July 17 - Roy Watson

This Tuesday in Mozambique opened with another beautiful sunrise over the Indian Ocean for some of us. For the others, we awoke to a fairly good night’s sleep after such an amazing first day on the field for all of us. Departure from our host home was around 8:30am.

After an hour ride down the main highways of Xai Xai, we took a right turn, leaving civilization. Thirty minutes later, a bumpy dirt road lead us to a small “school” that we had the opportunity to tour. This school consisted of three grass huts with nothing but a chalkboard. Across the street we had the privilege to watch children as young as 4 years old carrying jugs full of water on their heads. They warmed up to us once they saw the sight of candy. They went on their way with pocketful’s of Tootsie Rolls and Sweet Tarts.

Another short drive into the bush brought us to the Village of “Ghanjan“. The community welcomed us with song and dance, as we gathered around the well to cut the ribbon and pump the water. Marcia Myers had the honor of cutting the ribbon and drinking from the well with the locals.

Many dances and songs were prepared for their unique guests. A few of these songs required involvement from the ladies of the group. Afterwards, the women of the west shared the sacred dance also known as, “The Cupid Shuffle.”

Following the ceremony, the women of the village and the women of our group gathered together to share stories of our lives in America and to also learn what life is like in Africa. Ryan Britt led all of the men of the village in a huge spectrum of conversational topics. It was a huge blessing that those conversations led to the chance for the gospel story to be shared twice to the men. One elderly man in particular told us that that was the first time he had ever heard that story.

The women had the opportunity to pray over several of the women in the community. Many of these women live with several health problems and asked for prayers of healing. It was an intense spiritual experience for all of us. The amount of sickness and darkness that exist in these villages is incredibly heartbreaking.

The community graciously provided lunch for all of us and then we were on our way. 

A storm has rolled in with rain and heavy winds. The power has been flickering on and off. We sat down for a delicious dinner in the dark with our host.

The rumor is that tomorrow we get to experience a well being drilled.

Thank for your continued prayers as we are away. The people of 12Stone are dearly loved in these communities.

Funny Quotes of the Day:

“Can I be your husband’s second wife?” –woman villager