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Sharing the Grief of Tanzanian Families
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13 November, 2009
The day started as normal with teams being organised to go in two directions... and more rain. One group went to Mabatini. the other to a small village that is way off the beaten track called Swaya.Mabatini went well. The work that was needed got done and then the team set off to walk back to Pastor Kenneth's for lunch. The heavens then let rip and they all got soaked.
Swaya was quite a journey. Some team members were scared by the truck going slower and slower and tipping 45 degrees. But there was something to come that would disturb then even more. Earlier this year a number of the children we support in Swaya had died. Some were in accidents and other because of desease. On arrival all their families were there to greet us and... so much more. There was alot of emotion. We didn't have much common language, but some things don't need words. As we spent time with them ... rained poured from the sky, dripping off us. Appropriate.
Eventually we left Swaya and headed back to the main centre at Airport ... where a Ringtone concert had been put together and everyone told. It was FANTASTIC! The kids loved it and the children were so excited. Ringtone did a fab job. ...
This was then followed by Kenneth parading around the church and streets outside with the trumpets we had bought them... very funny!
Tomorrow is different. There are a few children who we should have met/interviewed who did not turn up at their appointed time. So people have been sent to round them up.... and some of us will be doing that interviewing. This is very important both to set the agenda well with the young person, and also so that sponsors in the UK get an acurate update.
The rest of the team will be concentrating in joining in the "feeding programmes" - which happen in a number of places on Saturday and the children come, enjoy some games, singing Christian songs, learn something about Jesus and then having a great meal.
In addition to this a small group will be going to meet with the elders of Swaya to discuss putting a well into the village.
So... loads to pray about. 48 hours more in Mbeya!
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So sorry to hear the news from Swaya. It is such a special place. Being able to show compassion is a blessing. I can empathise with the fears of the team travelling to Swaya- it is a pretty scary road at the best of times. I hope you are managing to get your clothes dry.
We are having a terrific storm here right now- but probably nothing compared to what you are dealing with.
Praying for the rain to stop for the rest of the trip.
How is Sharon?
As I was reading I was reminded of "pain & joy" - Andy can explain better but essentially unless we can feel pain we won't feel joy.
My prayer is that those in Tanzania will experience God's joy in the same abundance that they have felt his pain.
Hi Chris & Mark
Our thoughts and prayers are with you, but we are all very proud of what you are doing, God will bless you all in the good times and the not so good, we are all hoping the weather may improve for you all, take heart, be stong for the Lord is with you all
God Bless
love Malcolm & Lynn
So sorry to hear the sad news from Swaya. I hope they found some comfort as you shared their grief and showed them the love of God.
What a journey - its a bit scarey on a good day.
You have certainly had a very tough time in Tanzania. But you have all been amazing and I'm sure God has blessed you in a very special way as you have worked for Him.
Continuing to pray for you daily - and for the rain to stop!
Love to you all
Marilyn.
You're all so amazing. Sorry to hear the dreadful news about Swaya. May God's love abound always.
Miss you Ria xxx