The Gethsemane and St. Stephen's groups have successfully returned to Iringa after staying two nights in Ruaha. We will stay the night and then leave for Dar es Salaam in the morning.
We hope everyone is well at home.
Wednesday, June 30, 2010
Monday, June 28, 2010
St. Stephen's Monday Update
(This is written by Dean and Tracy}
Well it is Sunday morning we are getting ready for church this morning. Dean and I have to both do the sermon (yes you can all stop laughing now!) The village is a place filled with much joy, singing and a love of the Lord. On Thursday we had quite a welcome….we were met about 1-½ miles from the church by children with signs and singing. Dean and I hopped out to walk, OK dance with them. A little further up the road teenagers joined us, then the Mama’s then the Baba’s. When all were gathered there was traditional dancing of praise and thanksgiving! Pastor John and Garrett when you see the videos and hear the music that we have experienced Dean and I may need more movement in church….we cannot wait to show all of you the video’s (with sound) of the musical experience we have had. On Friday we went to all the preaching points that make up the Ihimbo area. Our Pastor Zabron must get to the points on foot or bike----it took us over 1-½ hours by Land Cruiser to get to the farthest point! Pastor Zabron has not asked for (but the head of the south area has suggested) how much easier it would be if he had a motorbike. That is certainly something that Dean and I also see the need for after our travels. Each preaching point (Mtaa Wa) is very different. We traveled into the mountains (rocky hills) and saw churches that were constructed by the church members by making bricks, carrying stones and than making the structure as a congregation. Each was different and unique. At each of the stops we were fed and had Chai tea. Yes 6 times we had to eat and drink!!!! WE will certainly share in more detail about each point and how the Bega Kwa Bega money has helped and what the future plans are for each point. Today is the day that gifts are given during service. The bikes will be presented. The alter cloths given and then crosses handed out to the children! I am sure we are in for quite an experience. I must get out into the common area as they are preparing for breakfast. We cannot wait to share the pictures (thousands by now!) videos (many!) and audio that we have taken. We think that you will enjoy the experience as much as we have! Blessings to all back home and see you in about a week.
--------
Today (Sunday) was a happy day and a sad day. After a quick breakfast we walked to Ihimbo church for the last time. First, we presented to each sponsored student in attendance a bible, a sponsor letter and the other items sent to them. We reminded them to keep working hard! We also gave the crosses to the Sunday school kids that were there. Word must have spread quickly through the village about the free crosses and candy. We gave out more after the service and ended up running out!
The church service was very emotional. It was filled with the sweet sound of Swahili worship! Every once in a while, Tracy and I would recognize the notes of what was being sung or the cadence of what was being read. Their worship book must be similar to ours.
At one point in the service we presented our gifts. Perhaps the highlight of the gift-giving was the presentation of the six bikes to the Evangelists. The Bibles and altar cloths were also well-received by the Evangelists. The large bags of rice and beans were given. Also, Pastor John’s gift of a Pastor’s shirt was presented to Pastor Zabron.
After Pastor Zabron delivered his message, Tracy and I were invited to preach. We were worried about how well we would do, but we managed without too much trouble.
The choirs sounded wonderful. Tracy and I have some ideas for Garrett!
After the service, people gathered outside the church to auction off items offered during communion. Items for sale included eggs, vegetables, baskets and a chicken. Tracy and I successfully purchased the chicken for 5000TSH and presented it to the pastor!
Following the auction we met with Pastor Zabron, the Evangelists, and several other important Ihimbo church members. We were presented with a plan for Ihimbo moving forward. Tracy and I did not agree to anything, but a few of their requests seemed quite reasonable if not downright necessary for them to gain forward momentum as a Church. We told them we would communicate their requests to St. Stephen’s for consideration.
When we walked back to Pastor Zabron’s home, we knew our visit would soon be over. We ate another meal and packed our bags.
Tracy’s 91-year-old preaching point dancing partner was a special guest at the Pastor’s home for lunch. Someone had recognized that Tracy had formed a bond with him and had invited him inside. This man had walked several miles to the Ihimbo service JUST because Tracy was so kind to him the other day. Before we left, Tracy insisted that our driver give the old gentleman and his wife a ride home before we left for Iringa!
Our goodbyes were not easy. We had made new friends and now we had to leave them. We assured Pastor Zabron and the people gathered outside his home that we would come back, somebody would come back, to continue our relationship. In our hearts we wished it to be a certainty.
There are several Swahili phrases that begin with the words, “God willing”. The words seem appropriate here. God willing, Tracy and I will return. God willing, someone from St. Stephen’s will return, to visit the small piece of Heaven called Ihimbo and continue our “bega kwa bega” journey.
The last two pictures I took at Ihimbo:
-Baba Joel and Mama Aaron (A name puzzle for you!)
