Christmas day was spent
worshiping with our brethren at the Landmark Baptist Church of Namarambi near
the base of Mt. Elgon.
It gives Terry and me great joy to return
to villages that we have become a small part of through our involvement in
planting New Testament Churches.
The bond that has been formed
through Christ is one that runs deep and will last throughout eternity.
Pastor Daniel and these folks are growing in the faith as they continue
to be faithful year after year. We know one day we will commend
them to the Lord on whom they believe but for now we are enjoying the worship
and fellowship along the way.
Pastor Daniel
Like all of the new
Sanctuaries, LBC Namarambi is a work in progress but the building is further
along than the others as it has a layer of cement over the mud and the
congregation as purchased and installed glass in the windows.
After Sunday services we traveled to the home of Pastor Peter and his
family.
After three years of service here in Kenya Terry and I
have experienced much of their culture and we felt it was time for us to share a
small part of our culture with them.
We asked Pastor Peter and his
family if we could bring some of our culture to their village home to celebrate
Christmas.
They were very gracious to allow us to bring a turkey
and Christmas cookies Terry had cooked as well as set up a small Christmas tree
and of course presents.
We were reminded that we Americans take
so many things for granted as this was the first time in their lives to taste
turkey (which they loved) and to have a Christmas tree.
It is not something that is necessary counter culture but more so something that is not part of their basic necessities which dictate much of their lives.
Warming Turkey
Turkey Time
In any case, we enjoyed the smiles on their faces as everyone got their
fill of turkey and then opened presents which are a rarity here.
I think we had more fun watching the kids chase bubbles and try on their
new outfits as they celebrated Christmas in a new way. Bubble Time
Bubbles
We miss
our family in a great way and even more so during these holidays and while it is
not quite the same it is nice to be a part of our extended family here in
Kenya.
Thank you to those who sent Christmas wishes and prayers
as we serve our Lord and Savior on the foreign field.
May God
bless you and keep you.
Bro. Chuck & Sis. Terry
Fernandez
Kenya, East Africa
Kenya, East Africa
Phil. 4:13
