Telefriend in Kempton Park turns 28

The Telefriend East Rand branch recently celebrated its 28th year of ministry in Kempton Park.

The branch was launched in 1990 under the auspices and with the support of Maranatha Community Church.

Telefriend is a non-profit, interdenominational Christian telephone help-line with 60 trained volunteers who man the phones from 8.30am to 10pm every day.

Centre leader Gary Manson said: “We have been privileged to have ministered to thousands of people over the years, helping people deal with and overcome life’s problems through encouragement, exploring viable options and prayer. We minister from a practical, biblical perspective.”

The most common problems facing the community are unemployment, financial stress, strained relationships and depression.

“We have hundreds of testimonies of breakthroughs in people’s lives, whether it be emotional healing, restored relationships, employment and salvation, just to mention a few.

“We also have a support network of referral service providers who conduct follow-up face-to-face counselling on our behalf, especially in crisis situations like abuse, marital conflict, addictions and suicidal depression,” Manson said.

“It’s that time of the year when many folk come to a crossroad in their lives and have important life-changing decisions to make. We are there to listen and help in any way we can in the way forward, trusting for a favourable outcome.

“Many folk too do not enjoy the festive season. For some it is very traumatic and lonely, particularly for the elderly without families and those who have recently lost loved ones.

“Our callers are not only local but hail from all parts of the country and sometimes from expats living in Australia and New Zealand. By the grace and will of God we hope to continue for many more years to come serving Him by serving the community.”

Telefriend can be reached on 011 391 2222 or nationally on 0861 10 63 10.

They are also available on WhatsApp on 071 674 3788.