Our Founders: Pastors Wendy and Neville McDonald

Wendy’s calling to ministry became evident as she and Neville, her partner in life and faith, felt compelled to create places where people could be empowered in their faith, experience spiritual growth, and discover a loving community. Their shared vision birthed the Good Hope Christian Centre in five campuses throughout Cape Town, South Africa, as well as serving as Apostolic Pastors at Healing Word International in Tustin, California, USA, establishing Bonginkosi Educare in Khayelitsha, South Africa which cares for over 300 impoverished children, founding KidzQuest, a children’s stage production that has traveled internationally touching over 100,000 children’s lives, partnering with over 3,000 churches in Rwanda to plant gardens that feed the community, running Christian Fellowship International, established Appeal to Heaven: forty days of prayer, and founding the March of Hope which takes Jesus to the streets of Cape Town.    

The legacy of faith that Neville and Wendy established continues to shine brightly as Wendy remains steadfast in her commitment to build the Kingdom of God no matter the cost. Through her efforts, Wendy has shared Jesus to the world, given hope to the hopeless and offered healing to those in need. Many have experienced healing, deliverance and a prophetic word as they have encountered God. Her ministry exemplifies the impact one individual, fueled by faith and compassion, can have on the world. 

Pastor Neville McDonald’s Bio 

Pastor Neville McDonald, a remarkable man driven by an unwavering love for God and people, left an indelible mark on all who encountered him. Known for his infectious warmth and genuine care, those who crossed paths with Pastor Neville universally share the sentiment that he made them feel important and valued as individuals. With a captivating sense of humour and an ever-ready story to share, he radiated an approachability that endeared him to many. 

In 1984, Pastors Neville and Wendy received a divine calling to establish a church in the City of Cape Town. Undeterred by the challenges, they embarked on a journey with a profound vision to change the world, packing up their small car and their two young children. Pastor Neville embraced the role of a rebel against the world’s standards, fearlessly taking on challenges that echoed the biblical call to preach the gospel at any cost. 

Under the mentorship of Drs. Fred and Nellie Roberts, Pastor Neville and Wendy began the humble beginnings of Good Hope Christian Centre, a place envisioned as a refuge for individuals from all walks of life, races, and backgrounds to find hope and healing through their precious Lord and Saviour. The ministry flourished through their faith, leadership, perseverance, commitment to the call, and a paternal vision that transcended circumstances. 

Pastor Neville’s rebellious spirit shone brightly when he courageously planned an outreach for people of all races during the Apartheid era, an act that led him to face potential incarceration. Yet, his unwavering commitment to God’s calling and the example of preaching the gospel despite adversity remained steadfast. The year 1999 witnessed a significant moment as a document detailing the responsibility of righteous government and the implementation of the Bill of Rights for all South Africans was delivered to Parliament, received by F.W. De Klerk. This initiative reflected Pastor Neville’s dedication to upholding human dignity and advocating for justice. 

Throughout his expansive ministry, Pastor Neville traveled with Pastor Benny Hinn and Prophet Kim Clement, leaving an indelible impact globally. He ministered in diverse settings, including Bishop Christopher Russell’s church and Pastor Rodney Howard-Browne’s congregation. His journey extended to Healing Word International in Tustin, California, USA, where he served as an Apostolic Pastor. 

Beyond the church walls, Pastor Neville’s heart for community development manifested in the establishment of Bonginkosi Educare in Khayelitsha, South Africa, caring for over 300 underprivileged children. The creation of KidzQuest, a children’s stage production, touched over 750,000 young lives globally. In Rwanda, he partnered with over 3,000 churches to plant gardens that fed the community. 

His leadership extended to establishing Appeal to Heaven: Forty days of prayer, and the founding of the March of Hope, taking the message of Jesus to the streets of Cape Town. Even in the face of adversity, Pastor Neville launched the Unlock Section 31 Campaign in 2020 to oppose an unlawful and unbiblical ban on church meetings during the Covid-19 lockdown. 

Pastor Neville McDonald, who passed away in 2020, continues to live on through his enduring legacy. His life’s work, characterised by giving hope, healing people, and unyielding faith, serves as an inspiration for all who seek to make a positive impact in the world. His legacy is a testament to the transformative power of faith, resilience, and an unwavering commitment to spreading the love of Christ.