbecued) meats.

The day began with thick, dark clouds, but by early afternoon the skies had cleared enough for children to play in the swimming pool and for youths and adults to play games like bocce, scoop ball, volleyball and tsoro. Several tried their hands at juggling, guided by Blessing Sithole.

Toni, 10, said, “I had so much fun playing in the pool with the other children.” His sister Trish said, “Our family really enjoyed the social.”

Shayne Bellairs, the only member from Port Elizabeth flew two hours to attend services on the Sabbath and the social the next day. He said, “Seeing the children enjoy themselves so much was the best part of the social.”