Caritas Care Mossel Baai

Caritas Care Mossel Bay operates on two foundational pillars: Training and Therapy. Our mission is to promote emotional well-being and personal development through exceptional training in pastoral narrative therapy and empathetic, non-judgmental therapeutic services. We are dedicated to fostering a nurturing and inclusive environment where individuals, couples, families, and businesses can explore their stories, overcome challenges, and construct empowering narratives. Our aim is to support and guide our clients and students on their journey towards resilience, healing, and meaningful connections with themselves and others.

Caritas Care Mossel Bay is a community-based organization. We are a collective of compassionate individuals committed to serving and supporting people with humanity and kindness, ensuring they can live and flourish in peace, and become the individuals they are meant to be.

The Rise of Caritas Care Mossel Bay

In February 2016, a satellite campus for training in Pastoral Narrative Therapy was established in Mossel Bay. Under the leadership of Dr. André Botha, 32 students embarked on a two-year course, attending classes two nights per week on a bi-weekly basis. Our lectures, delivered by esteemed professionals from Coram Deo in Pretoria and local experts, set a high standard of education. Notable lecturers include Dr. Marietjie van Loggerenberg, Essie Raath, Erika Marais, Dr. Jo Viljoen, Dr. André Botha, and Ds. Pieter de Wet, as well as local lecturers Ds. Gerrie van Deventer and Dr. Koos van der Merwe.

On November 14, 2017, Caritas Care Mossel Bay was officially registered as a Non-Profit Company (NPC 2017/515647/08). Committed to serving the greater Mossel Bay area, our campus has grown significantly, with many counsellors now practicing in the field.

The goal of Caritas Care is to train and equip students in the field of Pastoral Narrative Therapy, enabling them to better understand themselves and their own stories. Equipped with this knowledge, they can assist others, including families, colleagues, and clients, by asking guiding questions and becoming co-travelers in the journey towards calmer waters. To date, more than 150 students have enrolled in our course, driven by various motivations ranging from personal enrichment to enhancing community projects and congregational involvement. Our course prepares individuals to make a meaningful difference in the lives of others through unique therapeutic approaches.

For those who complete the two-year Pastoral Narrative Therapy Course, ongoing studies are available. In 2018, we initiated our first Alumni classes, with 44 Alumni students currently enrolled.

Join Caritas Care Mossel Bay and be a part of a compassionate community dedicated to fostering growth, healing, and meaningful connections.

Meet the Team

Dr Andre Botha

Dr. Andre Botha is a cornerstone of Caritas Care Mosselbay, serving as our esteemed anchor lecturer and one of the visionary founding members of our organization. With a robust work ethic and an unwavering commitment to excellence, Dr. Botha has significantly shaped our community’s approach to care and therapy.

As a distinguished Pastoral Narrative Therapist in the Garden Route, Dr. Botha brings a unique blend of empathy, expertise, and innovation to his practice. His therapeutic approach, grounded in the rich traditions of pastoral care and narrative therapy, has transformed countless lives, offering healing and hope to those in need.

Dr. Botha’s dedication to education and mentorship is unparalleled. He is an exceptional teacher who inspires both colleagues and students with his profound knowledge, compassionate demeanor, and engaging teaching style. His contributions to Caritas Care Mosselbay extend beyond the classroom, as he actively participates in developing and implementing programs that promote holistic well-being within our community.

Ds Gerrie van Deventer

Gerrie van Deventer, a native of Tosca in the Molopo region, brings a wealth of experience and a deep commitment to his roles as both a lecturer and a director at Caritas Care. Married to Irma, Gerrie is a devoted family man with three sons: Hardus, Krüger, and Francois. Their family shares strong bonds, a love for nature and sports, and enjoys spending quality time together.

Gerrie’s educational journey is extensive. He began his schooling at Tosca Primary and Schweizer-Reneke High School, followed by studies at the Potchefstroom University for Christian Higher Education (PUK). He then pursued Theology at the University of Pretoria (TUKS) and later earned a doctorate from Stellenbosch University (Maties).

His career in ministry started in Johannesburg, serving the Deaf community. He then fulfilled his military service as a chaplain at Mariepskop. Gerrie’s pastoral work extended to the NG congregations of Standerton-Wes for 10 years and Roodekrans for 12 years, before moving to Mossel Bay in 2006, where he continues to serve.

