A Super Slammed Sunday

Today was another busy day in Sukari. Today I traveled to a nearby Parish with Pastor George to attend an Induction Service at PCEA Kariobangi North Church, Berea Parish for Rev. Reuben Gitau Ng'ang'a. This is basically the equivalent of an instillation service in the PC(USA), except they always happen during the regularly scheduled church service. All members of the presbytery (staff, ministers, and elders) are expected to attend. Even though we were technically within the Nairobi city limits, pretty much the entire service was in Swahili (totally abnormal around here). The other student minister and I were chosen to read the two scripture readings. When I got up and started reading John 11:21-32 in English, people were super confused. The rest of the service went pretty well. The highlight for me were two of the presentations. One was the choir from Rev. Reuben's former parish. They came in matching attire and danced throughout their presentation. They even got him up and made him dance in the middle of the choir. The other presentation I really enjoyed was some of the school children who composed and recited a poem to commemorate the occasion. 

After the service, Elder Gladwell drove me to the Elders & Spouses fellowship. I went last month and was happy to go again today. There was a much smaller turn out, but we still had a good time. I was holding three year-old Mercy during most of the gathering. We are old pals now after bonding at several church functions. She's the daughter of Simon (Youth Minister) and Kate (Masai beading Queen). About halfway through the lesson I felt something dripping down my leg. It turns out, Mercy's diaper was way too full and leaking all over both of us. I had a huge wet spot on the front of my kitinge and she was soaked. We quickly excused ourselves (along with Kate). Fortunately, Kate had brought her a change of clothes. Unfortunately, I'm past that phase of my life and only bring the clothes on my body when I go other places. Maybe I should rethink this practice? Haha. I did my best to clean up, but was basically stranded. I tried not to think too much about it. Kate snapped this picture before Mercy's wardrobe change. 

After the fellowship, we headed to a bereavement service for one of our members. The elder started the service without the Minister, but it went pretty well. Fortunately he showed up in time to preach the message. It was very important that we attended this service because we will be unable to attend the actual burial later this week. Now I'm back at the manse.... and I've had a shower. Thank goodness! ~ Nell in Nairobi Health Update: No more diarrhea! WOO HOOOOOO!!!! The change in medication was definitely a good plan. I still have a ferocious cough and a runny nose, but hopefully I'll be better soon. I went back to the hospital to see the doctor last night and he seems to think that my throat looks better so that's a good sign!