Today was a “sleep in” morning. Being from New York City I can fall asleep to the sound of buses, garbage trucks, jack hammers, even sirens; but the gentle chirping of the cricket that was in our bedroom last night provided a challenge. After much tossing and turning, though, I did finally drift off to dreamland – cricket be damned!!
The day started with a very nice breakfast buffet – chips (French fries), omelet, sautéed beef liver, baked beans, and oats (oatmeal). And, of course, coffee and tea.
After a satisfying breakfast, and some more lulling around the room, we left the hotel at 11 am to make our way to the LCCN National Headquarters in Numan. There we were served a very delicious stew for lunch at the Numan Guest House.
After lunch we met with the Administrative Secretary of the LCCN, Mr. Parisa and the Archbisoph’s personal secretary, the Rev. Dan Elkanah. During this visit Mr. Parisa expressed heartfelt thanks and appreciation for the partnership that has been growing between the Minneapolis Area Synod congregations and the Lutheran Church of Christ in Nigeria. It was a moving moment for all in the room, as a reciprocal declaration was made by those from the partnering congregations.
Gifts were presented to Mr. Parisa and Rev. Elkanah of pastor stoles, several Book of Concord, and tons of eye glasses. When asked how long it will take for the eye glasses to be distributed to those in need, Mr. Parisa replied, “The word will get out, the lines will form, and the glasses will be gone in two days!!”
The question was posed to Mr. Parisa as to what the members of the Minneapolis Synod could do to assist in the ministry of the LCCN. We met the medical director of the LCCN medical dispensary, who provided a tour of the medications provided to patients who come to the dispensary for care – antibiotics, hypertensive, vitamins, malarial, etc.. A list of necessary medication was generated by the team to bring back to the states to see if assistance can be obtained to acquire these medications.
From the LCCN Headquarters we traveled to Numan General Hospital, originally an LCCN facility. Serving the sick and needy in the Numan area efficiently and with the love of Christ, the LCCN lost control of the hospital when the government decided to usurp the control of the hospital. Since that time, the quality and efficiency of health care to those in need has declined. The hospital administrator graciously provided a tour of selected wards. We were taken to the maternity, pediatrics, and women’s surgical wards. The nursing staff provides excellent care with very limited resources. Imagine what kind of care the patients could be receiving if LCCN had not lost control and been allowed to continue the Christ centered care that started the hospital.
From Numan General Hospital we drove to the Demsa Hospital. Once a thriving LCCN health care facility, providing primary health care, surgery, and health care education for both health care professionals and patients and their families, it is now sitting empty. Financial difficulties prevented health care staff to continue working there – salaries could be paid, medications and medical supplies could not be obtained in the necessary quantities. It was very sad to see such a promising facility abandoned. However, a team from the Global Health Ministries is working to find a way to reopen this critically needed health care facility.
Arriving back at the hotel, hot and sweaty, we took a short respite and climbed once again into our van in search of dinner. Instructed to follow Bulama, our van driver, Anari, did as he was told, only to discover that Bulama, in taking a short cut to the main road, forced us to drive against the traffic until we could cross the road. Those of us in the van were oblivious to this, thinking only . . .Ok, he’s a Nigerian, driving like a Nigerian.
We wound up at a restaurant that was once the palatial home of a wealthy Nigerian businessman, complete with swimming pool and tennis court. When the businessman died, it was passed on to his family who converted it into a guest house, known as Friendship Cottages. The place is lovely – to say the least. The swimming pool is empty, and no one plays tennis, but the area is used as the guest house’s restaurant. We ordered many new and different foods of Nigerian origin. As for me, the pounded yam and beef (with greens) was extremely filling and piquant. The meal was completed with fresh fruit – yes, it was safe to eat it. At least that’s what Kris told us. We’ll see in the morning. It was a lovely evening, with lots of time for conversation. Preparing a large meal is quite challenging for a Nigerian restaurant, requiring great patience on our part. However, the joy and pride expressed in the smiling faces of our servers and hosts made it all
worthwhile.
We entertained ourselves on the ride back to the hotel by trying to estimate the temperature today. The estimates ranged from about 94 to 98 degrees, but the humidity was the killer. However, the temperature and humidity experience today was beyond the comprehension of most Minnesotans.
Tired but sated, we returned to the hotel for another good night’s sleep. If only that cricket would stop it’s chirping!!! But then . . . . I’m in Nigeria.
Sr. Melinda Lando
ELCA Deaconess
Wednesday, October 27, 2010
Tuesday, October 26, 2010
Kris' Reflections
Tuesday, October 26, 2010
Well, we had a first in Nigeria – room service! No kidding. Each guest left their order with the reception desk the evening before, and breakfasts began arriving the following morning. We departed promptly at 9:00 a.m. for Nyanya Congregation where the Women’s Fellowship Group greeted us with song and dance.
