Who knew it was March 1st already? I did not know until late this afternoon when we were writing out the receipts for the money that we had spent today! I never know what day it is!
A couple weeks ago when Steve and Timothy visited the new church at Kulkpanga they were invited to a naming ceremony for one of the church member’s new baby boy. A naming ceremony is sort of like a baby shower. Thanks to all the beautiful clothes that were given to us the baby received a very nice gift. Many times the family has not named the baby and they will give the honor of naming the baby to us. That is very sweet but I would hate for someone to name my child. Sometimes they do not name the baby for a couple months because they say they want to be sure the baby “has come to stay”. The sad fact is that the infant mortality rate is very high in this area and I think that is a way for the parents to cope in the event the baby dies. The families like us to pick a “Christian” name for the baby. Many times the baby will have a traditional name too. This baby had no name at all. Steve chose to name the baby “James”. Steve taught a lesson on raising children but obviously it was not enough because when he finished they asked him to teach another lesson and this time they wanted him to talk about marriage. Now seriously, have you ever been to a class when the people asked for more teaching? Usually it is the reverse! We can’t wait to get out of class and on to other things.
Timothy went with us to the naming ceremony this morning but he was not Steve’s interpreter because they do not speak the same language in that village as they do in Timothy’s village. Timothy also has a problem with his voice; it is almost gone. Steve gave him some medicine so hopefully it will be better soon.
Dawuda, the mason finished the platform for the poly tank this afternoon. Steve is outside right now pouring water on the pad. The cement is mixed very dry and in this heat all the moisture evaporates very quickly. I told Steve that we need to cover the platform with a tarp to help seal in the moisture.
Steve talked to Divine several times today. The bulldozer has finally been brought to the village and the work on the dam has started. They think it will take 3 days to get the dam dug. The villagers are so excited about the dam and fixing their water crisis.
It is almost time for evening Bible study. Take care and thanks for all you do for us and for the work.
In His Service,
Steve and Kandie and Bro. Paul