Passionate about pastoral care and people, Gerrie has continually sought to deepen his expertise. Early training with FAMSA laid the groundwork for his journey into Narrative Therapy, which began in 2013-2014 with a course by Dr. Deon Bruwer at Stellenbosch University’s Faculty of Theology. He further enriched his skills through various training sessions with Elize Morkel. Since 2015, the Coram Deo training program has provided a pastoral narrative framework in which Gerrie has thrived.

As a full-time pastor, Gerrie leads a Care Ministry that focuses on supporting individuals through illness and trauma. His work encompasses a broad scope, often resembling that of a “GP” in pastoral care, which he embraces wholeheartedly.

Gerrie’s life philosophy is profoundly shaped by Koos Dup’s prayer: “What I am is only by grace; what I have is only on loan.” This sentiment encapsulates his calling and desire to guide others: “I long for Your waters of rest. Lead me, Lord … there.”

With a deep faith and a compassionate heart, Gerrie van Deventer is dedicated to reflecting God’s love and grace in all his endeavors, enriching the Caritas Care community through his leadership and teaching.

Petra Groenewald

Petra Groenewald has been at the helm of Caritas Care since 2023, leading our organization with unwavering dedication and a deep sense of compassion. As the Chairman, Petra brings a unique blend of strong leadership and empathetic understanding, driving our mission to support and uplift those in need.

 Petra’s journey with Caritas Care is rooted in her extensive training and commitment to personal growth. In 2020-2021, she completed a two-year Narrative Pastoral Course, which profoundly shaped her approach to leadership and care. This course equipped her with valuable skills in narrative therapy and pastoral care, enhancing her ability to listen, understand, and support individuals through their personal stories and challenges.

 Under Petra’s guidance, Caritas Care has flourished, expanding its reach and impact in the community. Her strategic vision and compassionate approach have fostered a culture of empathy and support within the organization, ensuring that every individual we serve feels valued and heard.

 Petra is not only a dedicated leader but also an inspiring figure within the nonprofit sector. Her commitment to Caritas Care and her passion for helping others continue to drive our organization towards greater achievements and deeper community engagement.

Suria Terblanche

Suria Terblanche is a vital force within the dynamic team of directors at Caritas Care, bringing her expertise and dedication to the forefront. As the custodian of technology for our esteemed training center, Suria ensures that our technological infrastructure is not just up to date, but optimized to empower our mission of care and support.

Suria’s commitment goes beyond the realm of technology; she is deeply involved in various facets of our organization, contributing her insights and efforts to enhance our operations. With a passion for excellence and a keen eye for detail, Suria consistently seeks ways to streamline processes and elevate the quality of services we provide.

Her dedication is unmistakable, as she tirelessly works to ensure that every aspect of our training center runs smoothly and efficiently. Suria’s multifaceted contributions extend far beyond her official role, as she readily takes on additional responsibilities to support the overarching goals of Caritas Care.
n 2018, Suria completed her pastoral narrative therapy course, enriching her understanding of the human experience and deepening her capacity for meaningful connection and support. This qualification, coupled with her registration as a counselor, underscores her commitment to holistic care and underscores her dedication to serving others in their times of need.
In every endeavor, Suria embodies the spirit of compassion and professionalism that defines our organization. Her unwavering commitment to our mission inspires all who have the privilege of working alongside her, making her an invaluable asset to the Caritas Care family.

Helise Schumann

Helise Schumann is a cornerstone of Caritas Care Mosselbay, serving as the Director of Finance with unwavering dedication and profound wisdom. She brings a unique blend of financial expertise and compassionate leadership to her role, ensuring that every aspect of Caritas Care’s financial operations aligns with its mission to uplift and empower the community.

Helise’s journey with Caritas Care is marked by her deep commitment to its vision and values. In 2019, she completed a two-year pastoral narrative therapy course with Caritas Care, further enriching her understanding of the human experience and enhancing her ability to support those in need.

With a meticulous approach to financial management, Helise oversees Caritas Care’s resources with precision and care. Her strategic insight and prudent decision-making have been instrumental in sustaining the organization’s financial health and fostering long-term sustainability.

Beyond her professional accomplishments, Helise is known for her compassionate spirit and genuine empathy towards others. She recognizes the importance of holistic care and approaches her work with a deep sense of respect and understanding for each individual’s journey.

Helise Schoeman exemplifies the values of integrity, compassion, and wisdom that are at the core of Caritas Care’s mission. Her leadership continues to inspire those around her, driving Caritas Care forward in its mission to make a meaningful difference in the lives of others.

