Kerus Global Education

05/17/2026

This afternoon we will be celebrating with over 200 guests at our annual Kerus Virginia event at Brix and Columns Vineyard. We thought it would be fitting to highlight a partner that has truly helped capture this remarkable event year after year!

If a picture is worth a thousand words, then J. Ellis Photography has helped tell the story of Kerus in countless beautiful ways over the years. With a quiet presence and an attentive eye, John faithfully captures the heart of each Kerus event—preserving not just moments, but the spirit behind them.

A gifted wedding photographer, John understands how to tell the story of meaningful occasions with authenticity and grace.

Year after year, he has generously shared that gift with Kerus—capturing the beauty of the décor, the excitement of the silent auction, the energy of the live auction, the passion behind the Kerus mission, and the joy of fellowship shared among the Kerus family.

We are deeply grateful for John’s continued partnership and support. Because of his generosity and talent, we have a rich collection of memories that faithfully reflect the life and heart of Kerus.

05/16/2026

Kerus has been blessed to find a true friend in the heart and artistry of local creator Catherine Crummett.

Though many may not know her by name, her beautiful craftsmanship has quietly become a memorable part of the Kerus experience.

Over the past several years, guests at our events have been captivated by one-of-a-kind silent auction pieces thoughtfully designed around the Kerus story and theme of the evening—a stunning wood and marble serving tray with matching coasters adorned with the elegance of the Kerus wine label, or an exquisite jewelry box featuring the majestic tree that symbolized this year’s theme, Resilient Roots.

With little concern for recognition, Catherine pours extraordinary care and creativity into each piece she creates for Kerus. Her work offers more than beauty—it gives others the opportunity to take home a meaningful treasure that keeps the life-giving mission of Kerus close at hand.

We are deeply honored by Catherine’s generous investment in our mission and grateful for the way she uses her imagination and talent to help tell the story of Kerus through creations crafted so lovingly and intentionally for our community.

05/16/2026

Through our partnership with Brix and Columns Vineyard for the Kerus event, we were introduced to one of the Shenandoah Valley’s most creative hidden treasures—Nutt House Wine and Wood. With remarkable craftsmanship and imagination, they breathe new life into reclaimed wine barrels, transforming them into stunning works of functional art.

Using barrels sourced primarily from vineyards throughout the Shenandoah Valley and surrounding areas, they lovingly handcraft one-of-a-kind pieces including Lazy Susans, wine racks, serving trays, tables, benches, baskets, and many other beautifully distinctive creations. Each piece carries its own story, blending rustic charm with thoughtful artistry.

For the past two years, Nutt House Wine and Wood has generously donated some of their most creative pieces to the Kerus auctions, even incorporating the beloved Brix and Columns brand into one of the handcrafted tables as a meaningful personal touch.

We are deeply grateful for their generosity, creativity, and willingness to share their talents in support of the Kerus mission. Their partnership has added beauty, craftsmanship, and heart to our events in unforgettable ways.

05/15/2026

Some supporters quietly show up year after year — not for recognition, but because they genuinely believe in the mission. That’s been true of Powder Shack.

After learning about Kerus many years ago, the team at Powder Shack has continued to come alongside this event with generosity and encouragement, and we’re deeply grateful for their ongoing support.

Located near Massanutten in McGaheysville, Powder Shack has long been a trusted part of the ski and snowboard community. From custom boot fittings and equipment repairs to helping families gear up for winter traditions, they’ve helped create countless memories on the mountain over the years.

Their shop reflects what we value so deeply at Kerus — people who care about community, relationships, and showing up consistently for others.

❤️ Thank you, Powder Shack, for continuing to support this event and the work of Kerus year after year.

05/08/2026

Some missions feel personal—and for Caitlin Berkey and her family, this is one of them.

The heart behind Kerus and its leadership is what has drawn them in and kept them close. It’s not just about meeting immediate needs—it’s about walking alongside children, grannies, and leaders in a way that leads to lasting, generational change.

