Saturday - delayed due to lack of internet connection!

Early start again today then it was out on the road to visit the parishes of Kageme and Tumba. We had talked through the day with our friend and guide, Juvenal, so we were due to go first to Kageme and then on to Tumba. We had a meeting back at the diocesan centre planned for 4pm, so we needed to keep to timings.

Off we set, seven in the car. Our driver was set on getting us to our parishes as soon as possible so as we travelled along the dirt roads, pedestrians disappeared in the dust cloud that followed our vehicle. Not sure what colour they would be, either clothes-wise or temperament-wise once the dust had settled, but we were not hanging around long enough to find out.

We arrived at our first parish a little later than we had anticipated, to find that there was no-one around to welcome us. No pastor, no church leaders. Just a church building and a pastor’s house. We merrily walked around admiring the views and waiting for people to appear. Nothing, nor no-one. Juvenal was on the phone, but didn’t seem to have any helpful information. However, a local man turned up with his children to see what these ‘muzungu’ were doing. He could speak English and as we talked, it became apparent that we were not in Kigarama but in Tumba! Our second visit had become our first visit, so not surprising that there was no welcoming party! It seems plans had been changed.

After a little more hanging around some church leaders appeared and we were welcomed into the house of the pastor. His wife was there as were his children and other ladies - but still no pastor. Drinks and bananas were offered around and conversations began, even without the pastor. Then, at last, a motorbike was heard and the pastor arrived - with some bread!

The rest of our visit went well and as we planned to leave. We were told that food had now been prepared - and what a feast! So we stayed on to share the food.

Now, with our schedule rearranged we were back in the car and off to the first parish which was now the second visit. Our ‘chariot’ sped along even faster than before and more pedestrians disappeared as we passed. We bounced along, occasionally getting airborn until we reached the parish of Tumba. An enthusiastic welcome was waiting for us in the church building as the people sang and danced us in. We introduced ourselves, then listened as some of the parish leaders explained their role and the work they do. We realised afresh the importance of meeting our SAP-linked congregations face to face and hearing about their ministry. 

After another cup of tea and some more food, we headed home, tired but grateful to the Lord for giving us the privilege of spending time with his people here in Rwanda.