If you want to see a South African face light up, ask about Cape Town. They all are so proud of the beauty, attractions and efficiency of this beautiful city .
There are 2 temples already operating in South Africa—the first in Joburg and the second, our temple, in Durban. The plan is to bring in one of the new pre-fabbed temples that are made in Alabama and within 3 months, assemble the beautiful new Cape Town temple. One problem: South African government wants the Church to hire South Africans to build the new Cape Town temple using South African materials. So currently we’re at a bit of an impasse as negotiations determine how to proceed from here. In the distance behind Devil’s Peak you can see part of Table Mountain. Great location aways off from from the touristy parts of the Cape.
Artist rendition of new proposed Cape Town temple
We enjoyed our Sabbath day by attending the historic Mowbray Ward, the first ward established on the entire continent of Africa. In 1853, 3 missionaries went up on top of Signal Hill and dedicated this beautiful country to the Lord. Six congregations had formed within two years and many of the new members decided to join the Saints in Zion.
Kirstenbosch Gardens
Spectacular display of many varieties of proteas
Our hotel was centrally located in the Bo-Kaap area. Bo-Kaap, when translated from Afrikans, means “Above the Cape”. During Apartheid the landlords required the Muslim slaves to paint their leased homes all the same color, a stark white. Once Apartheid ended, they were able to purchase their homes, and paint them whatever color they wanted! A joyous celebration released itself in a beautiful explosion of color — each house a bright, splendid, splash of color declaring their freedom!
The Muslims fast for a full month each year mid-March through mid-April. It is a time of purification and self-reflection known as Ramadan. Fridays are their holy day. As it turned out, we arrived in Cape Town during Ramadan on a Thursday and were amazingly invited to attend the breaking of their fast the next evening . Friday night as a glorious sunset unfolded, they laid their carpets out in the streets of Bo-Kaap and family and friends from all around gathered to break their fast together. What an experience! We had front row seats to this uniquely Muslim tradition out in front of our hotel. They were very gracious and kind as we mingled and took in the experience. The hotel generously provided abundant amounts of food. All food is shared amongst the crowd.
Bo-Kaap is nestled in the foothills between Lions Head and Signal Hill. We had a favorite cafe nearby the hotel where we returned several times. The cute waitress noticed our badges and said “I need a church” I don’t have one.” I told her if she gave us her name and phone number we’d have someone come teach her about Gods love. And she did!
We used the Hop On Hop Off bus to see the sights—it worked great! We waited for a clear day to visit the “Table”. If you head up to Table Mountain when the tablecloth is on (on a cloudy day), you won’t be able to see a thing. Timing is everything to capture the amazing view of Cape Town and the bay below.
Table Mountain overlooking Camps Bay — gorgeous!
Lions Head
Barbara and Billy enjoying the HOHO
Shopping at the V&A Waterfront
Let patience have her perfect work James 1:3
My favorite herbal tea is rooibos
(pronounced Roy-boss) The only place in the world it is grown is here in South Africa, just north of Cape Town in Cedarsberg. I found my oil favorite tea company here at the Watershed in Cape Town! Mmmm… so heavenly!!
Adam Rabinowitz, a most talented African photographer
The shopping on Longmarket and Green Street was a South African adventure. We discovered the “stall” of this beautiful seamstress and all bought some authentic African attire. We got home just in time to wear our new native frocks for Easter—we felt so authentic and beautifully South African!
Red Route, Blue Route, Green Route— we did them all!! Camps Bay and the 12 Apostles (there’s actually 17!)
Heading out to Robbens Island to experience the prison where Nelson Mandela and many other political prisoners were held
Our tour guide was an actual prisoner on Robbens Island. His description of what transpired there was very emotional. The prisoners used their time on the island for education and self-improvement as they were able despite the harsh conditions.
Is it 5 or is it 8… or is it 6 World Heritage sites?? To be discovered…