Well it is Sunday morning we are getting ready for church this morning. Dean and I have to both do the sermon (yes you can all stop laughing now!) The village is a place filled with much joy, singing and a love of the Lord. On Thursday we had quite a welcome….we were met about 1-½ miles from the church by children with signs and singing. Dean and I hopped out to walk, OK dance with them. A little further up the road teenagers joined us, then the Mama’s then the Baba’s. When all were gathered there was traditional dancing of praise and thanksgiving! Pastor John and Garrett when you see the videos and hear the music that we have experienced Dean and I may need more movement in church….we cannot wait to show all of you the video’s (with sound) of the musical experience we have had. On Friday we went to all the preaching points that make up the Ihimbo area. Our Pastor Zabron must get to the points on foot or bike----it took us over 1-½ hours by Land Cruiser to get to the farthest point! Pastor Zabron has not asked for (but the head of the south area has suggested) how much easier it would be if he had a motorbike. That is certainly something that Dean and I also see the need for after our travels. Each preaching point (Mtaa Wa) is very different. We traveled into the mountains (rocky hills) and saw churches that were constructed by the church members by making bricks, carrying stones and than making the structure as a congregation. Each was different and unique. At each of the stops we were fed and had Chai tea. Yes 6 times we had to eat and drink!!!! WE will certainly share in more detail about each point and how the Bega Kwa Bega money has helped and what the future plans are for each point. Today is the day that gifts are given during service. The bikes will be presented. The alter cloths given and then crosses handed out to the children! I am sure we are in for quite an experience. I must get out into the common area as they are preparing for breakfast. We cannot wait to share the pictures (thousands by now!) videos (many!) and audio that we have taken. We think that you will enjoy the experience as much as we have! Blessings to all back home and see you in about a week.
--------
Today (Sunday) was a happy day and a sad day. After a quick breakfast we walked to Ihimbo church for the last time. First, we presented to each sponsored student in attendance a bible, a sponsor letter and the other items sent to them. We reminded them to keep working hard! We also gave the crosses to the Sunday school kids that were there. Word must have spread quickly through the village about the free crosses and candy. We gave out more after the service and ended up running out!
The church service was very emotional. It was filled with the sweet sound of Swahili worship! Every once in a while, Tracy and I would recognize the notes of what was being sung or the cadence of what was being read. Their worship book must be similar to ours.
At one point in the service we presented our gifts. Perhaps the highlight of the gift-giving was the presentation of the six bikes to the Evangelists. The Bibles and altar cloths were also well-received by the Evangelists. The large bags of rice and beans were given. Also, Pastor John’s gift of a Pastor’s shirt was presented to Pastor Zabron.
After Pastor Zabron delivered his message, Tracy and I were invited to preach. We were worried about how well we would do, but we managed without too much trouble.
The choirs sounded wonderful. Tracy and I have some ideas for Garrett!
After the service, people gathered outside the church to auction off items offered during communion. Items for sale included eggs, vegetables, baskets and a chicken. Tracy and I successfully purchased the chicken for 5000TSH and presented it to the pastor!
Following the auction we met with Pastor Zabron, the Evangelists, and several other important Ihimbo church members. We were presented with a plan for Ihimbo moving forward. Tracy and I did not agree to anything, but a few of their requests seemed quite reasonable if not downright necessary for them to gain forward momentum as a Church. We told them we would communicate their requests to St. Stephen’s for consideration.
When we walked back to Pastor Zabron’s home, we knew our visit would soon be over. We ate another meal and packed our bags.
Tracy’s 91-year-old preaching point dancing partner was a special guest at the Pastor’s home for lunch. Someone had recognized that Tracy had formed a bond with him and had invited him inside. This man had walked several miles to the Ihimbo service JUST because Tracy was so kind to him the other day. Before we left, Tracy insisted that our driver give the old gentleman and his wife a ride home before we left for Iringa!
Our goodbyes were not easy. We had made new friends and now we had to leave them. We assured Pastor Zabron and the people gathered outside his home that we would come back, somebody would come back, to continue our relationship. In our hearts we wished it to be a certainty.
There are several Swahili phrases that begin with the words, “God willing”. The words seem appropriate here. God willing, Tracy and I will return. God willing, someone from St. Stephen’s will return, to visit the small piece of Heaven called Ihimbo and continue our “bega kwa bega” journey.
The last two pictures I took at Ihimbo:
-Baba Joel and Mama Aaron (A name puzzle for you!)
