Article source: JOY! Magazine
In December 2015, what began as a family vacation to Singapore turned into a life-altering mission for Dominic and Alidia Symes. Singapore, a beloved and familiar travel destination for the Symes family, had always been a place of spiritual refreshment – especially attending services at New Creation Church under the teaching of Pastor Joseph Prince. His messages on grace and the healing power of Holy Communion had long left a mark on their hearts.
But during that particular trip, something shifted. After one especially transformative sermon on the power of communion, the couple received news that would forever change their course: Dominic’s father had been diagnosed with cancer.
A decision to step out in faith
Rather than retreat in fear, Dominic and Alidia leant deeper into their faith. Inspired by the message they had just received, they became convinced that the healing power of Jesus’ blood – symbolised through communion – needed to be made accessible, not just to the few, but to the most unreachable parts of Africa. Their mission was born: Heal our land.
Faith, sacrifice, and a prophetic journey
Determined to make this vision a reality, they began researching how to create pre-filled communion cups – simple, hygienic, and ready-to-use for any setting. But sourcing the right packaging machine proved nearly impossible. For over a year, they scoured the globe and attended trade shows in search of a solution.
In a pivotal moment of obedience, Alidia – sensing the Holy Spirit’s direction – suggested cancelling a long-planned trip to Greece. She believed God was guiding them abroad for something greater. Trusting her prophetic leading, Dominic agreed. With prayers from their home church, Linc Church in Ballito, they stepped into the unknown. Two days into a major trade show, a divine encounter changed everything. Though no one had exactly what they were looking for, a woman they met connected them to someone who did. Barriers of language and geography fell away, and soon, with design modifications, their first communion cup machine was on its way to South Africa.
Building The Miracle Meal
With the machine secured, the couple knew they couldn’t fulfil the vision alone. God brought Mike and Cindy Jahnig alongside them – respected voices in the local community, and kindred spirits in purpose. Together, The Miracle Meal RSA was launched, with a mandate to deliver communion to communities across the continent.
Dominic, drawing on his expertise as a mechanical engineer, took charge of production. It wasn’t without challenges – packaging materials, machine calibration, and distribution hurdles – but they pushed through, fuelled by conviction and prayer. The Miracle Meal began its quiet revolution – one cup, one church, one village at a time.
A vision expands to the nations
With South Africa established, the family’s love for travel led them to explore opportunities in the United States. As they connected with local churches and shared their story, interest grew. Once again, God orchestrated relationships – this time leading them to Farrukh and Huma Azim, owners of a successful food packaging company.
In a simple handshake, a profound partnership was sealed. In November 2019, the first Miracle Meal machine arrived on US soil. Alidia, once again led by a quiet prompting from the Holy Spirit, chose to extend their stay in America beyond February 2020. That choice would prove providential – just weeks later, COVID-19 closed borders around the world.
God’s timing!
As the pandemic escalated, demand for safe, sanitary communion solutions surged. The Miracle Meal, with its germ-free design and spiritual significance, offered churches a timely and powerful way to continue communion despite restrictions. The brand gained rapid traction, becoming a household name across churches in the US and beyond.
The message behind the miracle
Today, The Miracle Meal has expanded into global markets, touching lives across continents. But behind the logistics and manufacturing lies a greater truth: this was never just a business. It was – and is – a move of God. The story of The Miracle Meal is a story of obedience. Of hearing God, believing His prompting, and obeying His instruction. Because the truth is this: when we surrender fully to God’s will, He multiplies our capacity to fulfil our purpose. The Symes family stands as living proof that faith – when followed through with action – can change the world.
ALL GLORY TO GOD ALONE!
This article is featured in the July issue of JOY! Magazine. Read a digital version of this magazine here: joygifts.co.za
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Date published: 22/06/2025
Feature image: The Miracle Meal communion cups
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