“There was a man named Jabez who was more honourable than any of his brothers… He was the one who prayed to the God of Israel, “Oh, that you would bless me and expand my territory! Please be with me in all that I do and keep me from all trouble and pain!” And God granted him his request.”
1 Chronicles 4: 9-10
Greetings from Carmel
How wonderful it is to celebrate the blessing of life! In the light of Carmel’s 70th birthday, I have been reflecting on the legacy a lifetime can leave. Our 3 score and 10 years may seem to pass in the blink of an eye (Psalm 90:10), despite some seasons seeming long because of the challenges they bring. The author of Chronicles felt it important to honour Jabez, when all the rest in the genealogy were merely named. Jabez was described as honourable because of his prayer of submission to GOD. It points to a lifelong perspective he had of His Lord being the One from whom all blessing, protection and authority comes.
This passage is an encouragement to all of us to consider the legacy our time on this earth leaves behind and to hold lightly to things that have no eternal value. It lifts our perspective of the past and provides us with a sense of hope for our future, as we seek and submit to our Lord.
With this in mind, I would like to honour all those who have been part of the life of Carmel over the past 70 years. For all those who have sown into the ministry through prayer, skills, time, finances, passion and a myriad of other ways. When speaking to people about Carmel, they invariably share a story of how Carmel is a significant place to them because they had a personal encounter with their Father.
Thank you, Father for Your faithfulness, Your continued presence and the transforming power of Your Spirit. We choose to submit to Your will for Carmel and echo Jabez’ prayer:
Oh Lord, may You bless Carmel and expand its influence; may You always be present and protect us in all we do.
If you have a testimony or story of your times at Carmel over the 70 years, we would love for you to share with us in celebrating the community of Carmel. You can click here to send us your testimony.
The June/July school holidays are around the corner. The school holidays are a special time at Carmel for all to come together to create memories to last a life time. We are also still running our camping special until 31 May. All the details can be read below.
GOD bless and keep you all,
Suzanne Mackay
The Carmel Trustees
15 June 2024 – 8 July 2024
The School Holidays are a special time at Carmel, for all to come together for rest and a good amount of holiday fun.
The school holiday bookings fill up fast so be sure to book your camping or B&B accommodation soon to ensure you don’t miss out on these special times at Carmel.
During the holiday time, the Carmel team runs daily activities for kids of all ages and adults too… and for rest and restoration, our garden walks, many quiet spaces and chapel are perfect to gain the rest you may need (spiritual, emotional and physical).
To experience School Holidays at Carmel, watch our December holiday highlights video below.
Experience Carmel Camping
Experience the beauty of Carmel’s Camping and Caravan Park, while enjoying the magnificent Victoria Bay and Outeniqua mountain views, resting in our quiet spaces and many activities too. Also visit the “The Table” Restaurant for your coffee fix, treats, lunch and dinner during your stay.
Take advantage of the camping special until 31 May 2024. Reduced rates at R65 pp/ per night.
Whether you are a single camper, couple, family, or group, we welcome you to our camping experience. Our sites are divided into small, medium, and large to suit your booking requirements.
Contact our front office at 044-889-0019 or email bookings@carmelmail.co.za to book your camping experience.
Experience our Group Hospitality
Break away from the bustle of life to experience Carmel for your next group retreat, conference or day-event.
Come together for a time of restoration, networking and growth. Make your group visit an experience to remember through our range of accommodation, dining and meeting venues, while enjoying our breath-taking Victoria Bay views, beautiful gardens and quiet spaces too.
Ethnos Ministry Events
Ethnos Ministry International will also be running their ‘Table Talks‘ and ‘PAUSE’ conferences on the below dates. You can contact Suria on 082 333 6201 to find out more and book.
Carmel Prayer Room
If you would like to be a part of the Wednesday Prayer Room, we pray in the chapel every Wednesday morning from 07h00 – 08h00.
We pray that God may continue to fill our guests with renewed hope, enthusiasm and restoration.
We pray that Carmel will continue to be fruitful place, bringing the much needed restoration our guests are seeking and that God’s blessings may be poured over them. May God’s presence be at Carmel as it is in heaven.
We would love for you to partner with us in prayer for Carmel.
Carmel's ongoing legacy
The shared testimonies over the many years of Carmel’s history inspire confidence. God continues to be at work and use Carmel for His ministry. So many leave rested, encouraged, and restored, by the love of Jesus. The ripple effects of Carmel continue into eternity. All praise be to God!
In being able to continue the work of Carmel for future generations to come, we are seeking our valued guests and friends of Carmel for donations or bequests, in leaving a legacy into Carmel’s future. There are many specific projects we have on our hearts to implement the mission of Carmel, and many ways in which to become involved.
If being a part of Carmel’s legacy is on your heart, we would love to share our vision and projects with you in more detail and how you can be a part of Carmel’s bright future.