They will be calling Lesotho home
The Van der Pols, although devout Christians and serving as part of the ministry team at New Life Church for several years, didn't consider becoming missionaries.
But God had a different plan. As from January 2020, they will call Semonkong, Lesotho, home.
"We don't say we will be missionaries. We say we are relocating," says Adele over coffee at Baruch's Roastery. This is one of many things the couple agree they will miss in Mossel Bay, but the confirmation of their new calling is beyond doubt. They plan on staying in Lesotho for up to 10 years.
Their aim is to, with the help of the local community, plant 50 churches in five years.
Confirmation
Following a rigorous interview process, the couple with their nine-month-old daughter, spent a month on the missions field in Zambia. Taking to her environment like a duck to water, little Rebecca took her first steps, learning to walk, in Zambia.
During this time, they were evaluated by a team which monitored how well they adapted in the field.
Rebecca is now 18 months old. "Our move would have been so easy, if it weren't for Rebecca. We know she will miss out on a lot of family time." Most of the Van der Pols' family stay in the Mossel Bay area.
However, even before they were called to missions, Arno's sister, who is a missionary, came to visit with her children. "Not knowing what lay ahead for us at all at that stage, we both just looked at her kids, how free and unspoiled they are. We agreed that we would love the same for Rebecca and look what happened," Adele chuckles.
Their biggest challenge initially will be to learn seSotho. "There are other things that we also need to learn more about."
Arno has been leading several missions to Lesotho during the past few years. "As much as we enjoy the urban church experience, when you are there it is just Jesus."
Fundraising
The Van der Pols can only start their journey and their new life, provided they are fully funded to cover their monthly expenses. "We are grateful to say that we are more than halfway there," says Arno.
Every bit, however, helps. Lesotho is 961km far from New Life Church, Heiderand. On 9 November, in support of the Van der Pols, the church is hosting a walkathon event. From 08:00, participants can walk 1km, but the trick is to see how many times they can cover the distance. Any amount can be sponsored for each kilometre covered.
For those who prefer to spend the day less active, there will be boerewors rolls and pancakes on sale. Cold drinks are also on sale.
New Life Church is at 68 Apiesdoring Street, Heiderand. New Life Church is part of Assemblies of God.
For more information, call 044 693 2159.