January 31, 2010
Well, yesterday was Sunday and with that came church plans. There are several churches that we could have gone to, but we ended up going to Christina’s church. That ended up working out really well because we were all pretty tired from climbing Mt. Kipkannur the day before. I know right? With a name like Kip how bad can it be? Anyway, I was pretty happy when I found out the church was close by!
The second we stepped inside the gate it struck me how much different churches in our area are compared to this one. It was a single-room building with chairs and benches lined in back-to-back rows. Also, their service started with a chorus of songs sung by the cutest kids you’ll ever see!
Everyone we met was really friendly and inviting, but I’m finding that’s how it is with most Kenyans. Their worship music had a freedom and joy to it that I thought was really cool! Worship definitely transcends language and culture differences and I feel really blessed to have experienced that here.
One thing though: apparently it’s normal for “wazungu” visitors to be ushered up front and introduce themselves to the congregation. When I write "Kenyan Churches for Dummies" this will be the second chapter, right after the one about chai and its place in society.
Speaking of sweet and creamy goodness– I’m starting to see that it’s really the way to go if you want to make friends and influence people! We were all invited to stay after the service and drink chai tea with some of the elders and teachers. Anyway, I really enjoyed my first Kenyan church experience!
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That is so great that you guys got to experience an authentic Kenyan church service. I take it that the service was in Kiswahili rather than in English? Are your muscles a tad sore after that climb? Love you - Mom/Lois
ReplyDeleteSounds like a great Sunday worshiping with other believers half way around the world. I heard you all have been learning Kiswahili, so you probably didn't need an interpreter, Right?! You always have Aaron who can greet the people with a friendly "seven". I'm looking forward to having some of this chai that you guys have mastered. I've heard it's good for soar muscles too! Enjoy your week. Love and prayers, Mom/Cheri'
ReplyDeleteInstead of posting on here and being all serious and stuff, i just have one thing to say:
ReplyDelete"Speaking of Sweet and Creamy Goodness."
hahaha I LOVE YOU HANNAH AND MISS YOU GUYS!!!
it sounds pretty sweet in Kenya. climbing mountains and going to a church other than WCC, thats pretty cool. its good to hear how you liked the worship and overall experience. Hope you're having fun!
ReplyDelete-Taylor M.
Hanna thanks for the post. It is great that you four young adults are enjoying your trip. I’m not sure this old man could go with the flow as well as you guys.
ReplyDeleteGrandma Charlotte and I are praying for all of you and are anxious to see you in June or sooner.
Maybe we can have Chai tea with the tacos at Bethany’s graduation bash.
Love Grandpa and Grandma Charlotte.
People are people and our God is God anywhere. Other things Like language and food and drink are incidental. I am so thrilled you have this opportunity. Prayerfully, Grandma Coral
ReplyDeleteHahaha. "speaking of sweet creamy goodness..." classic. I think that your third chapter should be about the social leverage of obama-gum. Haha
ReplyDeleteLove you lots, miss you a little.
Seven,
Leah
I'll buy a copy of that book. Praying for all of you often.
ReplyDeleteDave