June 26th. Sunday. This morning, we were picked up early to go to the church where Gerrit would preach (Eglise Vivante in Kabuga). Lovely drive and I saw more of the country side. We were welcomed so warmly in a large church with mud floors and where part of the walls are made with poles and fabric. They covered the floor for the first four rows with banana leaves so that our shoes would not get muddy. The different choirs sang and they also sang in English. After warm welcomes, greetings from IAC and Colorado and South Africa and introductions.
Wow, Gerrit preached up a storm. The elderly bishop who oversees 30 churches translated and the two dove-tailed like they do it every day. When Gerrit stomped, he stomped. The message of grace by God and in the community was very well received. The bishop afterwards also summarized Gerrit’s seminar message of this week. You can read about that by clicking here. Time stood still.
Afterwards we were honored with gifts: the most beautiful traditional shirt for Gerrit and an outfit for me. I had to, of course, put it on over my skirt and top, to the great amusement, but encouragement of the congregation. I even got the head dress done.
Then off for juice and samoosas.
I can understand why Gerrit is wiped out. He spends an enormous amount of energy on the pulpit. We bumped into Americans from LA back at the guest house who had to come and look when the staff loudly expressed their approval of the outfits.
Celeste, you look wonderful in Rwandan dress! Bless you, Sister, as you walk rejoicing! Jan