Gethsemane Monday Update
Arrival at Pommern – Thursday, June 24
(the following submitted by Judy)
Even though I had seen the pictures from Gethsemane’s 2007 team visit and heard the stories, our welcome in Pommern today overwhelmed me, overwhelmed all of us. After 45 miles of joggling in our bus with Pastor Sagga and Pastor Jenero calling ahead on their cell phones, we were suddenly greeted by the throng of singing and dancing Pommern residents. We hopped off the bus and joined them, swaying our way into the village and into the church with kangas strewn before as we entered the church. Clay, Denny and the pastors headed to the left while Ruth and I were guided to the right to rooms off the altar area where we all received beautiful new clothes, the men blue embroidered shirts and Ruth and I both blouses and skirts also beautifully embroidered.
What followed was a greeting ceremony filled with song and dance, introductions of evangelists and church leaders, and the mutual sharing of the welcome cake. Both the Pommern adult choir and the Pommern young people’s choir sang Asante Jesu—Thank you, Jesus, with drums and dancing, filling the air with joy beyond telling. We also had our first introduction to the other Americans with whom we will share the guest house, five Global Volunteer workers midway through their three week visit. Then, once again we were surrounded as we were escorted with singing and dancing to the guest house. The rest of the day we were bountifully fed, given the needed rest time, and surrounded with people eager to share stories and ask questions. And now we make use of the end of the three hours of electricity that we will have each day. Tomorrow we are off to the preaching point villages, ready and eager to learn and to share greetings from all of you.
Visiting the Pommern Preaching Points – Friday, June 25
(the following submitted by Clay)
About 15 scholarship students accompanied us as we started the day’s trip with a visit to two preaching points, where we were greeted with singing and dancing followed by introductions to the leadership at each of these small churches. One of the preaching points has an entirely new church building since the Gethsemane team visited in 2007, partially funded by our annual Bega Kwa Bega partnership contribution to Pommern.
Next we headed along back roads on our way to a tree farm that the Pommern church is starting. A year or two ago, Gethsemane provided Pommern with $300 to buy 150 acres of land for the tree farm. As we rode in a light rain through the higher elevations south of Pommern, the road got progressively worse. One could call it a cow trail, but that would be insulting to cows.
Finally we encountered a small stream, with no bridge, followed immediately by a steep hill. The bus was able to go up the hill just a few feet before it stopped. The bus and a full load of passengers was not going to make it up the hill, so our driver backed down and stopped with the rear wheels of the bus right at the stream. Then we all climbed out and watched as the driver floored it, students pushed, and the bus roared up the hill without us. It was about a quarter mile walk to the top of the hill, and we were cold, wet, and winded when we completed the climb. The next time we come to Pommern in the winter, we will bring warmer clothes.
Shortly after that, the “road” ended and we were driving cross country in knee high prairie grass, until we came to a stop in the middle of nowhere. We got out and walked a couple hundred yards to find the 7 acres of six inch high pine seedlings hidden in the grass. They say it will take only 10 years for the trees to grow to a size where they can be harvested for $20 each. We are guessing it will take longer than that, but it looks like an interesting economic opportunity.
In the afternoon, we visited two more preaching points, including one that is setup as a prison ministry. Three or four congregation members minister to the prisoners, who are serving one to three year sentences in a low security environment. The warden took us on a tour of the grounds to show us how their tree farm was progressing. The warden laughed as Denny almost took a photo where photography was forbidden.
Visit to Pommern Secondary School – Saturday, June 26
(the following submitted by Judy)
While it was disappointing to us to find that the students were on a month vacation between their semesters (remember—it’s winter here), we were able to meet 20 of our scholarship students, and I had the opportunity to speak at length with one student. I’m returning with letters that I hope will be the first in a long line of exchanges between Gethsemane and Pommern students.
We also met the school board and many teachers, and we had an extended meeting with Headmaster Shadrack Nyaulingo and Assistant Headmaster Ngedeharan. It would be hard for our students to imagine a Pommern classroom or a computer lab with no Internet, but we are even more convinced of the power of education to help a village move forward. I wish we could share the joy and thanks we received from the scholarship students you support. Know that your partnership is amazingly important!
Sunday Worship at Pommern – Sunday, June 27
(the following submitted by Ruth)
We were wondering if dancing should be required of the Gethsemane choir. The color, movement and joi d’vive was amazing!
Upon reaching Pommern, we were informed that WE would be doing the sermon. After some panic, each of us planned a small segment. Our main theme was John 13:34-35. Look it up! After much praying we succeeded in delivering our heart messages and the gifts for the parish, pastors and evangelists. God was most definitely present! They really are our brothers and sisters in Christ. We need their prayers as much as they need ours.
A special gift of 8 scholarships was presented in honor of the miraculous recovery of Gethsemane’s Kindergartner, surprising all but Clay.
