Helping People Encounter God Through the Bible and Education in South Africa
From training Bible school students to shaping young children through Christian education, our heart is to see lives and families impacted by the truth of Scripture.We have the privilege of living this out daily as we serve with Fire and Fragrance South Africa (FFSA).
David is originally from the UK and first came to South Africa to attend a Discipleship School with FFSA. After completing that school and two further Bible schools, he now serves on the Bible Department team and currently leads FFSA's three-month Bible School.
This Bible School runs from September to December each year and helps students understand the full story of God throughout Scripture. Each year we hope to welcome around 50 students and walk with them on a transformative journey to encounter God through His Word and become confident in sharing the story of the Bible with others.
Outside of the school, David also serves on the Bible Department team, helping strengthen biblical literacy within our community by developing curriculum, teaching, and helping people engage more deeply with Scripture.
Before coming to South Africa, David spent seven years teaching in China after university. It was there that God powerfully met him, turned his life around, and gave him a deep love for the nations and for His Word. It is now a privilege to use that teaching gift to help others encounter God through the Bible.
Sharissa’s Work
Sharissa is from Pretoria and serves as the principal of Rooted Christian Academy, a preschool in Potchefstroom that was planted out of the FFSA community.
Although the school is still in its early years, the vision is to be a light in the city, helping families encounter the love and truth of God through education that is holistic and Spirit-led.
At Rooted Christian Academy, the children grow spiritually as well as academically. On a weekly basis they:
Pray for the nations
Learn how to hear God’s voice
Worship together in the classroom
Invite the Holy Spirit into their learning spaces
Learn subjects through a biblical worldview
Sharissa has a deep love for the children, and it is inspiring to see how the students are thriving in this unique and faith-filled environment.
Our Heart for the Future
We got married in February 2026 and are excited to continue serving God together here in Potchefstroom.
We believe God is preparing us to invest long-term in Bible teaching, discipleship, and education, helping young people and families encounter Him and grow in their understanding of His Word.
Through the Bible school, we hope to equip students who will go on to serve God in many nations and contexts. While through Rooted Christian Academy, we hope to see children and families impacted by the love and truth of God from an early age.
Join Our Support Team
Because our work is mission-based and voluntary, we are supported by a community of people who partner with us financially and in prayer so that we can serve full-time in ministry.
Monthly support helps cover:
Housing and living expenses in Potchefstroom
Ministry travel and teaching trips
We are currently trusting God to build a team of monthly partners who feel to invest in us and what God is doing.Our supporters usually choose to partner at levels such as:
£25 / $30 / R600 per month
£50 / $60 / R1200 per month
£100+ / $120+ / R2400+ per month
Of course, any amount—whether a one-time gift or monthly partnership—makes a real difference.
If you feel stirred to be part of what God is doing through our lives and ministry, we would be grateful for your partnership.Your support enables us to continue investing in students, families, and our wider community here in Potchefstroom.
Prayer Points
For us to set a firmÂ
For wisdom as we both teach and lead
For the continued growth and impact of Rooted Christian Academy
For the students attending the Bible school
For God to move in Potchefstroom and beyond
Thank you for your continued support!
With love,
David & Sharissa