We're here! We arrived in Rwanda at 12:30 pm and had a familiar face greeting us as we walked out of customs, Cindy Prouty. Cindy and Jerry run the African New Life Mission House in Kigali. Cindy took us back to the house so that we could get ready to go to a wedding of a teacher, Bob, and Sponsorship Director, Rebecca, who work with African New Life. It was such an incredible experience and an honor to be able attend a traditional wedding in Rwanda. The evening was filled with dancing, drinks (fanta, coke, and sprite =), and declicious food! As the children's voices filled the air, our souls were awakened deep within in praise. The wedding was held at the African New Life Primary School, where the couple works. It was very evident how much the children meant to them, and how much they cared for the children. Groups of children presented them with traditional gifts, and several of the children gave speechs and prayers...there were many tears of joy as they celebrated. We wanted to include some of the video that we were able to take of the traditional dances during the wedding. The one where the women are balancing the baskets on their head while they dance is called the Crane dance and is phenomenal to watch...We hope you enjoy!
We woke up this morning to the sound of song birds, welcoming the new day, so thankful to be in Rwanda. After attending African New Life church this morning, we walked to a local market and enjoyed all of the familiar sights, sounds and smells. It is difficult to express in words the blessing we feel in our hearts to be here. Rwanda is breathtakingly beautiful. The rhythm of life and Rwandese people have already ministered to our souls.
During the next few days we will be preparing for trainings we will begin this week for the Aftercare Staff with IJM. There is also a possibility that we may be working alongisde some of the African New Life staff to provide psychosocial and counseling training as well. We look forward to sharing with you more throughout the week!
Thank you so much for all of your thoughts and prayers. We are overwhelmed with joy and thankfulness in being here!
Peace & Love,
Ryan & Marla
6 comments:
WOW WOW WOW!!! Thanks so much for the videos - LOVED them! Mar - they look just like you when you are doing the Crane Dance ;).
I can only imagine what it must have been like for you guys as you arrived at the wedding. What a perfect way for you to be welcomed into Rwanda. I can imagine so well the smiles on your faces and joy you felt as you celebrated with the couple.
Love you guys! Love the updates!
Becka
What a beautiful dance and wonderful experience! Sleeping under the stars?? Marla, I'm pumped for you guys. Sounds like you're having a blessed time so far. Looking forward to hearing more!
Much love,
Grace
I am so glad that your plane arrived in time for you to go to the wedding! I knew when Mom told me about it that you would just love it and it would be such a special way to welcome you to the country. I am so happy that you got to go! Mom and Dad have told me about several others that they have been able to attend and it was great to see some video.
Love you guys, and give Mom and Dad another hug for me.
Jamie
Godd to hear from both of you. I am so pleased that you were able to enjoy Kayonza. It has a special place in my heart. I know that the Lord placed you there as a blessing to you. Welcome back to Africa!!! I look forward to hearing more.
Love,
Dad
How awesome that you were able to experience such a beautiful cultural event right off the bat.
Blessings, Vicki
How awesome that you got to experience such a beautiful cultural event right off the bat. I can only imagine how beautiful it was in real life.
Blessings, Vicki
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