(the following submitted by Judy)
Even though I had seen the pictures from Gethsemane’s 2007 team visit and heard the stories, our welcome in Pommern today overwhelmed me, overwhelmed all of us. After 45 miles of joggling in our bus with Pastor Sagga and Pastor Jenero calling ahead on their cell phones, we were suddenly greeted by the throng of singing and dancing Pommern residents. We hopped off the bus and joined them, swaying our way into the village and into the church with kangas strewn before as we entered the church. Clay, Denny and the pastors headed to the left while Ruth and I were guided to the right to rooms off the altar area where we all received beautiful new clothes, the men blue embroidered shirts and Ruth and I both blouses and skirts also beautifully embroidered.
What followed was a greeting ceremony filled with song and dance, introductions of evangelists and church leaders, and the mutual sharing of the welcome cake. Both the Pommern adult choir and the Pommern young people’s choir sang Asante Jesu—Thank you, Jesus, with drums and dancing, filling the air with joy beyond telling. We also had our first introduction to the other Americans with whom we will share the guest house, five Global Volunteer workers midway through their three week visit. Then, once again we were surrounded as we were escorted with singing and dancing to the guest house. The rest of the day we were bountifully fed, given the needed rest time, and surrounded with people eager to share stories and ask questions. And now we make use of the end of the three hours of electricity that we will have each day. Tomorrow we are off to the preaching point villages, ready and eager to learn and to share greetings from all of you.
Visiting the Pommern Preaching Points – Friday, June 25
(the following submitted by Clay)
About 15 scholarship students accompanied us as we started the day’s trip with a visit to two preaching points, where we were greeted with singing and dancing followed by introductions to the leadership at each of these small churches. One of the preaching points has an entirely new church building since the Gethsemane team visited in 2007, partially funded by our annual Bega Kwa Bega partnership contribution to Pommern.
Next we headed along back roads on our way to a tree farm that the Pommern church is starting. A year or two ago, Gethsemane provided Pommern with $300 to buy 150 acres of land for the tree farm. As we rode in a light rain through the higher elevations south of Pommern, the road got progressively worse. One could call it a cow trail, but that would be insulting to cows.
Finally we encountered a small stream, with no bridge, followed immediately by a steep hill. The bus was able to go up the hill just a few feet before it stopped. The bus and a full load of passengers was not going to make it up the hill, so our driver backed down and stopped with the rear wheels of the bus right at the stream. Then we all climbed out and watched as the driver floored it, students pushed, and the bus roared up the hill without us. It was about a quarter mile walk to the top of the hill, and we were cold, wet, and winded when we completed the climb. The next time we come to Pommern in the winter, we will bring warmer clothes.
Shortly after that, the “road” ended and we were driving cross country in knee high prairie grass, until we came to a stop in the middle of nowhere. We got out and walked a couple hundred yards to find the 7 acres of six inch high pine seedlings hidden in the grass. They say it will take only 10 years for the trees to grow to a size where they can be harvested for $20 each. We are guessing it will take longer than that, but it looks like an interesting economic opportunity.
In the afternoon, we visited two more preaching points, including one that is setup as a prison ministry. Three or four congregation members minister to the prisoners, who are serving one to three year sentences in a low security environment. The warden took us on a tour of the grounds to show us how their tree farm was progressing. The warden laughed as Denny almost took a photo where photography was forbidden.
Visit to Pommern Secondary School – Saturday, June 26
(the following submitted by Judy)
While it was disappointing to us to find that the students were on a month vacation between their semesters (remember—it’s winter here), we were able to meet 20 of our scholarship students, and I had the opportunity to speak at length with one student. I’m returning with letters that I hope will be the first in a long line of exchanges between Gethsemane and Pommern students.
We also met the school board and many teachers, and we had an extended meeting with Headmaster Shadrack Nyaulingo and Assistant Headmaster Ngedeharan. It would be hard for our students to imagine a Pommern classroom or a computer lab with no Internet, but we are even more convinced of the power of education to help a village move forward. I wish we could share the joy and thanks we received from the scholarship students you support. Know that your partnership is amazingly important!
Sunday Worship at Pommern – Sunday, June 27
(the following submitted by Ruth)
We were wondering if dancing should be required of the Gethsemane choir. The color, movement and joi d’vive was amazing!
Upon reaching Pommern, we were informed that WE would be doing the sermon. After some panic, each of us planned a small segment. Our main theme was John 13:34-35. Look it up! After much praying we succeeded in delivering our heart messages and the gifts for the parish, pastors and evangelists. God was most definitely present! They really are our brothers and sisters in Christ. We need their prayers as much as they need ours.
A special gift of 8 scholarships was presented in honor of the miraculous recovery of Gethsemane’s Kindergartner, surprising all but Clay.
