What a day of rejoicing it was! Awaking our first morning, we prepared ourselves for a day of worship. We traveled by cattle truck and hiked the remaining way to attend Degeance Church. Hiking along the rugged path and up the steep incline, we passed banana fields, donkeys, goats and even children swimming in the stream! After breaking a sweat and finally reaching the end of the hike, we were welcomed to the church by the most gracious parishioners. Dancing, singing, and worshiping our Lord, His presence was alive. It was amazing to celebrate God's love even when the message is not spoken in English. After the Church service, we were able to fellowship under the big tree and drink international drink that always brings a smile - Coca-Cola. Our hearts were filled with love as we hiked with Kelly to meet her sponsor child. Their meeting brought huge smiles and a few tears of joy to their faces as we all experienced how God can bring together two people from two different countries. As we said our goodbyes and loaded back on the cattle truck, we were excited to see another blessing that God is working on. We look forward to seeing the new school, soccer field, and Church, that will hopefully sometime soon be completed!
Upon our return, we enjoyed yet another fabulous meal prepared by Maude. She takes such good care of us with her fabulous cooking! This afternoon we ran through Mock Clinics, preparing ourselves for the big day tomorrow and the rest of this week! We cannot wait to travel to the schools this week and help every child we can. We are so happy we are able to provide medical assistence to these children. The community agents will be able to maintain follow up care for the children. Vanessa was also able to do some follow-up with some of her hearing-impaired students, which gives her a good head start for the week.
With a little extra time, we enjoyed the beautiful ocean, enjoyed hearing the waves, and of course seeing the goats standing on the beach. God's magnificent sunset was the perfect backdrop as our day came to an end. Day one has come to an end, fellowship has brought together Kitchen Karaoke and the beautiful sound of rejoicing for our Savior. Stories and laughter are shared by people who just a day ago were strangers but now are connected and have developed a friendship full of memories that will forever be treasured.
