Saturday, 27 July 2013

Tanzania: Inner City Distribution

Today the team completed a distribution at an inner city location at Mama Wandoa's church.  It was a shorter day, with 350  kids receiving bed kits this morning.  The day was full of surprises and many tears were shed, both in sadness and joy.


We were able to assist a very sick boy in need of medical attention and marveled at the strength of his mom as she  hoisted her 11 year old son onto her back to carry him home with his new bedkit.  We interviewed three joyous parents and children to get their feedback and suggestions on the bed kit they received today and hear how it will have an impact on their lives and family.  We greatly relished the joy of many children and their parents as we sent them off with their backpacks on and mattresses balanced on their head!

We had a very special treat in the afternoon, we were invited to attend a wedding at Mama's church!  The wedding party and family arrived at the church dancing in a parade led by a band of drum, trumpet and trombone players. The guests were lined up outside watching and we all followed the procession into the church.  There were five choirs that sang and the drums and trumpet continually added emphasis to the exuberant cheers of the guests as they let their joy be made known all throughout the ceremony.  Although we couldn't understand the language, weddings are beautiful in every language and we greatly enjoyed it.


What a blessing  and honour it was for us to be able to experience this joyous occasion.