Wednesday, June 23, 2010
Tuesday and Wednesday Update
At the Iringa Market – Monday, June 21
(the following submitted by Tracy on Tuesday, June 22)
Happy Birthday Gary! Yesterday we were in Iringa doing what a tourist does---shop….but this was an open air market. Dean and I went into a large roofed area where they sold beans and rice. We had such a thrill spending the money raised by all of you at St. Stephens! We bought 50 kilos (110 pounds) of rice for 50,000 shillings, and we bought 20,000 shillings of beans. I do not remember the amount but it was a big bag that you will see Dean carrying in the picture.
After measuring the rice and beans, the seller put the rice into a large bag, which Dean was getting ready to pick up. The young man starting waving his hands….50 kilos of rice in an open bag! The man proceeded to get a hooked needle and thick thread, and he sewed the top closed! Probably better than the white man carrying a large bag with rice spilling all along the street!
Rice and beans are 2 of the gifts we purchased with your donations, and it will be great to take that to our village in 2 days. The other purchase was made at a Danish Bookstore----we bought the bibles for the students (Swahili and English). Because of the cost we also were able to get 6 bibles i(Swahili only) for the evangelists. I am excited to bring your gifts!
Huruma Orphanage – Tuesday, June 21
(the following submitted by Judy)
Yesterday we also visited Huruma Orphanage, an orphanage supported by the Bega Kwa Bega partnership. Forty children living together, ages 5-15, often with no supportive relatives, children found on the street. We were visiting along with a group from Family of Christ Lutheran Church in Lakeville.
The joy of the morning—we shared Jesus Loves Me; immediately they responded, eyes shining, singing in beautifully clear voices. And then—Jesus Loves Me in two languages, sung together, looking at each other and celebrating Christ’s love for us all.
Our messages of greetings from you were translated for the children by a boy of about 13, and he later shared with me that he is as fond of his school uniform as many of Gethsemane’s middle school students are of theirs ;). We saw ears of corn piled on the ground that the students will shell and grind for their food. Tracy joined in jump rope play, and the teenagers from Lakeville played on the dirt “soccer field,” amazed at the ball handling skill of the boys. And we all heard the exhausted frustration of the orphanage head, a woman committed to raising young men and women who will be able to make good decisions when they leave, armed with knowledge and love. We pray God’s blessings on her work. We pray for the children.
Image Secondary School – Tuesday, June 21
(the following submitted by Tracy)
On Tuesday morning we toured Ilula Hospital, which is about 40 miles northeast of Iringa. After the hospital visit, we went to Image School. This is a Lutheran school that villages send their students to through the support of student scholarships. It was a long drive, 25 miles+ north of Ilula, down a red clay dirt road that we would consider a one lane road--- but when another vehicle passed (we met two or three) we each had to squeeze to the side. It was very rutted, and we bumped along knowing we might see some of our students at the end. I was holding the gifts that were packed in Minnesota---the letters and pictures and solar calculators.
After the long drive we were told that all the students were on a break from school. We were slightly disappointed, but knew that we should be able to see the students in our village when we arrive there. We had a wonderful tour and a surprise lunch and then the teachers danced for us (I have a short video). After lunch we were heading to the bus when we were told that 2 students from our village were there! Those that know me know that my eyes got misty as I delivered the letters, bibles and calculators for these students. Yes, I also gave hugs and smiles! The students we met at Image School were Wilbert Luhwago (sponsored by the Johnson’s) and Arzon Sarah (Swanbergs). We will take pictures of each student; then you will have their picture with you.
It was overwhelming to know that I had come halfway around the world and delivered personal messages from you to them-----so I left the area with tears! Oh well, when you cry at Hallmark commercials what do you expect!
(the following submitted by Dean)
Hello... miss and love everyone!
(the following submitted by Tracy on Tuesday, June 22)
Happy Birthday Gary! Yesterday we were in Iringa doing what a tourist does---shop….but this was an open air market. Dean and I went into a large roofed area where they sold beans and rice. We had such a thrill spending the money raised by all of you at St. Stephens! We bought 50 kilos (110 pounds) of rice for 50,000 shillings, and we bought 20,000 shillings of beans. I do not remember the amount but it was a big bag that you will see Dean carrying in the picture.
After measuring the rice and beans, the seller put the rice into a large bag, which Dean was getting ready to pick up. The young man starting waving his hands….50 kilos of rice in an open bag! The man proceeded to get a hooked needle and thick thread, and he sewed the top closed! Probably better than the white man carrying a large bag with rice spilling all along the street!
Rice and beans are 2 of the gifts we purchased with your donations, and it will be great to take that to our village in 2 days. The other purchase was made at a Danish Bookstore----we bought the bibles for the students (Swahili and English). Because of the cost we also were able to get 6 bibles i(Swahili only) for the evangelists. I am excited to bring your gifts!
