Well, I think it is safe to say that winter is ending and summer is quickly approaching. I failed to put on sunscreen today, and after 6 solid hours in Unga (which is way too many by the way) I am burnt. Not terribly, just a little pink. I will say I am proud to say that this is my first sunburn since arriving in Africa. I usually wear sunscreen everyday, however it has been cold lately and I got out of the habit.
6 hours in Unga. Has many results, one of which is exhaustion. Even as I write this I am having a hard time thinking straight. It doesn't sound so bad, until you think of 6 hours of swahili, 6 hours of taking in the smells, the sights, the poverty, the looks in the eyes of those who are suffering, the hollaring of "mzungu" and the hollaring of many other things that are better not written here. The first half of the day was walking and praying. It was good, but it is still hard. I don't know that I will ever get used to the feeling that comes upon me as I walk into Unga. I am thankful for it, as it reminds me of the necessity of what we are doing, however it leaves me so tired. And to think, I don't live there. Those who live there have to experience it day in and day out. It isn't a wonder to me that they don't move forward.
During our walk I stopped to talk with some of the ladies who came to the vision seminar. They loved it! However, they want to know more! This is good. We are arranging to take them to a nearby village where CHE is being used first hand, so they can talk more with those who are doing CHE and hear how lives have been changed. Pray as we arrange this time.
The second half of today was introducing Peter Russell to mama Jackson. It was a lovely visit, which included a new meal to add to my list of Tanzanian foods I have eaten that I wish I had not! Dagaa is a tiny little fish. I used to alternate these fish with meat when I fed my dogs, Dagaa one night, meat the next, but I discovered my dogs would rather eat every other day than eat those little fish! I stopped giving them fish and now they eat meat every day.
Now those of you who know me well, know that I like seafood, and fish, I love sushi and will eat most any fish, but something about eating fish the size of goldfish I kept as a kid, whole, just grosses me out! So of course, I have never willfully planned to eat some. Mama Jackson knew we were coming and cooked us lunch. And yep, she cooked us dagaa. Mixed with some cooked veggies and of course partnered with Ugali.
We all ate it, and we all survived, and we can say we had a new experience, although I will say it challenged each of us. All of us have lived in Africa for more than a year, and had managed to avoid it, not so today!
Friday, August 24, 2007
Thursday, August 23, 2007
Bibi wengi (grandma many)
Last friday I took a few girls into Unga the first time. They had never been in or around Unga but had heard about it. They asked if they could join me on a walk. I hadn't planned on walking, but instead had planned on visiting the homes of those who attended the vision seminar, so instead I invited them on the home visits.
We stopped at the first house, and I am shocked by the welcome, and the greeting we received. yet again our visit to Unga was like a progressive dinner. This is always joyous, as I know that it is how they share their joy of your presence, but at the same time, I hate that I am eating food that they work so hard for, and know that even though it is ok to bring gifts, it is offensive for me to do it every time. We visited each home, talked with the ladies and got feedback from wednesday. The overall impression, it was a great seminar, but they all had questions and wanted to talk some more, but not in front of the visitors. They wanted to visit instead.
After visiting all the homes, Mama Jackson asks if we are heading home, I tell her of my plans to walk around with the girls for a little bit. She then invites us to visit Bibi.
What a treasure! We walk in and Bibi immediately starts praying! It was unlike anything I have ever seen in my life, the Spirit of the Lord was definately present, and I couldn't understand everything she said because it was a mix of Kimaa and Kiswahili, but I knew she was covering us with blessing. Here we are, three women and a little girl, who have everything we need, walking into a home of an elderly woman who has nothing, and she jumps to praise and bless. Wow. It is no wonder, when you hear about her life, that she is a prayer warrior.
She discovered Jesus when she was around 40. She is now 87. She has 7 kids, and each of her children has multiple children. Her first, has 10, the second had 5 the third 7 and I honestly lost count after that. She also has about 20 great grandchildren. She also boasts, that all of them know the Lord. She continually states that God saved her, and then saved her family. What a joy. I like surprises like these!
We stopped at the first house, and I am shocked by the welcome, and the greeting we received. yet again our visit to Unga was like a progressive dinner. This is always joyous, as I know that it is how they share their joy of your presence, but at the same time, I hate that I am eating food that they work so hard for, and know that even though it is ok to bring gifts, it is offensive for me to do it every time. We visited each home, talked with the ladies and got feedback from wednesday. The overall impression, it was a great seminar, but they all had questions and wanted to talk some more, but not in front of the visitors. They wanted to visit instead.