From Nyanya, we drove a short distance to the Government Secondary School in Abuja where we spent time with Principal Hassana Nuhu followed by a visit to many of the classrooms, where the students all stood as we entered and enthusiastically answered our questions. The highlight of this visit was probably the five young women who were dressed in native costume and performed a unique tribal dance for the group accompanied by drums and instruments played by other students.
We returned to Nyana where Carolyn from Light of Christ, their partner congregation, presented Pr. Jediton and Chairman Jamieson with a beautiful worship banner that had been sewn by Light of Christ, along with other gifts. In return, LCCN Nyanya presented Carolyn with a beautiful crystal plaque with both congregations’ names. The women then presented each of us with a necklace and earring set. While we ate a noon meal of chicken and rice, many of our group to learned to play their instruments while we sang a song for them, and they for us. It was a touching and delightful good-bye with our friends as we then departed for a short visit to Bishop Benjamin’s home to meet his wife, Jessica, who is also an LCCN pastor. She, too, had prepared a lovely meal, so we ate again.
Two of our group members had tummy upset and were in need of rest. Unfortunately, we had another hour’s drive to the domestic airport, where we were greeted by Bishop Ben’s younger brother, Bernard, who is employed there. He graciously processed our airline tickets and got our boarding passes as well as checked our luggage. One of our group members who was ill was escorted through security early in order to rest in the lounge. We were hoping to depart for Yola soon thereafter; however, due to a delayed Arik Airline flight from Lagos, our flight did not take off until 1.5 hours later, landing in Yola in the dark. As we boarded the plane in Abuja, we walked outdoors and the men and women were asked to be in separate lines before climbing the stairs to the plane. We soon found out the reason: all people needed to be patted down. No worries, but I will say that I’ve never been patted down on my breasts before…another first. We were treated to a pound cake-type muffin on the plane with juice, coffee or tea.
We arrived at ADIP hotel where Mr. Bulama had our room keys waiting for us. We stopped to purchase some bottled water along the way, and Anari’s van was slightly hit by a driver. More adventures.
Everyone was very tired, so we decided to treat everyone to a morning sleep-in before departing to Numan at 11:00 a.m. Wednesday More to come…
Well, we had a first in Nigeria – room service! No kidding. Each guest left their order with the reception desk the evening before, and breakfasts began arriving the following morning. We departed promptly at 9:00 a.m. for Nyanya Congregation where the Women’s Fellowship Group greeted us with song and dance.
From Nyanya, we drove a short distance to the Government Secondary School in Abuja where we spent time with Principal Hassana Nuhu followed by a visit to many of the classrooms, where the students all stood as we entered and enthusiastically answered our questions. The highlight of this visit was probably the five young women who were dressed in native costume and performed a unique tribal dance for the group accompanied by drums and instruments played by other students.
We returned to Nyana where Carolyn from Light of Christ, their partner congregation, presented Pr. Jediton and Chairman Jamieson with a beautiful worship banner that had been sewn by Light of Christ, along with other gifts. In return, LCCN Nyanya presented Carolyn with a beautiful crystal plaque with both congregations’ names. The women then presented each of us with a necklace and earring set. While we ate a noon meal of chicken and rice, many of our group to learned to play their instruments while we sang a song for them, and they for us. It was a touching and delightful good-bye with our friends as we then departed for a short visit to Bishop Benjamin’s home to meet his wife, Jessica, who is also an LCCN pastor. She, too, had prepared a lovely meal, so we ate again.
Two of our group members had tummy upset and were in need of rest. Unfortunately, we had another hour’s drive to the domestic airport, where we were greeted by Bishop Ben’s younger brother, Bernard, who is employed there. He graciously processed our airline tickets and got our boarding passes as well as checked our luggage. One of our group members who was ill was escorted through security early in order to rest in the lounge. We were hoping to depart for Yola soon thereafter; however, due to a delayed Arik Airline flight from Lagos, our flight did not take off until 1.5 hours later, landing in Yola in the dark. As we boarded the plane in Abuja, we walked outdoors and the men and women were asked to be in separate lines before climbing the stairs to the plane. We soon found out the reason: all people needed to be patted down. No worries, but I will say that I’ve never been patted down on my breasts before…another first. We were treated to a pound cake-type muffin on the plane with juice, coffee or tea.
We arrived at ADIP hotel where Mr. Bulama had our room keys waiting for us. We stopped to purchase some bottled water along the way, and Anari’s van was slightly hit by a driver. More adventures.