Huruma Orphanage – Tuesday, June 21
(the following submitted by Judy)
Yesterday we also visited Huruma Orphanage, an orphanage supported by the Bega Kwa Bega partnership. Forty children living together, ages 5-15, often with no supportive relatives, children found on the street. We were visiting along with a group from Family of Christ Lutheran Church in Lakeville.
The joy of the morning—we shared Jesus Loves Me; immediately they responded, eyes shining, singing in beautifully clear voices. And then—Jesus Loves Me in two languages, sung together, looking at each other and celebrating Christ’s love for us all.
Our messages of greetings from you were translated for the children by a boy of about 13, and he later shared with me that he is as fond of his school uniform as many of Gethsemane’s middle school students are of theirs ;). We saw ears of corn piled on the ground that the students will shell and grind for their food. Tracy joined in jump rope play, and the teenagers from Lakeville played on the dirt “soccer field,” amazed at the ball handling skill of the boys. And we all heard the exhausted frustration of the orphanage head, a woman committed to raising young men and women who will be able to make good decisions when they leave, armed with knowledge and love. We pray God’s blessings on her work. We pray for the children.
Image Secondary School – Tuesday, June 21
(the following submitted by Tracy)
On Tuesday morning we toured Ilula Hospital, which is about 40 miles northeast of Iringa. After the hospital visit, we went to Image School. This is a Lutheran school that villages send their students to through the support of student scholarships. It was a long drive, 25 miles+ north of Ilula, down a red clay dirt road that we would consider a one lane road--- but when another vehicle passed (we met two or three) we each had to squeeze to the side. It was very rutted, and we bumped along knowing we might see some of our students at the end. I was holding the gifts that were packed in Minnesota---the letters and pictures and solar calculators.
After the long drive we were told that all the students were on a break from school. We were slightly disappointed, but knew that we should be able to see the students in our village when we arrive there. We had a wonderful tour and a surprise lunch and then the teachers danced for us (I have a short video). After lunch we were heading to the bus when we were told that 2 students from our village were there! Those that know me know that my eyes got misty as I delivered the letters, bibles and calculators for these students. Yes, I also gave hugs and smiles! The students we met at Image School were Wilbert Luhwago (sponsored by the Johnson’s) and Arzon Sarah (Swanbergs). We will take pictures of each student; then you will have their picture with you.
It was overwhelming to know that I had come halfway around the world and delivered personal messages from you to them-----so I left the area with tears! Oh well, when you cry at Hallmark commercials what do you expect!
(the following submitted by Dean)
Hello... miss and love everyone!
Monday, June 21, 2010
Arrival in Iringa
(the following paragraphs were submitted by Clay)
Team Departure from Minnesota
Tracy, Dennis, Ruth, Judy, and Clay had an uneventful flight to Amsterdam on Friday, June 18. We each had one suitcase of our own clothes plus one suitcase of gifts for our partner parish and students. The suitcases weighed in at just under the 50 pound limit after some minor reshuffling of materials among the team. We expected to pay extra for Tracy to carry a 3rd suitcase containing medical supplies for the Ihimbo clinic, but the extra bag extortion fee turned out to be $200 rather than the $50 we expected.
The 3:20 pm flight departed by 4 pm after a short maintenance delay (on time for an international flight) and most of us spent more time watching movies than sleeping. There was a sunset over the North Atlantic, but it never got completely dark, and sunrise followed sunset by less than an hour. At Amsterdam airport we had a 4 hour layover, enough time to briefly misplace Tracy after a bit of shopping. Just before we contacted airport security to search for her in the holding room for misplaced toddlers and children, we found her waiting for us at the departure gate.
Arrival at First Pentecostal Church Tanzania (FPCT) Guest House
We have a one-hour layover at the Kilimanjaro airport, where we came within 20 miles of the lodge where Dean is resting after his descent from Mount Kilimanjaro. Dean will join us in Iringa after taking a public bus from Kilimanjaro/Arusha to Iringa. We fly on to Dar es Salaam and arrived around 11 pm on Saturday night.
Have you ever arrived at an airport, picked up your bags, and then encountered a line of limo drivers holding signs listing the name of the passenger that they are picking up? Our driver, Esau, was waiting with a sign that read “St. Stephens Gethsemane,” and our limo was a 25 passenger Toyota mini-bus. Just the right size for 5 Americans and their luggage. We changed some dollars to Tanzania shillings, loaded our suitcases, and headed off into road construction.
A half-hour drive took us to the FPCT guest house in Dar, just a block from the Indian Ocean. FPCT guest house is operated by the Pentecostal church as a source of revenue for the church. FPCT has about 20 guest rooms spread among a half dozen buildings. By 12:30 am we were comfortably settled in House 1 that has 3 rooms and 3 bathrooms, with everyone feeling fine except for a little jet lag and the rear-facing imprints of airline seats.
