Off Road
It is hard to believe that today is only our second full day in Ibba. Yesterday was a full, long, exciting day. We traveled 45 miles to a more remote part of the diocese, visiting three parishes. Because of quick stops for greetings on the outward leg, the total number of stops was 6. The driving time, round trip, was over 7 hours. Much of the time 10 mph was reckless. We stopped several times to clear trees from the road, had someone scout ahead on foot for suitable passage, forded a small river, and got very stuck. While the "off-roading" was epic in itself, the powerful part was to be with these dear brothers and sisters in the Lord. They were deeply touched and amazed that someone would come so far to visit them. They feel isolated and apart in their own diocese, so these two foreign strangers was a powerful statement to them. It is known that they exist and are worth the visit. The full story will need to wait for in-person and with photos! For many, yesterday was the first time they had ever seen a white person. We were able to greet them on behalf of the Diocese of Dallas and Bishop Sumner, to offer our own greetings to them, and had the joy of praying with them for some very significant issues.
Today, I accompanied Bishop Kamani to see the work in three parishes in a another archdeaconry. It was inspiring. They have many needs, some of which are not difficult for us to meet, but have incredible faith and perseverance. The last stop this morning included a report from the parish evangelism team. Every parish here has one! I look forward to telling more about their report. Shortly we will have a rehearsal for tomorrow's ordinations (6 deacons and a priest).
All this and only "day 2"! ( or is it day 5?)