After visiting all the homes, Mama Jackson asks if we are heading home, I tell her of my plans to walk around with the girls for a little bit. She then invites us to visit Bibi.
What a treasure! We walk in and Bibi immediately starts praying! It was unlike anything I have ever seen in my life, the Spirit of the Lord was definately present, and I couldn't understand everything she said because it was a mix of Kimaa and Kiswahili, but I knew she was covering us with blessing. Here we are, three women and a little girl, who have everything we need, walking into a home of an elderly woman who has nothing, and she jumps to praise and bless. Wow. It is no wonder, when you hear about her life, that she is a prayer warrior.
She discovered Jesus when she was around 40. She is now 87. She has 7 kids, and each of her children has multiple children. Her first, has 10, the second had 5 the third 7 and I honestly lost count after that. She also has about 20 great grandchildren. She also boasts, that all of them know the Lord. She continually states that God saved her, and then saved her family. What a joy. I like surprises like these!
Wednesday, August 15, 2007
Now we wait.
Well folks, its all over. Our first Urban Poor Arusha Vision Seminar finished about 4 hours ago, and I must say I am rather amazed. In traditional African fashion, we started about an hour later than we planned, because people weren't ready yet.
My role today, was that of connector, everyone invited knows me, but since I had not yet done a vision seminar in Africa, Annelle and Lorivi were the actual facilitators. As I watched and observed, I was amazed at how this group of people were so enraptured by the material, by how they participated, and by their willingness to learn more and ask more questions. Lorivi is an amazing CHE instructor, he truly is a gift to our ministry, and does an amazing job of explaining CHE to the audience, regardless of who the audience is, he adapts, and does so rather well.
So now we wait. They know the vision of CHE, they know the ideas, the main concepts and the philosophy. They know that if they want to take it further, and want to form a CHE team we are willing to help them use CHE to transform their community. Now we wait. We wait and we pray for hearts to be called to use this tool. Waiting is hard. I am hoping I don't have to wait too long!
Pray that the men and women who attended todays seminar would hear the voice of God in the coming weeks. Pray that those who need to use this tool would step forward, and those who need to be supporters would support them. Pray that God would be glorified and that Unga would begin to be transformed.
My role today, was that of connector, everyone invited knows me, but since I had not yet done a vision seminar in Africa, Annelle and Lorivi were the actual facilitators. As I watched and observed, I was amazed at how this group of people were so enraptured by the material, by how they participated, and by their willingness to learn more and ask more questions. Lorivi is an amazing CHE instructor, he truly is a gift to our ministry, and does an amazing job of explaining CHE to the audience, regardless of who the audience is, he adapts, and does so rather well.
So now we wait. They know the vision of CHE, they know the ideas, the main concepts and the philosophy. They know that if they want to take it further, and want to form a CHE team we are willing to help them use CHE to transform their community. Now we wait. We wait and we pray for hearts to be called to use this tool. Waiting is hard. I am hoping I don't have to wait too long!
Pray that the men and women who attended todays seminar would hear the voice of God in the coming weeks. Pray that those who need to use this tool would step forward, and those who need to be supporters would support them. Pray that God would be glorified and that Unga would begin to be transformed.
Tuesday, August 14, 2007
Vision Seminar Update
Tomorrow is the day! Our First Urban Poor Arusha Vision Seminar! The list is in, the attendees have committed, the facilitators are getting ready, and yes, I am a little nervous!
Pray for the following:
The vision of CHE to be cast effectively.
For God to raise up people who would catch the vision and wanna run with it.
For any barriers that might keep attendees from coming to be removed!
Those Facilitating:
Lorivi, Annelle, Pam and Kendra
Those Attending:
Mama Jackson
Mama Ibram
Mama Fatuma
Mama Diwani
Diwani
Mary
Mama Miriamu
Mama Mbona
Neema Michael
Flora Mkiwa
Monika Ndomondo
Robat Lekisinga
Prosista Benadi
Agustino Avenanc
Pray for the following:
The vision of CHE to be cast effectively.
For God to raise up people who would catch the vision and wanna run with it.
For any barriers that might keep attendees from coming to be removed!
Those Facilitating:
Lorivi, Annelle, Pam and Kendra
Those Attending:
Mama Jackson
Mama Ibram
Mama Fatuma
Mama Diwani
Diwani
Mary
Mama Miriamu
Mama Mbona
Neema Michael
Flora Mkiwa
Monika Ndomondo
Robat Lekisinga
Prosista Benadi
Agustino Avenanc
Cooking lessons.