Everyone was very tired, so we decided to treat everyone to a morning sleep-in before departing to Numan at 11:00 a.m. Wednesday More to come…
Barb and Deb's Reflections
Monday, October 25
We started the day with breakfast at the Pope’s and then was joined by Bishop Benjamin, Pastor Jamieson and Vicar Jediton from St. Paul Cathedral (Nyanya LCCN) and their heavy duty vehicles for our excursion to Pai LCCN, an outreach congregation located approximately 2 hours from the Nyanya LCCN in Abuja (30 kilometers off the main road).
Our journey began with an exciting drive on a Nigerian freeway. We shared the road with pedestrians, motorcycles, quickly moving cars and slowly moving cars, vans, buses, trucks, all in an energetic yet chaotic traffic dance. Once we got out of Abuja there was no speed limit!! Our obliging drivers were peppered with questions about the LCCN, the country and culture of Nigeria and sights seen along the way.
Then we began our off-road adventure to Pai, Gyebri and other outreach areas. The recent rains made a barely dryable road even more difficult to traverse and yet our drivers handled it famously and with great patience. There was only one challenge of getting stuck in the mud. Along the road we saw people carrying firewood, making home-made charcoal, fields of vegetation including maize, guinea corn and sesame, goats, chickens, Brahma cattle and one lone dog (similar to a dingo).
As we arrived in Pai, the preschool aged children and adults greeted us with curiosity and smiles. We proceeded to meet with the evangelists and bible school teachers, all men who are married with families. The bible school was started in 1987 with 3 students and now has 14 students, all adults both men and women. Prior to attending bible school these adults had no education. The evangelists are volunteers and receive a small allowance for their living expenses. Evangelists and teachers introduced themselves and gave a short background on their experience in the Pai LCCN outreach areas. Carolyn Hirsch, Light of Christ Lutheran, Delano, MN presented a medical kit and monetary gift for the students in the Pai LCCN. We exchanged questions and had a discussion to clarify propaganda in the media focused on Muslim influence on Christianity in the United States. Afterwards we visited the bible school students and then enjoyed lunch consisting of egg and bologna sandwiches, beef and onion sandwiches (very tasty), and of course, rice and chicken prepared by the women.
The second half of our journey took us on more challenging roads past the government primary and secondary schools, through numerous small villages and a marketplace. The many students returning home from school bestowed on us smiling faces and waving hands. We arrived at the banks of a river across from the outreach area, Gyebri, accessible only by a large wooden canoe. The canoe is used as their “school bus” to ferry children across the river to attend school, transport supplies and villagers.
Our return trip to Abuja was equally exciting with an added “bonus” of vehicle breakdown along the freeway. The Vicar kept his cool, called the mechanic and ensured a safe arrival of his passengers to the guest house. Mun gode Allah (Thank you God!). To wrap up our day, Bishop Benjamin whisked us away to a fabulous Chinese restaurant! Pastors Judy and Drew led devotions (Psalm 121), we enjoyed many delicious dishes and wonderful dialogue about the day. (Ask John about the Squirrel-shaped fish in OK sauce)
Alleluia and amen!
We started the day with breakfast at the Pope’s and then was joined by Bishop Benjamin, Pastor Jamieson and Vicar Jediton from St. Paul Cathedral (Nyanya LCCN) and their heavy duty vehicles for our excursion to Pai LCCN, an outreach congregation located approximately 2 hours from the Nyanya LCCN in Abuja (30 kilometers off the main road).
Our journey began with an exciting drive on a Nigerian freeway. We shared the road with pedestrians, motorcycles, quickly moving cars and slowly moving cars, vans, buses, trucks, all in an energetic yet chaotic traffic dance. Once we got out of Abuja there was no speed limit!! Our obliging drivers were peppered with questions about the LCCN, the country and culture of Nigeria and sights seen along the way.
Then we began our off-road adventure to Pai, Gyebri and other outreach areas. The recent rains made a barely dryable road even more difficult to traverse and yet our drivers handled it famously and with great patience. There was only one challenge of getting stuck in the mud. Along the road we saw people carrying firewood, making home-made charcoal, fields of vegetation including maize, guinea corn and sesame, goats, chickens, Brahma cattle and one lone dog (similar to a dingo).
As we arrived in Pai, the preschool aged children and adults greeted us with curiosity and smiles. We proceeded to meet with the evangelists and bible school teachers, all men who are married with families. The bible school was started in 1987 with 3 students and now has 14 students, all adults both men and women. Prior to attending bible school these adults had no education. The evangelists are volunteers and receive a small allowance for their living expenses. Evangelists and teachers introduced themselves and gave a short background on their experience in the Pai LCCN outreach areas. Carolyn Hirsch, Light of Christ Lutheran, Delano, MN presented a medical kit and monetary gift for the students in the Pai LCCN. We exchanged questions and had a discussion to clarify propaganda in the media focused on Muslim influence on Christianity in the United States. Afterwards we visited the bible school students and then enjoyed lunch consisting of egg and bologna sandwiches, beef and onion sandwiches (very tasty), and of course, rice and chicken prepared by the women.
