Willy is visiting NSW at the invitation of Bible Society NSW who help fund Willy's World Hope Ministries outreach into the prisons of South Africa. In particular he wanted to thank the inmates at Kariong for their recent gift which had inspired others to give.
"Everywhere I go, I tell people in churches how the inmates of a juvenile correction centre in Sydney, Australia sent me $200 so I could buy Bibles to give to the inmates in South African prisons," Willy said. "Whilst that's not a huge amount, people are inspired that inmates in one prison wanted to help those half way across the world in another," said Willy. "It's a great way to encourage churches to consider how much they can give," he said.
After thanking the inmates for their support, Willy spoke on the story of Onesimus from the New Testament and how after running away from his master Philemon, he had met the Apostle Paul, accepted Christ and eventually returned to Philemon.
"No matter what you have done, Jesus Christ can set you free," said Willy. "Onesimus made a mistake, but eventually made something of his life by becoming a follower of Christ," he said.
Following his sermon and the presentation of certificates to those inmates who had contributed to the original donation, the inmates pledged another $165 so more Bibles could be provided for South African prisoners.
Prison Chaplain Martin Parish and Assistant Linda Strapps were instrumental in encouraging the inmates to consider supporting Willy's ministry. "Once we told them about the ministry and showed them a video of Willy's work – they were very keen to pledge their own money, provided we matched it dollar for dollar," Parish said. "I think this helped them push the total as high as they could, so I'd have to pitch in more of my own money," he said.
More information about the ministry of World Hope Ministries can be seen in our on-line video at www.biblesocietynsw.com.au/2008projects and click on South Africa.