Where would we all love to see the young people of our beloved country in 5 years’ time? You’ll probably agree that we want to see EVERY young person transformed by Jesus and filled with hope. Can you see a generation living in hope, despite the giants that have faced and continue to face South Africa?
As Christians and Christian ministries in South Africa, we have to join hands to see this dream come true, against the odds. It’s high time for Christians across all traditional boundaries to set aside differences, rather majoring on the important things – and tackling the task together.
Only through being transformed by Jesus, can our young people live differently – and experience hope. We are interested in the whole person, and believe that the Gospel is more that just a conversion experience. Building relationships of trust, and earning the right to speak into the lives of young people, is an ideal way to achieve this vision.
The mission of Scripture Union South Africa—to introduce every young person to Jesus, the Bible, and the church—reflects a clear and intentional pathway for meaningful faith development. We believe it is not enough for young people to simply hear about faith in passing; they need opportunities to personally encounter Jesus, engage with the truth of Scripture, and experience the support of a Christian community. Each part of this mission plays a vital role: introducing young people to Jesus opens the door to a personal relationship with Him, the Bible provides guidance and understanding for life, and the church offers a space where that faith can be nurtured and lived out in community.
This mission is especially important in today’s context, where many young people are growing up without consistent spiritual input or a sense of belonging. By intentionally creating spaces—whether through camps, school programs, or small groups—we help young people engage in the Word, build a relationship with Jesus and grow in their faith in ways that are relevant and accessible to them. Our desire is not just a once-off encounter, but a journey where young people are rooted in God’s Word and connected to a faith community that supports their growth. In doing so, we are equipping them with a foundation that shapes their choices, builds character, and enables them to live with purpose and hope in every area of their lives.
In a country still carrying the deep scars of colonialism and apartheid, Scripture Union South Africa continues to stand as a witness to hope, unity, and transformation among young people. Now 102 years old, SU South Africa has grown far beyond its early identity as a Bible-reading movement, while remaining rooted in its core calling. From its early beginnings—formally established in 1924 through the leadership of Hippo Millard—passionate volunteers reached young people across the country with Scripture-reading resources in multiple languages, laying a foundation of accessibility and inclusivity that still shapes the movement today.
Over time, SU South Africa has developed into a dynamic, relational ministry that engages young people in ways that are relevant to their real-life contexts. What began with initiatives like Beach Missions and Schools Ministry has expanded into a wide range of programmes, including camps, school-based groups, and life skills initiatives, all delivered in partnership with local churches. Today, SU remains committed to walking alongside young people—building relationships, creating safe spaces, and providing opportunities for them to encounter Jesus, engage with the Bible, and connect with a community of faith. As we continue into our second century, our focus is not only on honouring our legacy, but on responding to the needs of today’s generation with creativity, compassion, and purpose.
Scripture Union South Africa works through a relational and sustainable model of equipping and enabling mission partners to reach children and young people with the Gospel. We believe that the greatest impact happens through people who are already present in schools, churches and communities.
Our approach is shaped by a simple movement framework: GATHER, GROW and GO — where we identify and connect with people, equip and develop them, and then support them as they reach young people.
We invest in people who are called and positioned to make a difference. Through training, resources and ongoing support, we multiply our impact and build a movement of faithful, local witnesses.
We look to God for our provision. Although we apply our minds and best efforts to the task, God will provide what we need.
We seek out opportunities to empower others because through capacity building we grow God’s Kingdom.
We desire for ourselves and others to be like Jesus. We must make disciples—Jesus calls us to this as our main task as we follow Him. (Mt. 28:16-20)
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Scripture Union South Africa Joins Nation Builders
We are excited be a proud member of Nation Builders.
Together, we build for a greater purpose.
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