Krismasi Leo at Mahove

Christmas Day, 2011, Mahove preaching point

In the car besides the two of us were Pr. Naftal, Anjelina, Alice Kahwege, and Kalulu, the parish treasurer in the back with the gifts. In Makifu we stopped to give a ride to Evangelist Lukimbililo Mkuye who climbed in the back, also.  There was much singing when we arrived with many hugs and greetings all around from as many as could shake our hands. We had few minutes to catch our breath before the service began at noon.

Evangelist Azuberi Mhema led the worship with Ps. 119:160 and the congregational singing. Evangelist Yohana was the choir leader of 4 young men (morani) which grew to 12, 4 of which were girls and kept becoming larger as the service continued.

After more readings and hymns, the young and older men brought in the tools for digging the trenches. The tools were given back after being blessed and photos taken. Asante sana from Mahove by Yohana and we responded with greetings from SOTV and that funds had left Minnesota to begin the water project. Much clapping, then three claps, and singing followed.



Introductions were next by the other visitors. Pastor Naftal gave the sermon based on John 1:14, "And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, full of grace and truth; we have beheld his glory..."

As the choir numbers increased, they continued to sing while the parents, babies and sponsors assembled at the front. Richard and I were asked to stand. After Pr. Naftal and Ev. Azuberi baptized the first three babies, they came to a Maasai couple and their baby boy who was christened Richard! 

Next came Azuberi and Maria Mhema and their baby girl was christened Joan! We now have a definite connection to the Mahove village and they have reminders of us and SOTV. After the benediction a much larger (kubwa) choir sang song after song.











While Father Christmas prepared himself the children were organized by Alice and Anjelina. We handed out candy to each child that came by us. They were not afraid of the man in red either. I wish we could have given them more than one piece. The cookies went to the adults--even ginger snaps!









The educational packets of writing tablet, pencil, pen, eraser and a few pencil sharpeners were given to 54 watoto  in Standards 1-7 and boys and girls in Forms 1-3.










What joy was seen on the faces of the students and their brothers, sisters, and parents. (They kept carrying the packets all afternoon.) And there was joy in our hearts to have given them so little to make them happy.

In return we were presented with Maasai gifts of a spear, stool, blue and white crosses, and a blue Maasai dress. We humbly said "Asante sana"---and teared up! We were overwhelmed with their generosity. Praise the Lord for the sisters and brothers in Christ.

 The day's activities moved outside with eating, dancing, singing, and a walk. The story will continue in the next blog...