As a Committee Co-Chair, Caitlin shares why this work matters so deeply to her—and why she continues to show up for it.

We’d love for you to be part of it too.

Save your seat: https://kerusva26.givesmart.com

https://youtu.be/mcDTOD1yE1I

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05/07/2026

Some of the most resilient roots are the ones quietly growing behind the scenes — and Tamara Gibson of Tamara’s Design is one of ours.

Each year, Tamara creates stunning floral arrangements that grace our tables and serve as live auction pieces at our Kerus events. But what makes her contribution truly special is the why behind it.

In her own words:

"My work is rooted in a love for God's creation and a commitment to growing and designing flowers sustainably in ways that honor and restore the earth."

That same love and intention flows into everything she creates for Kerus — helping us build gatherings where beauty and peace invite deeper connection and renewal.

We are so grateful for you, Tamara.

Do you want to experience the beauty of Tamara's Design in person? Join us at our event on May 17 — we would love to have you with us!

https://kerusva26.givesmart.com

05/04/2026

Some people don’t just support a mission—they live it out in their everyday lives. That’s exactly what Dr. Cathy Slusher does.

As a trusted OB-GYN and a pivotal leader in the Harrisonburg community, Cathy has faithfully served as a longtime Committee Chair. She’s seen firsthand the impact of Kerus’ work in South Africa and around the world—and it’s why she continues to say yes.

In this video, she shares her heart and offers a simple invitation: come be part of what God is doing.
There’s still time to join us.

Reserve your seat: https://kerusva26.givesmart.com

https://youtu.be/nCY3bxD22yU

Resilient Roots Virginia Event Invitation from Cathy Slusher | May 17, 2026

04/28/2026

Some partnerships are rooted in something deeper—love that leads to action.

The Pence family of Brix & Columns Vineyards lives this so beautifully. Called by love and compelled to act, they invest in people both in their Harrisonburg community and around the world—reflecting the same heartbeat that drives our work: courageously building a world where every child is safe.

Stephanie Pence and her daughter, Emma, stepped into this firsthand at our Care Center in Soshanguve—playing games, giving hugs, and simply being present with our children in ways that matter deeply.

From Steve and Stephanie Pence donating their stunning venue at the vineyard every year for our Virginia gathering, traveling to South Africa to support our Orphan Care Center, to walking alongside us as dear friends, their partnership has meant more than we can express.

We’re honored to gather at Brix & Columns on May 17 for our Annual Kerus Event:
Resilient Roots – Embedded in Love. Empowered to Lead.

Together, we’ll celebrate the roots growing around the world—and right here at home.
Grateful to walk this journey together.

Brix and Columns photo credit - J. Ellis Photography

04/05/2026

Easter reminds us that even in the face of deep loss, new life is possible.

We have seen and experienced places marked by hardship, grief, and brokenness—yet this is the hope we hold onto: that love is stronger, that redemption is real, and that darkness does not have the final word.

He Is Risen!

Because He is alive, there is hope—hope that hearts can be restored, that lives can be transformed, and that even the hardest stories are not finished.

This is the truth that shapes everything we do at Kerus.
And it’s the same hope we carry with us today.

Wishing you a meaningful and hope-filled Easter.

03/20/2026

Four years ago, Marcia and Kele—our Care Center Director of 12 years—planted a small pomegranate tree in the backyard of Kele’s home.

Not for decoration, but for hope.

They planted it believing that one day, it would provide fruit for the children in our care.

Last week, it did.

The tree produced three large bags of pomegranates—enough for every child to receive one. Some even left with two.

The joy on their faces was unforgettable.

Moments like this remind us that the most meaningful work takes time. Roots grow quietly beneath the surface before the fruit appears.

It’s the same truth that shapes the work of Kerus—investing in children, strengthening families, and equipping courageous leaders whose lives will bear fruit for generations.

This is the heart behind our celebration in Virginia on May 17: Resilient Roots – Embedded in Love. Empowered to Lead.

We would love for you to join us!
Reserve your tickets: https://kerusva26.givesmart.com