I brought them much laughter. That is the best way to summarize the day. Last week I had mentioned to Mama Jackson that I had never really cooked Ugali and Mboga (the green veggies). She was horrified and insisted on teaching me, saying she couldn't allow me to live in Tanzania and me not know how to cook such a staple meal! We planned for today to be my cooking lesson.
I arrived a few minutes late, to find that I was going to have an audience. I brought the incredients I was to provide, through the door and found 3 other women who were interested in watching this white girl cook Tanzanian style! It was hysterical really. They do everything differently, from cleaning the lettuce like veggie we would cook, to cutting the tomatoes, to cutting the onion. They of course wanted to see if this girl could hack it, and honestly having an audience made me incredibly nervous! I thought I could mess up in front of Mama Jackson, but these ladies, I only knew one of them, and well, it would be rather embarassing if I failed miserably.
They laughed and I laughed at each step. I was like a 3 year old helping her mama. She literally showed me how they shred lettuce without a cutting board, and how to mince onion with nothing but your hands and a dull, mind you, very dull knife. It was loads of fun.
Afterwards, we ate, and man did we eat! And all of them women came to try my meal. Glad to say I have passed the test. They invited me back to cook anytime!
I was also able to visit the women attending tomorrows Vision Seminar, it was fun to greet them and them ask me if we were still on for tomorrow before I even had a chance to remind them!
I arrived a few minutes late, to find that I was going to have an audience. I brought the incredients I was to provide, through the door and found 3 other women who were interested in watching this white girl cook Tanzanian style! It was hysterical really. They do everything differently, from cleaning the lettuce like veggie we would cook, to cutting the tomatoes, to cutting the onion. They of course wanted to see if this girl could hack it, and honestly having an audience made me incredibly nervous! I thought I could mess up in front of Mama Jackson, but these ladies, I only knew one of them, and well, it would be rather embarassing if I failed miserably.
They laughed and I laughed at each step. I was like a 3 year old helping her mama. She literally showed me how they shred lettuce without a cutting board, and how to mince onion with nothing but your hands and a dull, mind you, very dull knife. It was loads of fun.
Afterwards, we ate, and man did we eat! And all of them women came to try my meal. Glad to say I have passed the test. They invited me back to cook anytime!
I was also able to visit the women attending tomorrows Vision Seminar, it was fun to greet them and them ask me if we were still on for tomorrow before I even had a chance to remind them!
Monday, August 13, 2007
Small Groups
Today Lorivi and I cast away the idea that Saturdays were for resting and went to Unga. We had been invited to visit some of the small groups of women with HIV/AIDS that have been meeting in Unga Limited for the last year. We were invited to visit, but we also were given the platform to share a little bit about CHE.
We showed up at Mama Diwani's home at the agreed upon time. 9am. We were told the small groups started at 9, and that we would meet her and she would take us to a few groups. I somehow forgot, that this is Africa. I started to get frustrated around 10, when we were still at Mama Diwani's house waiting for her to get ready.
Around 10:30 we headed out to the first group meeting. On our way there we passed some women on the road and discovered that the first group we were heading too had already finished, and we were too late. AGH! I was so frustrated, but hid my frustration as we made plans to come back next weekend.
We headed to the second group, and my attitude changed. It was under a barn-like structure where we encountered some 20-30 women who are suffering from HIV/AIDS. I somehow forgot swahili as they invited me forward to address the women. I stumbled through and recovered nicely. It was exciting to share the vision, to hear the women laugh, and to feel the excitement in the room.
The vision seminar is this week. So far we have 15 men and women, mostly women, from two sections of Unga Limited planning on attending. Pray for these men and women, that they can catch the vision for CHE. Pray for us to adequately share the vision.
We showed up at Mama Diwani's home at the agreed upon time. 9am. We were told the small groups started at 9, and that we would meet her and she would take us to a few groups. I somehow forgot, that this is Africa. I started to get frustrated around 10, when we were still at Mama Diwani's house waiting for her to get ready.
Around 10:30 we headed out to the first group meeting. On our way there we passed some women on the road and discovered that the first group we were heading too had already finished, and we were too late. AGH! I was so frustrated, but hid my frustration as we made plans to come back next weekend.
We headed to the second group, and my attitude changed. It was under a barn-like structure where we encountered some 20-30 women who are suffering from HIV/AIDS. I somehow forgot swahili as they invited me forward to address the women. I stumbled through and recovered nicely. It was exciting to share the vision, to hear the women laugh, and to feel the excitement in the room.
