So….having missed our connecting flight to Mbeya due to delays on both Kenya Airways flights we had an unscheduled ‘overnight’ stop in Dar. Had to get up at 2.30am for the 4.30am coach to Mbeya…after 16 hours on the rollercoacher we finally arrived at the Karibuni Centre where we be staying for our time here. An incredibly warm welcome from the local team and while tired and a bit achy ready to get to work in the morning…a whole day later than planned. Thank you everyone who has been with us in prayer over the last couple of days…it’s been quite an adventure already!
After 16 hours on the rollercoacher yesterday it was good to be outside in Mbeya today…lovely sunny and warm in Uyole this morning and then just bit of a thunderstorm back at the Grassroots Centre this afternoon! Soon dried up…it’s been a really good day.
Back on track today with a visit to Mabatini…first time there for a few years and warmly welcomed by some familiar faces. Slightly earlier finish which gave time for a quick trip to the local market.
Two centres today…Ihombe, half way up the mountain surrounded by banana and coffee plantations…and Iyunga on the edge of Mbeya City. Fantastically warm welcome at both locations and a real privilege to spend time with these lovely people. I did have a go at the skipping in Iyunga…thankfully there is no photographic evidence of my dismal attempt!
A visit to Shewa for me today. Around 150 sponsored children met and photographed. I remember coming here 5 or so years ago and watching Pastor Francis digging out the foundations for the new church building. Progress is slow…and only happens as funds become available…but the brickwork is almost up to roof height and they have the faith to keep going and believe that the building will one day be completed. In the meantime the church continues to worship in the wooden framed building clad with corrugated metal sheets and tarpaulins. The light and colours inside are amazing! Despite the dark skies over the mountains at times it has been a dry, sunny and pretty hot day. Time for a rest now…possibly 500 children turning up at the The Stable Church at Airport tomorrow!
‘Airport Friday’ is one the busiest days on the trip. It’s where the Grassroots Tanzania project started more than 20 years ago. The area is called ‘Airport’ as up until about 12 years ago it was home to a grass landing strip. Nearly 300 children turned up today with a similar number expected tomorrow. Just time to seek out some real coffee and a trip to tailor (watch this space!) before returning to the Karibuni Centre where we are based.
The sun sets on another busy day at the Airport church. Space for taking the photos is extremely limited….the dusty corridor providing the only little bit of shade….in the middle of the day the sun is virtually directly overhead. The hottest day so far.
We joined in with an amazing 3 hour + church service this morning….the place was alive with praise, worship and prayer…hard to put into words what an incredible experience it was. After that I had the privilege of joining Grassroots Manager Richard and his family for lunch. After lunch Richard took us for a trip ‘up the hill’ . Reaching an altitude of just over 2400m (just under 8000ft) the views were simply stunning…and the photos definitely don’t do it justice. Busy day tomorrow with another 300 children to meet…an early night is called for.
Thanks for these all moments in Mbeya May God blessed you guys.
I believe in what you are doing.