At Straatwerk, we believe in balancing the word and deed of the Gospel. During our night outreaches, we give believers hands-on opportunities to serve and grow spiritually. Our focus is on humble service, with no expectations.
Serving others with love wins the heart before it confronts the mind.
We wear vests with the message: “Here to serve”. By handing out small gifts, we share Christ’s love in a gentle, non-threatening way. Each gift is a reminder of the new life Christ offers—something money can’t buy.
Volunteers from various church denominations join the outreaches. This also helps build relationships between Straatwerk and local churches, showing what the Body of Christ looks like in action.
For youth, cell, and church groups joining us for the first time, we provide hands-on training before and during each outreach.
Deeds of love + words of love + the perfect timing of God = the focus of these outreaches.
From mid-December to Christmas, we run several outreaches. For many, this can be a lonely time, and we go wherever we need to serve them. At Easter, we use creative ways to share the message of redemption and forgiveness on the streets.
Many different groups join us to experience street outreaches, and together we create programs to fit each group’s needs.
Almost every Friday night, we go out from St. Andrews Presbyterian Church in the inner city, focusing on people visiting Cape Town’s nightlife. We start at 8:30 pm with preparation, and the outreach runs until 11:30 pm.
If you are a follower of Christ, are part of a church, and 17 or older, you are welcome. We also invite youth groups, cell groups, and other church groups. Most of our team are volunteers from all kinds of backgrounds.
With the Lord’s protection, we’ve been reaching out safely for over 60 years. We go in small teams led by an experienced team leader. We wear “Here to Serve” security vests so that people will know we are safe to talk to. There is also a significant security presence of the Central City Improvement District.
We focus on a visible Christian presence, serving with love, and trusting God to create opportunities to share the hope in Christ.
Mostly positive because they see us as safe people making a significant contribution towards a positive atmosphere in a dark environment.