The vision seminar is this week. So far we have 15 men and women, mostly women, from two sections of Unga Limited planning on attending. Pray for these men and women, that they can catch the vision for CHE. Pray for us to adequately share the vision.
Friday, August 10, 2007
The progressive breakfast
As promised, Kendra and I returned to Unga today. Specifically to spent time having chai with Mama Jackson. We arrived on time (Mama Jackson values timeliness) and she greeted us warmly. We talked about the weather (it has been freezing here) and talked about a passage she shared with us on Tuesday (yes, she is teaching me about Jesus too) and then she brought out chai, and sweet potatoes. We ate, we fellowshipped, we chatted, it was a joy! We had so much fun shooting the breeze and sharing life. She told us about a child who has been really sick the last two weeks. We decided to go visit the mama and pray for the almost 2 year old. We headed out, but discovered the mama had left to take the child to the hospital.
Next stop Mama Ibram's home. Who had also punished us on Tuesday for being in a hurry. More chai. More laughter. More food. We were already full, but you can't refuse, it is rude, and we were earning our forgiveness! It again felt like old friends at a tea party.
Next stop Mama Fatuma's home. Where we again, laugh, and talk about life. This time, an alternative to chai, Sprite. Kendra and I are both beyond full, from multiple cups of chai in the last 1.5 hours and fried sweet potatoes, fried cassava (another potato like snack) so we convince her to let us share a soda. Her daughters come in and enjoy some time with us, her oldest (about 5) sings us a song in english, absolutely precious! The youngest (1.5 yrs) does her tasks of interupting her big sister and stealing attention.
Each stop was a blessing, an encouragement, and a challenge. All these ladies mentioned that things have been taking place in Unga these last few weeks. Witch Doctors are everywhere, and people are going to them often, and that they themselves, are feeling the attack of the enemy, but trusting Jesus to keep them. They are all thrilled about next weeks vision seminar!
Pray for Unga. Pray for the women we have been sharing time and space with. Pray for their families, pray against the witch doctors, pray for the light of Christ to shine brightly in this area. Pray Isaiah 58 and Ezekiel 36 for this community. PRAY!
Next stop Mama Ibram's home. Who had also punished us on Tuesday for being in a hurry. More chai. More laughter. More food. We were already full, but you can't refuse, it is rude, and we were earning our forgiveness! It again felt like old friends at a tea party.
Next stop Mama Fatuma's home. Where we again, laugh, and talk about life. This time, an alternative to chai, Sprite. Kendra and I are both beyond full, from multiple cups of chai in the last 1.5 hours and fried sweet potatoes, fried cassava (another potato like snack) so we convince her to let us share a soda. Her daughters come in and enjoy some time with us, her oldest (about 5) sings us a song in english, absolutely precious! The youngest (1.5 yrs) does her tasks of interupting her big sister and stealing attention.
Each stop was a blessing, an encouragement, and a challenge. All these ladies mentioned that things have been taking place in Unga these last few weeks. Witch Doctors are everywhere, and people are going to them often, and that they themselves, are feeling the attack of the enemy, but trusting Jesus to keep them. They are all thrilled about next weeks vision seminar!
Pray for Unga. Pray for the women we have been sharing time and space with. Pray for their families, pray against the witch doctors, pray for the light of Christ to shine brightly in this area. Pray Isaiah 58 and Ezekiel 36 for this community. PRAY!
Wednesday, August 8, 2007
Catching Up.
Every month or so (as things happen) Scott, Annelle and I gather together to review what has been accomplished in Unga, what steps I need to take, what things I still need to discover from research, etc. Some might call it strategic planning, we like to call it a lunch meeting.
Today God gave us a special gift, my new teammate Kendra could finally attend one of these meetings! The urban portion of our team doubled in size over the last week! In celebration of Kendra being there, and because she has little clue of what has taken place over the last several months, Scott pulled out all the notes, hung them on the wall (they are on butcher paper) and I got to walk Kendra down the Unga path, the path that doesn't get your feet all muddy.
