Sunday Part 2 - Village Church

I almost did not share the previous post. It really has nothing to do with Annie’s Closet and is not very uplifting. Well, that depends on perspective doesn’t it. 

By sharing that story, there are dozens, maybe hundreds more people who can pray for this unnamed sister, and the mother who is dealing with two extremely difficult emotional issues. We can be grateful that there was someone like Don within minutes of the scene of the accident. Even though the local hospital does not have all the modern equipment and medicine available, it was close and there are people there that we trust will do their best for the patients in their care.

Is it too cliche to say, “It could have been worse?” We can all imagine far more tragic scenarios, can’t we? We can dwell on the seemingly negative aspects past, albeit this was not far in the past, or we can learn, praise God in all things, and look for the next opportunity to serve, worship, bless others and bless God.

This morning, I almost finished the book mentioned two blog entries ago. Since I know the fascinating, quick witted, deep thinking, compassionate and somewhat quirky, man that is Jerry Maurer, his book makes total sense to me. It is entertaining and thought-provoking. If you know Jerry, it is a MUST READ. If you do not know Jerry, I am thinking you will still be very entertained so get the book. I don’t even know how a non-Fallbrook-local might even get a copy -- should I? -- well, I think Jerry will appreciate the free publicity -- JerryRMaurer@gmail.com Reminder: It is Called From Jer to Eternity.

Three beautiful ladies, dressed in
colorful Sunday dresses.

View on the walk to church.
Q: How can you tell this is an
"affluent" area compared to other areas?

A: Paved road, metal roof, power lines.

We walked about 20 minutes to Eesso Village Church. This church would be considered "upscale" compared to some Malawian Village Churches I have attended. There was a cemet floor, instead of dirt, as I had seen before. There was a metal roof, not thatch. Most of the people wore clothes that were clean, and the offering included actual government issued currency, not just tomatoes, corn, onions, chickens, and other genuine “first fruits.” Oh and the pastor had a guitar -- a real one that he played very well. It was a moving experience, nonetheless. The video and audio included in the next blog entry, do not give justice to the actual experience.

L to R: Youth Choir Leader, Victor (Abusa son)
Praise team member, Mya (Abusa son)

The music, with all the wonderful melodies, clapping, whistles, and movement/dancing is still the highlight for me. I am not sure if it happens every week, but in every village church service I have attended (three so far - 2006, 2008, 2012), there has been a praise team/music leaders, a youth choir, and a women’s choir. And there are a couple of the same songs that have been sung each time.

Not sure if we will be attending another service next Sunday, but I hope we do.