The second half of our journey took us on more challenging roads past the government primary and secondary schools, through numerous small villages and a marketplace. The many students returning home from school bestowed on us smiling faces and waving hands. We arrived at the banks of a river across from the outreach area, Gyebri, accessible only by a large wooden canoe. The canoe is used as their “school bus” to ferry children across the river to attend school, transport supplies and villagers.
Our return trip to Abuja was equally exciting with an added “bonus” of vehicle breakdown along the freeway. The Vicar kept his cool, called the mechanic and ensured a safe arrival of his passengers to the guest house. Mun gode Allah (Thank you God!). To wrap up our day, Bishop Benjamin whisked us away to a fabulous Chinese restaurant! Pastors Judy and Drew led devotions (Psalm 121), we enjoyed many delicious dishes and wonderful dialogue about the day. (Ask John about the Squirrel-shaped fish in OK sauce)
Alleluia and amen!
Sunday, October 24, 2010
Carolyn's Reflections
24 October 2010
Last night, Saturday, the Minnesota/New York group of 8 arrived in Abuja, weary and relieved to be in Nigeria after an 8 hour flight to Amsterdam, a 2+ hour layover and another 6 hour flight to Abuja. Kris met us at the airport, but outside, so she had to wait (and wait and wait) while we negotiated with the officials who were suspicious about the 7 big boxes we toted. The uniformed men and women (government representatives dressed as you would imagine police officers would be) wanted to know what we were transporting into Nigeria so Judy produced the list for each box. Not good enough. Huddle. They decided it was necessary to open (some? all?) of our boxes. Apparently the concern was what exactly was in the large first aid kits we’d packed so one was unwrapped and opened. Nine officers circled around and discussed what to make of the things we’d brought for our Nigerian friends and companion churches (eyeglasses, medical supplies, special gifts for congregations.) Then there were conversations about the “port fee” which was ultimately decided we would not pay. Kris had to speak through the outside door to assure them that these were missionary gifts and saved the day. Finally, it was decided that we were good to go and we loaded luggage and our travel-weary bodies into the vans. Bishop Benjamin drove our van himself and we were all delivered to the ECWA guest house where we were greeted by rehearsing church choirs in our parking lot.. The rooms are clean and tidy and air conditioned.
Sunday morning we were driven for breakfast to the Pope John Paul II guest house and enjoyed a delicious breakfast of oats, eggs and toast. There was beer for sale but we didn’t indulge. Some local women helped tie our headdresses and then on to Nyanya Lutheran Church for their worship service. The church was stated in 1984 with a membership of 5 in someone’s home, moved to a local primary school building two years later and building began in 1993 when the site was allocated to them. It is large with seating areas circled around the raised pulpit and in the balcony. The seating is plastic lawn chairs, at least for now. I’d expected it to be a long, hot service and was pleasantly surprised. Recent rains have cooled the air some and there was a breeze coming through all the open windows. And there was so much going on, such beautiful colorful people to watch and various choirs singing and drumming. The service was delivered in a mix of their native language (Hausa) and English, Nigeria’s official language. We were asked to sit in a row of chairs behind the esteemed church council men, a place of honor, and presented to the congregation by the Bishop. It was heart-warming and wonderful to be their esteemed guests. Lots of hand-shaking and the women offered a small curtsy as they greeted us. It was all charming, including the ever so respectful children who were really curious about us.
Light of Christ’s youth sent along a cash gift designated for the youth of Nyanya Lutheran (recently renamed St. Paul Cathedral) which was presented to the youth director. He held the envelope to his chest and was very thankful and everyone cheered.
As I reread this I see I’m not doing the worship service justice. It was an explosion of color and sound. A joyous celebration with lots of singing, hip-shaking and clapping to the beat. The women were decked out in fabulous dresses and our female members accorded them the respect of wearing Nigerian dresses too, complete with headdresses.
The rest of the afternoon included a lunch in the bishop’s office (served by the Women’s Fellowship Group), the congregation’s election of new church council members, a.k.a. Elders, (while we ate) and then conversation among the Bishop, Vicar, church council and our group. It was interesting to hear how our churches are organized and talk about what can be done to keep the youth of our congregations involved---a common concern. We look forward to more time to talk in the days to come.
By the time we departed Nyanya, it was time for supper, so we chose an Italian restaurant not far from our guest house. The food was fabulous and some enjoyed that beer (or wine) that we didn’t purchase in the morning. We’re looking forward to breakfast again tomorrow at the Pope’s!