As I walked her down the road this journey has taken Me, Katie, Delia, Elsa, Jackie, Hillary, Amber, Scott, Annelle, Todd, Tami, and so many others on, I stood amazed. In March of 2007 I met with Scott and Annelle alone, as we brainstormed how to enter Unga. Since that time, God has done so much, SO MUCH, he has brought people in to walk and pray with me, He has provided entry points, He has answered questions.... See for yourself:
Early March 2007
We created a list of all the things we could think of pertaining to urban poor, poverty, Unga, Ministry, CHE...you name it. The list was overwhelming. We came out of it with a vision from Isaiah 58 and Ezekiel 36 to allow God to reveal His glory and holyness through rebuilding, repairing and restoring the community of Unga Limited. But we didn't know how. We didn't know who, we didn't know where to begin. We left with more questions than answers, and as I left, Scott in his most encouraging voice said, "Pam you do know this might take 6-9 months to accomplish." I wasn't so encouraged. Katie and I started praying the truths of the passages as we walked through Unga. And God started showing us some pretty cool stuff. Would you pray these passages for Unga?
May 7, 2007 (Monthy meetings eh?) Life happens.
We pulled out the old list. WOW! Katie and I were both surprised! We added to the last list, but also took note of things we had seen since March, gardens that were flourishing, as well as the porn shops right across the way. We took note of the oppression, of the lack of men working, the number of children running around in the streets, and we also took note of the mud, the poor sanitation, and just the general feeling of hopelessness and despair. We left the meeting, a little encouraged, as well with some more definate direction for our walks and our research. Would you keep praying as the vision unfolds?
August 8, 2007
My oh MY! The discoveries! Some demographics have been gathered, although the survey we keep trying to put out there goes unfilled. We know that in Sokoke I there are about 55,000 people trying to live. We have met Mama Diwani and discovered the 600 women already meeting in small groups who are an excellent possibility for CHE. We met Mama Jackson, you know all about Mama Jackson! We have continued to meet Mary and Msuya the local pastors. We have developed stronger relationships with the Compassion Project based at Mary and Msuyas church. We have been blown away by what God has done! He helped us to be patient, he lead us beside still waters (did I mention that there is a river running right by Mama Jacksons place...fun little tidbit there). He has proven Himself faithful (as if he really needed to). We have met many other mamas who want to hear about CHE and we have a Vision Seminar to share with the hope of CHE next week!
Vision Seminar Details:
August 15, 2007
9 AM-1PMish
Attendees:
Mama Jackson
Mama Ibram
Mama Fatuma
Mama Mbona
Mama Miriamu (a landlord who owns much property in the area)
Mary (pastors wife)
Mama Diwani (Counselor's Wife)
Diwani (Counselor himself)
7 women from the HIV/AIDS small groups.
WOW! Look at that! Amazing! We have women passionate for the gospel as well as small group leaders and not only that, but powerful community players as well!
WOW! I stand amazed.
Will you consider praying, or even fasting for this upcoming vision seminar?
Today God gave us a special gift, my new teammate Kendra could finally attend one of these meetings! The urban portion of our team doubled in size over the last week! In celebration of Kendra being there, and because she has little clue of what has taken place over the last several months, Scott pulled out all the notes, hung them on the wall (they are on butcher paper) and I got to walk Kendra down the Unga path, the path that doesn't get your feet all muddy.
As I walked her down the road this journey has taken Me, Katie, Delia, Elsa, Jackie, Hillary, Amber, Scott, Annelle, Todd, Tami, and so many others on, I stood amazed. In March of 2007 I met with Scott and Annelle alone, as we brainstormed how to enter Unga. Since that time, God has done so much, SO MUCH, he has brought people in to walk and pray with me, He has provided entry points, He has answered questions.... See for yourself:
Early March 2007
We created a list of all the things we could think of pertaining to urban poor, poverty, Unga, Ministry, CHE...you name it. The list was overwhelming. We came out of it with a vision from Isaiah 58 and Ezekiel 36 to allow God to reveal His glory and holyness through rebuilding, repairing and restoring the community of Unga Limited. But we didn't know how. We didn't know who, we didn't know where to begin. We left with more questions than answers, and as I left, Scott in his most encouraging voice said, "Pam you do know this might take 6-9 months to accomplish." I wasn't so encouraged. Katie and I started praying the truths of the passages as we walked through Unga. And God started showing us some pretty cool stuff. Would you pray these passages for Unga?
May 7, 2007 (Monthy meetings eh?) Life happens.
We pulled out the old list. WOW! Katie and I were both surprised! We added to the last list, but also took note of things we had seen since March, gardens that were flourishing, as well as the porn shops right across the way. We took note of the oppression, of the lack of men working, the number of children running around in the streets, and we also took note of the mud, the poor sanitation, and just the general feeling of hopelessness and despair. We left the meeting, a little encouraged, as well with some more definate direction for our walks and our research. Would you keep praying as the vision unfolds?
