Feb 23 - Sunday, worship and rest day!

Wow! Day 8! What an emotionally enriching and restful day!

Today, we woke up, had a quick breakfast, and in true Canadian fashion, we made it to the church on time—only to find the front door still locked! Apparently, we need to adapt to "Zambia time" a bit better. 😁

The first service was conducted in English. We were excited to sing for the CCAP church and introduce ourselves to the congregation. What an incredible service it was! Heartfelt prayers and amazing choir music filled the church, creating a beautiful atmosphere of worship. When it was our turn, we sang "Hope of the Nations," and the congregation was delighted, joining in with clapping. We then enjoyed a wonderful sermon centered on Isaiah 43:19: "Behold, I am doing a new thing; now it springs forth, do you not perceive it? I will make a way in the wilderness and rivers in the desert."

After more songs and a moving benediction, we felt spiritually uplifted.

Next, we attended the second service, conducted in the local Tumbuka language. WOW! The performance was spectacular. We were treated to traditional and contemporary African hymns by four different church choirs. Feeling a bit intimidated by their talent, we nonetheless performed our song, much to the congregation's delight. Many recorded us on their phones, capturing the moment. We quietly exited after our performance, allowing the congregation to continue their worship.

We spent the rest of the afternoon in quiet reflection, making trips into town, napping, playing ping pong, and simply enjoying each other's company on this restful Sunday.

In the afternoon, we visited the trade school that EduDeo helped fund and build over the last two years. Seeing the facility and understanding the purpose of each classroom and the programs to be offered was incredibly fulfilling. What an exciting investment in the local community!

Back at the CCAP compound, we continued to enjoy each other's company, making the most of the perfect weather. Patricia and I spent some time in the kitchen, getting to know our cooks: Dorothy, Christobelle, Miriam, and Precious. What a lovely group of ladies who prepare our meals each day. Pat took the opportunity to make some gluten free pancakes to accompany our meal.

After a delicious feast, we gathered for a time of devotions, continuing our study of Colossians 3:1-17. We are certainly growing together in God's word as we work with each other to dig into the text and questions.

What a blessed day it has been!