Carolyn Hirsch
Light of Christ Lutheran Church
Delano, MN
Last night, Saturday, the Minnesota/New York group of 8 arrived in Abuja, weary and relieved to be in Nigeria after an 8 hour flight to Amsterdam, a 2+ hour layover and another 6 hour flight to Abuja. Kris met us at the airport, but outside, so she had to wait (and wait and wait) while we negotiated with the officials who were suspicious about the 7 big boxes we toted. The uniformed men and women (government representatives dressed as you would imagine police officers would be) wanted to know what we were transporting into Nigeria so Judy produced the list for each box. Not good enough. Huddle. They decided it was necessary to open (some? all?) of our boxes. Apparently the concern was what exactly was in the large first aid kits we’d packed so one was unwrapped and opened. Nine officers circled around and discussed what to make of the things we’d brought for our Nigerian friends and companion churches (eyeglasses, medical supplies, special gifts for congregations.) Then there were conversations about the “port fee” which was ultimately decided we would not pay. Kris had to speak through the outside door to assure them that these were missionary gifts and saved the day. Finally, it was decided that we were good to go and we loaded luggage and our travel-weary bodies into the vans. Bishop Benjamin drove our van himself and we were all delivered to the ECWA guest house where we were greeted by rehearsing church choirs in our parking lot.. The rooms are clean and tidy and air conditioned.
Sunday morning we were driven for breakfast to the Pope John Paul II guest house and enjoyed a delicious breakfast of oats, eggs and toast. There was beer for sale but we didn’t indulge. Some local women helped tie our headdresses and then on to Nyanya Lutheran Church for their worship service. The church was stated in 1984 with a membership of 5 in someone’s home, moved to a local primary school building two years later and building began in 1993 when the site was allocated to them. It is large with seating areas circled around the raised pulpit and in the balcony. The seating is plastic lawn chairs, at least for now. I’d expected it to be a long, hot service and was pleasantly surprised. Recent rains have cooled the air some and there was a breeze coming through all the open windows. And there was so much going on, such beautiful colorful people to watch and various choirs singing and drumming. The service was delivered in a mix of their native language (Hausa) and English, Nigeria’s official language. We were asked to sit in a row of chairs behind the esteemed church council men, a place of honor, and presented to the congregation by the Bishop. It was heart-warming and wonderful to be their esteemed guests. Lots of hand-shaking and the women offered a small curtsy as they greeted us. It was all charming, including the ever so respectful children who were really curious about us.
Light of Christ’s youth sent along a cash gift designated for the youth of Nyanya Lutheran (recently renamed St. Paul Cathedral) which was presented to the youth director. He held the envelope to his chest and was very thankful and everyone cheered.
As I reread this I see I’m not doing the worship service justice. It was an explosion of color and sound. A joyous celebration with lots of singing, hip-shaking and clapping to the beat. The women were decked out in fabulous dresses and our female members accorded them the respect of wearing Nigerian dresses too, complete with headdresses.
The rest of the afternoon included a lunch in the bishop’s office (served by the Women’s Fellowship Group), the congregation’s election of new church council members, a.k.a. Elders, (while we ate) and then conversation among the Bishop, Vicar, church council and our group. It was interesting to hear how our churches are organized and talk about what can be done to keep the youth of our congregations involved---a common concern. We look forward to more time to talk in the days to come.
By the time we departed Nyanya, it was time for supper, so we chose an Italian restaurant not far from our guest house. The food was fabulous and some enjoyed that beer (or wine) that we didn’t purchase in the morning. We’re looking forward to breakfast again tomorrow at the Pope’s!
Carolyn Hirsch
Light of Christ Lutheran Church
Delano, MN
Friday, October 22, 2010
Back to Abuja
22 October 2010
Wednesday was another delightful day visiting our USA friends who serve in Jos, Nigeria. While the ELCA churchwide staff visited with Dorthea Hamman, I spent time with the Oyebade family (who live right next door) and Mary Beth’s parents, Rick and Sandy, who are here visiting. It was great to catch up on news and brainstorm about future possibilities. On our way to their home this morning, we stopped at the Mashiah Foundation Women of Hope shop in downtown Jos. The shop is filled with many wonderful items, quilted and sewn, as well as several wedding gowns. By Nigerian standards, the prices are a bit high for most people, but the products are high quality, so women who stop by begin to save up for the items they wish to purchase.
Mary Beth prepared a delicious taco salad lunch for us, which really hit the spot. We had had French toast that morning at the Dogon Dutse, a real treat for everyone, so one would think we would have still been full from that feast, but alas, we consumed the luncheon meal with zeal and enjoyed the homemade oatmeal cookies that Dorthea baked for us.