Bus Ride to Iringa
Breakfast is hard boiled eggs, toast with jam, bananas, and coffee. The team and our new bus driver, Shavani, are ready for our planned 7 am departure for Iringa, but our hosts are not. We plan to pay for our night’s stay ($105 for the whole team, including breakfast), but we discover that the manager of FPCT is not scheduled to arrive until 8 am, which is 8:30 or so Tanzania time. By 8:45 am we were on the road, into more road construction.
The trip from Dar to Iringa is an 8-hour ride, plus an hour and a half break for lunch. Once we get outside of the congestion and road construction near Dar, the traffic moved a little faster.
Road construction in Tanzania is similar to the U.S., with a lot less involvement of heavy machinery. Lots of roadway gets torn up, then it is left that way with not much work being done to put it back together.
During the trip to Iringa, we encounter 4 traffic stops, where a policeman on foot stands in the highway and waves the bus to the side of the road. A check of the bus registration documents ensues, along with animated discussions in Swahili. The Tanzania tradition is to make these traffic stops shorter and less troublesome by paying a few shillings to the policeman. But our driver Shavani isn’t paying anything, so the traffic stops take awhile.
(The following entry was submitted by Tracy)
Bumps in the Road (by Tracy)
When road construction isn’t slowing us down, there are the speed bumps. On the major highway across the country, about every 20 miles there are rumble strips, followed by a really big speed bump that requires us to slow to about 10 miles per hour. The speed bumps made me think about the times that God asks us to slow down, gives us speed bumps per se. We have this great driver who knows when to slow and when to change lanes. God can also provide someone to help us along the way! Well that was my deep thought of the day yesterday.
A personal message for my family: Austin and Aaron, you will not get a machete and Beth yes Dean does snore----the ladies all heard it through the wall last night! I am excited today to walk in the city of Iringa and experience Africa without being in a moving vehicle! Happy Father’s Day (I hope that the boys bought you a card!) and blessings to all back home.
Team Departure from Minnesota
Tracy, Dennis, Ruth, Judy, and Clay had an uneventful flight to Amsterdam on Friday, June 18. We each had one suitcase of our own clothes plus one suitcase of gifts for our partner parish and students. The suitcases weighed in at just under the 50 pound limit after some minor reshuffling of materials among the team. We expected to pay extra for Tracy to carry a 3rd suitcase containing medical supplies for the Ihimbo clinic, but the extra bag extortion fee turned out to be $200 rather than the $50 we expected.
The 3:20 pm flight departed by 4 pm after a short maintenance delay (on time for an international flight) and most of us spent more time watching movies than sleeping. There was a sunset over the North Atlantic, but it never got completely dark, and sunrise followed sunset by less than an hour. At Amsterdam airport we had a 4 hour layover, enough time to briefly misplace Tracy after a bit of shopping. Just before we contacted airport security to search for her in the holding room for misplaced toddlers and children, we found her waiting for us at the departure gate.
Arrival at First Pentecostal Church Tanzania (FPCT) Guest House
We have a one-hour layover at the Kilimanjaro airport, where we came within 20 miles of the lodge where Dean is resting after his descent from Mount Kilimanjaro. Dean will join us in Iringa after taking a public bus from Kilimanjaro/Arusha to Iringa. We fly on to Dar es Salaam and arrived around 11 pm on Saturday night.
Have you ever arrived at an airport, picked up your bags, and then encountered a line of limo drivers holding signs listing the name of the passenger that they are picking up? Our driver, Esau, was waiting with a sign that read “St. Stephens Gethsemane,” and our limo was a 25 passenger Toyota mini-bus. Just the right size for 5 Americans and their luggage. We changed some dollars to Tanzania shillings, loaded our suitcases, and headed off into road construction.
A half-hour drive took us to the FPCT guest house in Dar, just a block from the Indian Ocean. FPCT guest house is operated by the Pentecostal church as a source of revenue for the church. FPCT has about 20 guest rooms spread among a half dozen buildings. By 12:30 am we were comfortably settled in House 1 that has 3 rooms and 3 bathrooms, with everyone feeling fine except for a little jet lag and the rear-facing imprints of airline seats.
Bus Ride to Iringa
Breakfast is hard boiled eggs, toast with jam, bananas, and coffee. The team and our new bus driver, Shavani, are ready for our planned 7 am departure for Iringa, but our hosts are not. We plan to pay for our night’s stay ($105 for the whole team, including breakfast), but we discover that the manager of FPCT is not scheduled to arrive until 8 am, which is 8:30 or so Tanzania time. By 8:45 am we were on the road, into more road construction.
