Rwanda Journal Day 5

8-14-05

We woke up early to get breakfast. We ordered the usual, American breakfast with amazing fruit salad and a Spanish omelet (w/out tomatoes for myself). We participated in the English service which started at 8:30 and I had to pick two songs to sing. I chose Holy & Anointed one and Alleluia Amazing Grace. We only had time to do the latter and it was the worst choice of my musical leadership career. Nonetheless, we were lied to and told that we sounded great.

Afterwards we headed to Gisenyi to meet w/ Bishop Alexis. I felt sick almost the entire trip. We arrived to find that we were staying at the Anglican complex and it was beautiful. We stayed in quaint huts, 2 boys 2 girls, that overlooked a lake. Needless to say, we were well accommodated.

After lunch, we headed out into a remote village in the province to discovery over a hundred Rwandanese waiting for us. We sang and praised with them for a few hours and it was the first time I felt like I was in Africa. Poverty was obvious but joy was as well. Even though we were in a sort of barn with a dirt floor we were so happy to finally have a chance to really be with the people. The experience overwhelmed me and I had to take time out that night.

I wrestled with God that night. I don't know if he met with me or not but I was determined to meet with him.

The night ended with what was referred to as family time with Eric, Jeannie, and Laura. Lots of laughter, some music, and Ambien led to good sleep and a few ticked off teammates due to the noise that come from the hut.