August 8, 2007
My oh MY! The discoveries! Some demographics have been gathered, although the survey we keep trying to put out there goes unfilled. We know that in Sokoke I there are about 55,000 people trying to live. We have met Mama Diwani and discovered the 600 women already meeting in small groups who are an excellent possibility for CHE. We met Mama Jackson, you know all about Mama Jackson! We have continued to meet Mary and Msuya the local pastors. We have developed stronger relationships with the Compassion Project based at Mary and Msuyas church. We have been blown away by what God has done! He helped us to be patient, he lead us beside still waters (did I mention that there is a river running right by Mama Jacksons place...fun little tidbit there). He has proven Himself faithful (as if he really needed to). We have met many other mamas who want to hear about CHE and we have a Vision Seminar to share with the hope of CHE next week!
Vision Seminar Details:
August 15, 2007
9 AM-1PMish
Attendees:
Mama Jackson
Mama Ibram
Mama Fatuma
Mama Mbona
Mama Miriamu (a landlord who owns much property in the area)
Mary (pastors wife)
Mama Diwani (Counselor's Wife)
Diwani (Counselor himself)
7 women from the HIV/AIDS small groups.
WOW! Look at that! Amazing! We have women passionate for the gospel as well as small group leaders and not only that, but powerful community players as well!
WOW! I stand amazed.
Will you consider praying, or even fasting for this upcoming vision seminar?
Tuesday, August 7, 2007
Our Cultures Collide!
We messed up huge today. I was needing to go visit Mama Jackson, and Kendra was needing to meet Mama Jackson, so we went, however, we had a time crunch. There are many things that needed to be accomplished outside of Unga this week, as part of getting Kendra settled, and also catching up on stuff that didn't get done over the last few months with the REACH interns.
So we had a time limit. We went straight to Mama Jacksons home, and I introduced her to Kendra. We were only planning on visiting her, and I just wanted to check in. Not only did we have a time crunch, but we stopped by unannounced, which in African culture, usually isn't a problem. Mama Jackson welcomed us warmly, and then gave me a stern talking to, "Pam, you should have told me you were coming, I haven't any chai (tea) or bites (snacks) to offer our guest!" Oops! I told her it was ok, Kendra wasn't expecting any chai or bites, but that she was just wanting to meet Mama Jackson.
On our way out, after being scolded for being in such a hurry, we saw several other Mama's who have become friends who also scolded us for not stopping for chai and said we must come back later in the week to share chai and bites so they can really get to know Kendra. We committed to come back on Thursday.
Something interesting that happened while visiting Mama Jackson, is that we got into a converstation about Spiritual Warfare. She mentioned that things have been bothering her in the night, (remember my nights last week, fighting) and she quickly said, "But we know that if anything comes to bother us sent by Satan, it has no power, so I just wake up and Pray and Jesus takes care of them. There seems to be an increase in this, which leads me to believe that the spiritual realm is beginning to get a little disturbed with God's unfolding plan. I mention this, as I know our battle is not against flesh and blood and our weapons are not the typical weapons of war, (2 Corinthians 10:1-8, Ephesians 6:10-20)and I encourage you guys to be praying earnestly for the battle that we are up against, that you would be praying the truth of Christ for this community and that people would find freedom in Him, and Life, abundant life.
So we had a time limit. We went straight to Mama Jacksons home, and I introduced her to Kendra. We were only planning on visiting her, and I just wanted to check in. Not only did we have a time crunch, but we stopped by unannounced, which in African culture, usually isn't a problem. Mama Jackson welcomed us warmly, and then gave me a stern talking to, "Pam, you should have told me you were coming, I haven't any chai (tea) or bites (snacks) to offer our guest!" Oops! I told her it was ok, Kendra wasn't expecting any chai or bites, but that she was just wanting to meet Mama Jackson.
On our way out, after being scolded for being in such a hurry, we saw several other Mama's who have become friends who also scolded us for not stopping for chai and said we must come back later in the week to share chai and bites so they can really get to know Kendra. We committed to come back on Thursday.
Something interesting that happened while visiting Mama Jackson, is that we got into a converstation about Spiritual Warfare. She mentioned that things have been bothering her in the night, (remember my nights last week, fighting) and she quickly said, "But we know that if anything comes to bother us sent by Satan, it has no power, so I just wake up and Pray and Jesus takes care of them. There seems to be an increase in this, which leads me to believe that the spiritual realm is beginning to get a little disturbed with God's unfolding plan. I mention this, as I know our battle is not against flesh and blood and our weapons are not the typical weapons of war, (2 Corinthians 10:1-8, Ephesians 6:10-20)and I encourage you guys to be praying earnestly for the battle that we are up against, that you would be praying the truth of Christ for this community and that people would find freedom in Him, and Life, abundant life.