The trip from Dar to Iringa is an 8-hour ride, plus an hour and a half break for lunch. Once we get outside of the congestion and road construction near Dar, the traffic moved a little faster.
Road construction in Tanzania is similar to the U.S., with a lot less involvement of heavy machinery. Lots of roadway gets torn up, then it is left that way with not much work being done to put it back together.
During the trip to Iringa, we encounter 4 traffic stops, where a policeman on foot stands in the highway and waves the bus to the side of the road. A check of the bus registration documents ensues, along with animated discussions in Swahili. The Tanzania tradition is to make these traffic stops shorter and less troublesome by paying a few shillings to the policeman. But our driver Shavani isn’t paying anything, so the traffic stops take awhile.
(The following entry was submitted by Tracy)
Bumps in the Road (by Tracy)
When road construction isn’t slowing us down, there are the speed bumps. On the major highway across the country, about every 20 miles there are rumble strips, followed by a really big speed bump that requires us to slow to about 10 miles per hour. The speed bumps made me think about the times that God asks us to slow down, gives us speed bumps per se. We have this great driver who knows when to slow and when to change lanes. God can also provide someone to help us along the way! Well that was my deep thought of the day yesterday.
A personal message for my family: Austin and Aaron, you will not get a machete and Beth yes Dean does snore----the ladies all heard it through the wall last night! I am excited today to walk in the city of Iringa and experience Africa without being in a moving vehicle! Happy Father’s Day (I hope that the boys bought you a card!) and blessings to all back home.
Sunday, June 20, 2010
Arrived Safely in Iringa
I spoke briefly with Dean earlier this afternoon. The entire group has arrived safely in Iringa!
Dean had a long 14 hour bus ride (and managed to survive despite having nothing to eat or drink for 25 hours). Judging by the laughter in the background, as well as his voice, everyone is excited and in great spirits!
Tracy, Dean, Clay, Denny, Ruth and Judy --- know that your friends and family in Minnesota love you and are praying for a wonderful Tanzania experience.
Happy Father's Day to the dads in the group and at home!
Beth
Dean had a long 14 hour bus ride (and managed to survive despite having nothing to eat or drink for 25 hours). Judging by the laughter in the background, as well as his voice, everyone is excited and in great spirits!
Tracy, Dean, Clay, Denny, Ruth and Judy --- know that your friends and family in Minnesota love you and are praying for a wonderful Tanzania experience.
Happy Father's Day to the dads in the group and at home!
Beth
Saturday, June 19, 2010
Jambo!!
Hello All!
Jambo from Ilboru Safari Lodge in Arusha!
I have successfully climbed Mt. Kilimanjaro, not with ease, but I made it to the top. I have purchased a bus ticket to Iringa and hope to be on the 6:00 a.m. bus. I should arrive at the Iringa bus station at about 6:00 p.m. I have just successfully activated the Tanzania cell phone. I will attempt to contact Tom Nielsen some time tonight or during my bus ride to let him know of my planned arrival time.
So many stories to tell. Miss you all!
-Dean
Jambo from Ilboru Safari Lodge in Arusha!
I have successfully climbed Mt. Kilimanjaro, not with ease, but I made it to the top. I have purchased a bus ticket to Iringa and hope to be on the 6:00 a.m. bus. I should arrive at the Iringa bus station at about 6:00 p.m. I have just successfully activated the Tanzania cell phone. I will attempt to contact Tom Nielsen some time tonight or during my bus ride to let him know of my planned arrival time.
So many stories to tell. Miss you all!
-Dean
Thursday, June 17, 2010
Friday, June 11, 2010
Arrived in Amsterdam
Dean sent the following update after arriving at the Amsterdam airport. He should arrive at Kilimanjaro around noon Central time today.
Hello!
I arrived safely at the Amsterdam airport. It is about 7:10 a.m. local time. My flight to Kilimanjaro departs at 11:00 so I have plenty of time to kill.
The flight here was frequently turbulent, so I only slept for about an hour. Hopefully the flight to Kilimanjaro will be better. The airplane food was decent. I sat next to a woman from Woodbury going to do missions work in Kenya.
-Dean
Hello!
I arrived safely at the Amsterdam airport. It is about 7:10 a.m. local time. My flight to Kilimanjaro departs at 11:00 so I have plenty of time to kill.
The flight here was frequently turbulent, so I only slept for about an hour. Hopefully the flight to Kilimanjaro will be better. The airplane food was decent. I sat next to a woman from Woodbury going to do missions work in Kenya.
-Dean
Wednesday, June 9, 2010
Tomorrow!
Tomorrow I leave for Tanzania.
God help me in my journey and keep my family safe and sane while I'm away.
-Dean
God help me in my journey and keep my family safe and sane while I'm away.
-Dean
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