Chickens at Chiradzulu

John Wilson, Amy, Kylie, Doug and myself had the privilege of joining with the beautiful people of Chiradzulu for their Chichewa Service today. After some time along the Zomba Rd we travelled for 20mins along a winding dirt track, travelling at not much more than walking pace to avoid the pot holes, with the expert driving of Mike, even a broken-down truck didn’t deter him. We were greeted by wide-eyed children at seeing Azungus (white people). The 9 o’clock service commenced just before 10 after the formalities in the vestry with the elders. Even at this stage we were shown how much they appreciated the visit from us. The team was asked to sit in front of the church with Doug and myself given lounge chairs, very comfy and appreciated by the end of the service.

Speech after speech they expressed their appreciation to the Synod for sending us to them. They proudly told us they were the first prayer house the missionaries set up in the area of Blantyre. We were treated to choirs praising God and you could see they meant what they were singing. In this small church with concrete seats and no back wall God’s name is truly honoured and praised. 

Doug and I did the children’s talk on how angels were involved in the birth of Jesus. The children had to say ‘do not be afraid or musaope’ each time Doug held up the sign. It really involved the children as they listened for the next time they could shout it out. Mike did a great job interpreting for me.

Kylie had been prepared to do the bible reading and then all of a sudden she was asked to do a prayer. She stepped up there and came forth with a beautiful one. God enables if we are willing to be used.

John preached, with Mike interpreting, from I Tim 1 – 11. He had everyone sharing bibles when the scripture was read and listening intently to all he had to say. The message of grace, mercy and peace was strongly delivered.

Many choirs sang and when the m’vano ladies came forward for their part they got Kyle, Amy and myself involved – great fun and privilege. A drama group performed a story about the 17^th June being the day the Australians were coming. It was funny.

A surprise to us was the presentation of gifts to us. Two of the congregation walked down the small aisle, one with a wrapped gift, the other with a live chicken!!! Each member of the team received a chicken.

We made a presentation of bibles to the congregation and it was greeted with great applause.

And 3 and half hours later the benediction was pronounced, but it seemed to go so quickly.

We were shown back to the manse for a lunch of chicken, rice, nsima, coleslaw, beans and carrots. Followed by bananas. We were served coke, a real treat, only for us visitors though.

Following the final speeches, we returned to Blantyre 8hrs after we left. A wonderful, memorable day, and each of us thank God for the privilege it was to have been at Chiradzulu.

Diane B.