Today was such wonderful day for worship. Prisca made us a delicious breakfast to kick start our first full day in Kawelawela, the village in which the church and parsonage reside. Kelly, Hugo & Shandi quickly rehearsed two songs they were going to perform in front of the congregation – How Great is Our God & Jehovah is His Name. Pastor Peter led bible study from 9-10am in which they were discussing physical baptism with water versus spiritual baptism by the Holy Spirit. Then the service began, and what a service it was! Song and praise filled the building. The congregation worshiped by singing and dancing intermittently during the 2 1/2 hour service. Kelly, Hugo & Shandi got the opportunity to share their songs, bringing American and Malawian voices together.
Mary Beth had the honor of preaching with a message about “mat carriers”, people in your life who help you with challenges or burdens in your life. She explained that that is how God intended for us to care and love one another. Despite her nerves, she delivered her sermon beautifully and we were all very proud of her.
After worship we had lunch with the community before beginning a clinic for the people of the Kawelawela village. Harriet & Rob each saw patients while the rest of us managed triage and handing out medications. We saw about 40 people in 3 hours and only had to stop because it got dark. We saw a variety of problems including malaria, infections, musculo-skeletal pain, diabetes, epilepsy, melanoma, bowel obstruction, and visual problems. We ended up taking an 11 year old girl, Lucita, to the local hospital because she had such a high fever and intense abdominal pain; sepsis was a huge concern. We are covering the costs for her to stay the night and get an ultrasound and blood work done. We will be checking in with the doctor tomorrow to see if they have results or updates. We are all praying for God to watch over her and heal her.
Children playing futbol outside of the parsonage.
Some homes in the Kawelawela village.
After another lovely dinner prepared by Prisca, we showered and hit the hay. Tomorrow we will be spending time with the Mercy & orphans in the ZOE empowerment program, which we are very excited for!
Love and Blessings,
Team Malawi