Following my time with the Oyebade’s, I spent two hours visiting with Dorthea and seeing their new home on the missionary compound. I learned more about Dorthea’s extended family in the USA. Both the Oyebade’s and Hamman’s will be back in the USA from May-July for their annual leave time and Dorthea is hoping her family can travel to Minnesota in order to meet their partner congregation, University Lutheran Church of Hope in Minneapolis. Her family is having a family reunion in River Falls in July, so making stop in the Twin Cities would be wonderful.
Back in 2006 we met another missionary family, Andy Horlings, who has lived and served in Jos for over 30 years. He used to be the business administrator at Hillcrest School (the ex-pat school) but left that position after a number of years and now runs a transport company. We have hired his services on the last four trips. He graciously invited Jim, Viking, Anne and I for supper at his home where we had a chance to see photographs of their five children and grandchildren and learn more about their ministry in Jos. Linda translates the Bible into Hausa and is currently working on Lamentations. They served pounded yams (which are very much like our mashed potatoes) with Agusi soup. I have seen this soup before but have never tried it. As many of you know, I am NOT an adventurous eater, but Linda coaxed me to give it a try, which I did. It was okay. My colleagues really enjoyed it; it was a bit spicy for me, but did taste good. The base is similar to spinach (which I actually like) with spices, sauce and some meat. We enjoyed a fruit platter for dessert.
When we travel to Nigeria each year, we usually do not experience rain. However, it has rained each day that we have been here. The rains do not last all day; rather, it will pour rain for 10-15 minutes, then stop for 15 minutes, then begin again. Yesterday, our drive back to Abuja was met with one shower. I believe it rained again last night, but I didn’t hear it. Upon arrival to Abuja, we said our goodbyes to Viking who had to depart for Ghana, where he serves as an ELCA missionary. Jim, Anne and I then made our way to a new restaurant called The Salamander Café, which Anne had heard served European food. The menu was great – quite a big variety to choose from and it was, indeed, western food. The prices were high, but we all agreed that one treat along the way was okay. By our standards, having a steak dinner for $20 is not all that unreasonable, but by Nigerian standards, that was very expensive.
Anne and I shared a room/bed (over sized king beds) and happened to find on TV the Masterpiece Mystery Theatre, so enjoyed watching one of the Detective Lewis movies, in between two power outages and a phone call home. For some reason I left my Nigerian cell phone on, which was a good thing, because Jim phoned to say he had left his backpack at the restaurant. I phoned our driver, Anari, and he immediately returned to the hotel to take Jim back to retrieve it. As soon as the van pulled up, the restaurant personnel ran out with his backpack, which had his glasses, contact lens case and money in it. They had been waiting for us to return and probably wondered why it took so long for us to notice it was missing.
Anne was up at 5:00a this morning in order to be driven to the airport to catch her flight to Lagos, and then on to Cameroon where she serves with her husband, Willie, as ELCA missionaries. For some unknown reason, I again decided to turn my phone on and sure enough, a call came in just as I was dozing off to sleep again, saying that she was at the domestic terminal, but that she should have gone to the international terminal. Thankfully, Anari keeps his phone on at all times, so he immediately turned around to retrieve Anne and get her to the correct terminal.
Meanwhile, we learned that the little café here at the ECWA Guest House had closed, so there was no place for Jim and I to have breakfast. We headed down the block for a nice walk at 7:30a and stopped at the Valentica Hotel, a lovely 4-5 star hotel just at the end of our street. The prices were high, but we enjoyed a nice breakfast and then stopped at a local market to purchase a few snacks for the rest of the day. The coffee was quite strong (usually not a problem for me as I like it black and strong); it had a different sort of flavor to it and Jim and I deduced that it tasked of molasses. Anne left me a European coffee warmer, so I have asked Bishop Ben to lend me a coffee mug so that I can heat up my instant Starbuck’s tomorrow morning.
Jim and I ventured out to an Italian restaurant for lunch – he had a pizza and I had spaghetti with meat sauce, all very delicious but expensive by Nigerian standards. Returned to the room to try internet again – no luck, so worked on other items before bidding farewell to Jim at 4:30 for his return flight to Amsterdam. Bishop Benjamin Fuduta arrived at 5:00 and we traveled a short distance to the Pope John Paul II Guest House where we enjoyed a nice supper of chicken, rice and fried plantanes.
The Zane wireless internet has been down since last night. However, the Pope John Paul II Guest House has an internet café with high speed computers, so if all else fails, I may go there tomorrow morning to update this blog.
As always, we are greeted warmly by everyone we pass along the way. It will be good to have a day of rest today and catch up on some paperwork. I wish my USA travelers a safe journey here – their Nigerian friends are anxious for their arrival!
