Ah, Sunday

Greetings, all! I skimmed Jon's latest blog; and he was absolutely right on with his descriptions of the worship service this morning. Ida sat next to me; and I kept pumping her with questions. The women's group on the right up front and dressed in red and white was the Women's Christian Fellowship, or Anamoyo. The men on the left front and dressed in red jackets and red ties were the Men's Christian Fellowship, of which Keith is a member. Jon asked if the men were supposed to sit on the left with the men and the women on the right. Thankfully, that was not the case. Also in attendance was the Girl's Brigade dressed a bit like Girl Scouts but with a blue hat and blue skirt with a white blouse. The girls actually led the worship service and did a good job. Then, there was that amazing choir. Think David William's Abyssinian (sp?) church choir. Lots of wonderful sound from few members with much energy and movement.....looked like 4 men on drums, 4 or 5 male voices, maybe 8-10 female voices, and a dynamic director like our amazing Marv. Every group sang and did a bit of dancing, with the choir and the women's group doing the most. At one point, we all got up and danced. I mentioned to Ida that I thought we might 'dance' up our offering, which some African friends have told Don and me is quite frequent. She said we could not, as the 'Chief' was present. When I asked why, she explained that we could not be higher than he was.......in rank, status, or stature. As he was sitting down the entire time, she said we would have had to crawl up to give the offering. Interesting! She implied that the service might have been longer (it was only 2 hours) and more energetic, if he had NOT been present. We may still have a change to meet him. And, I believe the choir is coming over tomorrow night to serenade us. Ida just confirmed that for me. More fantastic music!

The market place is truly the gathering spot, along with the open sports fields between town and the school. Tons of kids were on the latter, while adults and families were at market. Very laid back and casual lounging and selling. A bit more intensity on the fields with lots of fun, too. Refreshing! This afternoon, those who wanted, were able to go for a 'mercora' (sp?) boat ride.....the carved out wooden canoe-like boats. Charles, one of the night watchmen at the mission, was our guide. He STANDS in the back and paddles from side to side with amazing agility and balance. Of course, the paddle is a very long one!

Surprisingly, I shall keep this short and sign off for now.
Lots of love and hugs to you all,
Pam