Monday, August 6, 2007
Mama Diwani
Our second stop, was to introduce Kendra to Mama Diwani. Mama Diwani is married to the counselor (much like the mayor) of Sokone I, a subsection of Unga. Mama Diwani is a dynamic woman.
A few weeks back I shared of my day visiting women with HIV/AIDS with Mama Diwani. She currently has about 600 women in Sokone I alone, who are meeting in small groups to provide each other with support and encouragement as they live with this deadly virus. Many of these women are single mothers, many of them unemployed, and many of them seeing life as a death sentence, but together, they realize they can go farther. I can see how CHE can transform these groups from just being groups of words of encouragement to groups that give LIFE! I have shared CHE with many of the ladies, and many of them eagerly asked, where do we sign up!
In talking with Lorivi, we decided that Mama Diwani and a few of the group leaders should also attend this upcoming Vision Seminar. So Kendra and I went to visit her, one so Kendra could meet her, and two, so we could invite some of the ladies to the vision seminar. Without hesitation, she committed, and also said, I think Michael (the counselor) should come too. I will see if he is free!
It has been fun for me, to see God unfold His plan here. None of this has been on my strength or my power, but just Him, leading, opening doors, inviting conversations and bringing it to fruition. He is so good isn't He?
A few weeks back I shared of my day visiting women with HIV/AIDS with Mama Diwani. She currently has about 600 women in Sokone I alone, who are meeting in small groups to provide each other with support and encouragement as they live with this deadly virus. Many of these women are single mothers, many of them unemployed, and many of them seeing life as a death sentence, but together, they realize they can go farther. I can see how CHE can transform these groups from just being groups of words of encouragement to groups that give LIFE! I have shared CHE with many of the ladies, and many of them eagerly asked, where do we sign up!
In talking with Lorivi, we decided that Mama Diwani and a few of the group leaders should also attend this upcoming Vision Seminar. So Kendra and I went to visit her, one so Kendra could meet her, and two, so we could invite some of the ladies to the vision seminar. Without hesitation, she committed, and also said, I think Michael (the counselor) should come too. I will see if he is free!
It has been fun for me, to see God unfold His plan here. None of this has been on my strength or my power, but just Him, leading, opening doors, inviting conversations and bringing it to fruition. He is so good isn't He?
Kendra's Second Visit.
Last October, Kendra was with me prayer walking in Unga. It was that day that we both felt the Lord leading us to Mary and Msuya, local pastors who are doing a lot, A LOT in their community! Today was Kendra's first time back.
We stopped by to visit the church, mostly because I was running errands and needed to pick up some things, and drop some things off. And of course, the quick stop, turned into a longer visit! It was a joy to talk to Mary, to catch up on their life (she has been in school so every time I have stopped by I saw only the kids.) I re-introduced her to Kendra, and we talked about the upcoming Vision Seminar. I invited her, and asked if we could use the church as a facility for the day. She willingly agreed. On our way out, Msuya came in, and I can honestly say I don't think I have ever seen someone so tired and ragged. He is on a break from school himself, but that doesn't mean he isn't working, if anything, he is working harder. Crusades. Prayer meetings. Visits to his congregation, it never stops for Msuya.
Pray for Mary and Msuya. Pray for us as we continue to build relationship with them. Pray for the many things going on in their community, and in their church.
We stopped by to visit the church, mostly because I was running errands and needed to pick up some things, and drop some things off. And of course, the quick stop, turned into a longer visit! It was a joy to talk to Mary, to catch up on their life (she has been in school so every time I have stopped by I saw only the kids.) I re-introduced her to Kendra, and we talked about the upcoming Vision Seminar. I invited her, and asked if we could use the church as a facility for the day. She willingly agreed. On our way out, Msuya came in, and I can honestly say I don't think I have ever seen someone so tired and ragged. He is on a break from school himself, but that doesn't mean he isn't working, if anything, he is working harder. Crusades. Prayer meetings. Visits to his congregation, it never stops for Msuya.
Pray for Mary and Msuya. Pray for us as we continue to build relationship with them. Pray for the many things going on in their community, and in their church.
Friday, August 3, 2007
She challenges me..
That Mama Jackson...she is something else!
She blesses me, encourages me, and challenges me! You gotta stay on your toes around her. I was supposed to stop by tuesday, but failed to as the car situation caused havoc on my day and prepping the interns to head home. I called an apologized, and she jokingly said, "Pam you gotta keep your committments!" I love that she feels comfortable enough to joke with me! I told her I would stop by on Thursday.