Prudence Gelderbloem

Prudence Gelderbloem, a beacon of integrity and excellence, serves as the Financial Director at Caritas Care Mosselbay, where she orchestrates financial strategies with meticulous precision. Prudence’s commitment to transparency and ethical conduct has not only solidified her reputation but also elevated her to a position of high esteem within the organization and the community at large.

With a profound understanding of financial intricacies and a keen eye for detail, Prudence ensures that every monetary transaction aligns with Caritas Care Mosselbay’s mission and values. Her unwavering dedication to fiscal responsibility not only safeguards the organization’s financial health but also underscores her unwavering commitment to serving those in need.

Prudence’s journey is marked by a track record of excellence and a relentless pursuit of perfection. Her leadership exemplifies a harmonious blend of astute financial acumen and compassionate stewardship. Under her guidance, Caritas Care Mosselbay continues to thrive, delivering vital services to the community with unwavering efficiency and compassion.

Beyond her professional endeavors, Prudence remains deeply invested in fostering a culture of integrity and accountability. Her approachable demeanor and willingness to lead by example inspire trust and confidence among her peers and colleagues.

In recognition of her exemplary contributions, Prudence Gelderbloem stands as a pillar of strength and a paragon of virtue within Caritas Care Mosselbay and beyond. Her unwavering commitment to excellence serves as a guiding light, illuminating the path toward a brighter, more compassionate future for all.

Elsabet Louw

Elsabet Louw is a dynamic and compassionate leader, recently appointed as one of the newest directors of Caritas Care. Her journey to this esteemed position is marked by resilience, faith, and a deep commitment to serving others.

Elsabet’s remarkable story, chronicled in her powerful testimony titled ‘Woensdag,’ captivated audiences when it was released in 2009. In this memoir, she courageously shared her personal struggles and triumphs, inspiring countless individuals to find hope in the midst of adversity.

In her quest to further support and uplift others, Elsabet embarked on a transformative journey of education and training. She completed a rigorous two-year pastoral narrative therapy course with Caritas Care in 2023, honing her skills in counseling and narrative healing. This experience equipped her with invaluable tools to guide individuals through their own journeys of healing and self-discovery.

Elsabet’s impact extends beyond the pages of her memoir and the walls of the counseling room. As a sought-after speaker at women’s conferences, she has touched the hearts of diverse audiences with her authenticity, wisdom, and unwavering faith. Her ability to connect with others on a deep and personal level has made her a beacon of hope and encouragement for countless individuals seeking inspiration and guidance.

Now, as a director at Caritas Care, Elsabet brings her unique blend of compassion, insight, and leadership to the forefront of the organization’s mission. With her steadfast dedication to empowering individuals and fostering positive change, she continues to make a profound difference in the lives of those she serves.

Janeke de Klerk

Janeke de Klerk is the cornerstone of Caritas Care, ensuring that the administrative wheels turn smoothly and that both students and lecturers alike experience the utmost satisfaction within our educational community.

With a passion for organizational efficiency and a keen eye for detail, Janeke brings a wealth of experience to her role in Caritas. Her dedication to excellence and commitment to fostering a positive environment have made her an invaluable asset to our team.

Janeke’s responsibilities encompass a wide range of crucial tasks, from managing student enrollment and faculty scheduling to overseeing facilities and resources. Her meticulous approach ensures that every aspect of the administrative process is handled with precision and care, allowing our educational programs to flourish.

Beyond her administrative duties, Janeke is deeply invested in the well-being of our students and faculty. She goes above and beyond to address any concerns or issues that may arise, always striving to create a supportive and nurturing environment where everyone can thrive.

With her unwavering dedication and tireless work ethic, Janeke plays a pivotal role in upholding Caritas Care’s commitment to excellence in education and student satisfaction. We are fortunate to have her leadership guiding us forward as we continue to empower individuals through learning and growth.

Judy Meyer

Judy Meyer is the newest member of the Caritas team, bringing a wealth of enthusiasm and dedication to her role. Renowned for her exceptional organizational skills, Judy ensures that every task is executed with precision and efficiency. Her passion for people is evident in every interaction, as she consistently goes above and beyond to create a welcoming and supportive environment for all.

With a natural gift for hospitality, Judy excels at making everyone feel at home. Her warm demeanor and attentive nature make her an invaluable asset to our team, fostering a sense of community and care. We are thrilled to have Judy on board and look forward to the positive impact she will undoubtedly bring to Caritas