Blessings on your day!
Wednesday was another delightful day visiting our USA friends who serve in Jos, Nigeria. While the ELCA churchwide staff visited with Dorthea Hamman, I spent time with the Oyebade family (who live right next door) and Mary Beth’s parents, Rick and Sandy, who are here visiting. It was great to catch up on news and brainstorm about future possibilities. On our way to their home this morning, we stopped at the Mashiah Foundation Women of Hope shop in downtown Jos. The shop is filled with many wonderful items, quilted and sewn, as well as several wedding gowns. By Nigerian standards, the prices are a bit high for most people, but the products are high quality, so women who stop by begin to save up for the items they wish to purchase.
Mary Beth prepared a delicious taco salad lunch for us, which really hit the spot. We had had French toast that morning at the Dogon Dutse, a real treat for everyone, so one would think we would have still been full from that feast, but alas, we consumed the luncheon meal with zeal and enjoyed the homemade oatmeal cookies that Dorthea baked for us.
Following my time with the Oyebade’s, I spent two hours visiting with Dorthea and seeing their new home on the missionary compound. I learned more about Dorthea’s extended family in the USA. Both the Oyebade’s and Hamman’s will be back in the USA from May-July for their annual leave time and Dorthea is hoping her family can travel to Minnesota in order to meet their partner congregation, University Lutheran Church of Hope in Minneapolis. Her family is having a family reunion in River Falls in July, so making stop in the Twin Cities would be wonderful.
Back in 2006 we met another missionary family, Andy Horlings, who has lived and served in Jos for over 30 years. He used to be the business administrator at Hillcrest School (the ex-pat school) but left that position after a number of years and now runs a transport company. We have hired his services on the last four trips. He graciously invited Jim, Viking, Anne and I for supper at his home where we had a chance to see photographs of their five children and grandchildren and learn more about their ministry in Jos. Linda translates the Bible into Hausa and is currently working on Lamentations. They served pounded yams (which are very much like our mashed potatoes) with Agusi soup. I have seen this soup before but have never tried it. As many of you know, I am NOT an adventurous eater, but Linda coaxed me to give it a try, which I did. It was okay. My colleagues really enjoyed it; it was a bit spicy for me, but did taste good. The base is similar to spinach (which I actually like) with spices, sauce and some meat. We enjoyed a fruit platter for dessert.
When we travel to Nigeria each year, we usually do not experience rain. However, it has rained each day that we have been here. The rains do not last all day; rather, it will pour rain for 10-15 minutes, then stop for 15 minutes, then begin again. Yesterday, our drive back to Abuja was met with one shower. I believe it rained again last night, but I didn’t hear it. Upon arrival to Abuja, we said our goodbyes to Viking who had to depart for Ghana, where he serves as an ELCA missionary. Jim, Anne and I then made our way to a new restaurant called The Salamander Café, which Anne had heard served European food. The menu was great – quite a big variety to choose from and it was, indeed, western food. The prices were high, but we all agreed that one treat along the way was okay. By our standards, having a steak dinner for $20 is not all that unreasonable, but by Nigerian standards, that was very expensive.
Anne and I shared a room/bed (over sized king beds) and happened to find on TV the Masterpiece Mystery Theatre, so enjoyed watching one of the Detective Lewis movies, in between two power outages and a phone call home. For some reason I left my Nigerian cell phone on, which was a good thing, because Jim phoned to say he had left his backpack at the restaurant. I phoned our driver, Anari, and he immediately returned to the hotel to take Jim back to retrieve it. As soon as the van pulled up, the restaurant personnel ran out with his backpack, which had his glasses, contact lens case and money in it. They had been waiting for us to return and probably wondered why it took so long for us to notice it was missing.
Anne was up at 5:00a this morning in order to be driven to the airport to catch her flight to Lagos, and then on to Cameroon where she serves with her husband, Willie, as ELCA missionaries. For some unknown reason, I again decided to turn my phone on and sure enough, a call came in just as I was dozing off to sleep again, saying that she was at the domestic terminal, but that she should have gone to the international terminal. Thankfully, Anari keeps his phone on at all times, so he immediately turned around to retrieve Anne and get her to the correct terminal.
Meanwhile, we learned that the little café here at the ECWA Guest House had closed, so there was no place for Jim and I to have breakfast. We headed down the block for a nice walk at 7:30a and stopped at the Valentica Hotel, a lovely 4-5 star hotel just at the end of our street. The prices were high, but we enjoyed a nice breakfast and then stopped at a local market to purchase a few snacks for the rest of the day. The coffee was quite strong (usually not a problem for me as I like it black and strong); it had a different sort of flavor to it and Jim and I deduced that it tasked of molasses. Anne left me a European coffee warmer, so I have asked Bishop Ben to lend me a coffee mug so that I can heat up my instant Starbuck’s tomorrow morning.