Thursday we had our budget meeting, it started 45 minutes late, and ran way over, so I reluctantly sent her a message that I yet again, wasn't gonna make it, but committed that I would be there Friday morning.
So this morning I arrive and she tells me that I missed out on a feast the other day when my car broke down. She had prepared a meal and she and the kids and I were gonna celebrate what God is doing in Unga. Celebrate? Wow! She is catching a vision! I apologized profusely, and was filled with deep regret over missing the celebration! We talked about the meeting on Thursday and why it was late to get started and why I couldn't come by. She voiced her frustation with late people (I took mental note) and I wondered, is she African? Cause really, it is normal here for people to show up when they can, not the time agreed upon. We had a really nice chat, and then she said she prepared some chai and sweet potatoes.
This right here, this conversation over tea like we were old friends blessed me. We talked about everything under the sun. My mom, my dad, my brother (I really should bring pictures to share), we talked about my wheat problem (this was brought up last time too, which she pointed out that she intentionally made the sweet potatoes cause she remembered I couldn't eat the bread that is usually served with tea.), we talked about CHE, about Katie, about the interns, about safari companies, everything we could think of. It was great fun. Another thing I really appreciate, is she has no qualms what so ever correcting my swahili, and not only did she correct my swahili, she told me that from today on out, when I am with her, I am gonna pray in swahili (we pray before tea, its customary) because she knows that if I just try I can do it! HA!
Starting today. She informed me of all this, and took the posture of prayer. Waiting. On me. To pray in swahili. HA!
I will spare you the details, but I immediately felt like a 3 year old whose mama says, "Ok honey, now its your turn to tell Jesus thank you." I am sure I sounded like one too. It was a riot.
Things in Unga are progessing. There are 3 ladies coming to the vision seminar with Mama Jackson, and we have a group from the HIV/AIDS project I visited last week. It is exciting and a bit overwhelming to think about it all finally coming together! Be praying for these ladies, that nothing would get in the way of their physically attending, and nothing would get in the way of their hearts catching the vision!
She blesses me, encourages me, and challenges me! You gotta stay on your toes around her. I was supposed to stop by tuesday, but failed to as the car situation caused havoc on my day and prepping the interns to head home. I called an apologized, and she jokingly said, "Pam you gotta keep your committments!" I love that she feels comfortable enough to joke with me! I told her I would stop by on Thursday.
Thursday we had our budget meeting, it started 45 minutes late, and ran way over, so I reluctantly sent her a message that I yet again, wasn't gonna make it, but committed that I would be there Friday morning.
So this morning I arrive and she tells me that I missed out on a feast the other day when my car broke down. She had prepared a meal and she and the kids and I were gonna celebrate what God is doing in Unga. Celebrate? Wow! She is catching a vision! I apologized profusely, and was filled with deep regret over missing the celebration! We talked about the meeting on Thursday and why it was late to get started and why I couldn't come by. She voiced her frustation with late people (I took mental note) and I wondered, is she African? Cause really, it is normal here for people to show up when they can, not the time agreed upon. We had a really nice chat, and then she said she prepared some chai and sweet potatoes.
This right here, this conversation over tea like we were old friends blessed me. We talked about everything under the sun. My mom, my dad, my brother (I really should bring pictures to share), we talked about my wheat problem (this was brought up last time too, which she pointed out that she intentionally made the sweet potatoes cause she remembered I couldn't eat the bread that is usually served with tea.), we talked about CHE, about Katie, about the interns, about safari companies, everything we could think of. It was great fun. Another thing I really appreciate, is she has no qualms what so ever correcting my swahili, and not only did she correct my swahili, she told me that from today on out, when I am with her, I am gonna pray in swahili (we pray before tea, its customary) because she knows that if I just try I can do it! HA!
Starting today. She informed me of all this, and took the posture of prayer. Waiting. On me. To pray in swahili. HA!
I will spare you the details, but I immediately felt like a 3 year old whose mama says, "Ok honey, now its your turn to tell Jesus thank you." I am sure I sounded like one too. It was a riot.
Things in Unga are progessing. There are 3 ladies coming to the vision seminar with Mama Jackson, and we have a group from the HIV/AIDS project I visited last week. It is exciting and a bit overwhelming to think about it all finally coming together! Be praying for these ladies, that nothing would get in the way of their physically attending, and nothing would get in the way of their hearts catching the vision!
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