It is hard to believe that this time last year I celebrated a graduation then got on a plane for the States! How time flies when you are having fun! Friday we celebrated with another group of Church Planting Families. It is always a day filled with many emotions! A bit of relief that we got everything done we needed to for training and excitement as we send another group to make a difference in their village areas. But, there is always a hint of sadness about saying goodbye to "our kids." This year I had a partner (Amy) who joined me with those feelings!
The day began with rehearsal. We also handed the parents the outfits that many of my sewing friends at PCC made for the occasion along with flip flops that the youth decorated at VBS. These outfits given to the kids by their parents helps them to know that today is a special day. Many of these children have never owned a brand new outfit. Many of the CMF staff were busy with preparations and making the meal. The day was sunny and beautiful!!
As the service began there is always a time of greeting. I reinforced how it was a joy to be able to teach them and their children. How they have been a great group of students but now I bless them that they are now the teachers. The kids shared their songs, memory verses, and just plum cuteness! It is always a small taste of what the kids have enjoyed and learned over the four months. But, enjoyable for the crowd to experience. The parents always share words, music, and often a tribal dance! This group did not let us down as they shared their tribal dance that lasted ever bit of 20mins and I can guarantee you that there is no exercise dvd to beat it! Wow! But, it is always moving to watch vessels that you have poured truth into then express joy in yet another tribal tongue.
Todd with Lomayani bring a charge for the students as they return to their village areas as "lights on a hill." The spiritual warfare is great and the work to do here is still vast. But, we pray that as we release these students to expand the kingdom they will have courage as they bring truth.
The kids were given a lay, their certificate, and a complied portfolio of their class work, and a card from Mrs. Klay's Class at Clarks Creek. They were so very excited!! They were proud of their outfits, their certificates, and amazed as they turned the pages of their work like a fascinating book to be explored!
We had a big party with a meal, cake, and lots of fellowship! I am always amazed and touched by my Tanzanian Friends. Our CMF workers always enjoy the day and celebrating with the families. There is always a buzz about the day!! Join us as we thank God for the opportunity to invest in these lives and a blessing as they now "go" to the far reaches of our land!
No comments:
Post a Comment