Jim and I ventured out to an Italian restaurant for lunch – he had a pizza and I had spaghetti with meat sauce, all very delicious but expensive by Nigerian standards. Returned to the room to try internet again – no luck, so worked on other items before bidding farewell to Jim at 4:30 for his return flight to Amsterdam. Bishop Benjamin Fuduta arrived at 5:00 and we traveled a short distance to the Pope John Paul II Guest House where we enjoyed a nice supper of chicken, rice and fried plantanes.
The Zane wireless internet has been down since last night. However, the Pope John Paul II Guest House has an internet café with high speed computers, so if all else fails, I may go there tomorrow morning to update this blog.
As always, we are greeted warmly by everyone we pass along the way. It will be good to have a day of rest today and catch up on some paperwork. I wish my USA travelers a safe journey here – their Nigerian friends are anxious for their arrival!
Blessings on your day!
Tuesday, October 19, 2010
Dogon Dutse News
20 October 2010
Following thunderstorms and rain all afternoon Tuesday, it looks to be another partly cloudy day ahead, though one can never tell in the Plateau State of Nigeria. Fortunately, we were in Partnership meetings all day and evening on Tuesday, so the cooler temperatures that accompanied the rain felt refreshing and nice. And it made our tea and biscuit breaks all the more fun.
Traveling has its ups and downs and this trip I ended up with fairly swollen ankles which seemed to be getting worse. So I phoned my good friend, Mary Beth Oyebade at the Mashiah Foundation inquiring if she perhaps had a diuretic I might get. She immediately put out an email to all her missionary friends. No one had any, so she headed to the local pharmacist first thing Tuesday morning. Following a few questions on the phone (e.g. my age, did I have high blood pressure, and was a dimple left when I pressed on the ankles), the pharmacist sent along several little pills for me to take. They worked. This morning all is well. Of course, a few brisk walks would have also helped, but the thunderstorms (literally pouring cats and dogs) prevented that. Live and learn: drink more water on the airplane and get up and walk around (that is, if the flight attendants would get those carts out of the aisle!).
As always, the meals at the Dogon Dutse are a special treat. We had a delicious beef stew, unlike any I had had before, for Monday lunch and fabulous spaghetti for Tuesday lunch. The chicken for supper last night was probably the plumpest I’ve ever had while in Nigeria. Our group has also enjoyed conversing with a young newlywed couple who is honeymooning here at the Dogon Dutse. They did not have a camera, so I have taken some photos of them and will send them via email upon my return to the States.
Awoke this morning to no electricity, so had the pleasure of showering in the dark via battery-operated torches. Thankfully this laptop still had some battery life so I’m crafting this entry in hopes of posting it once the electricity returns.
Today we will have our final morning meeting with the leaders of the LCCN. Yesterday’s meetings were long with very lively conversation, but many mis-communications were solved and we are all excited about the future of our partnership.
We will then depart to spend the afternoon with our friends at the Mashiah Foundation. Mary Beth and Bayo will prepare a Taco salad lunch while we visit and catch up on news. Then we will spend time with Amson and Dorthea Hamman (managers of the Dogon Dutse) and their family. Supper will be with Andy and Linda Horlings. We came to know the Horlings in 2008 when we began hiring them for our transportation needs while traveling in Nigeria. They graciously invited us to supper and we are looking forward to learning more about their ministry. I do know that Linda is a Bible translator and is now working on Lamentations. They have lived here in Jos for well over 30 years.
On our way to the Oyebade’s later this morning, we will stop at the new shop that the Women of Hope opened recently in downtown Jos. With any luck, I may be able to post a photo next time around.
I am looking forward to returning to Abuja tomorrow and visiting Bishop Ben’s new home, visiting with his family and waiting for the next group of travelers to arrive Saturday evening. I trust all is well in the States. Blessings on your day!
Following thunderstorms and rain all afternoon Tuesday, it looks to be another partly cloudy day ahead, though one can never tell in the Plateau State of Nigeria. Fortunately, we were in Partnership meetings all day and evening on Tuesday, so the cooler temperatures that accompanied the rain felt refreshing and nice. And it made our tea and biscuit breaks all the more fun.
Traveling has its ups and downs and this trip I ended up with fairly swollen ankles which seemed to be getting worse. So I phoned my good friend, Mary Beth Oyebade at the Mashiah Foundation inquiring if she perhaps had a diuretic I might get. She immediately put out an email to all her missionary friends. No one had any, so she headed to the local pharmacist first thing Tuesday morning. Following a few questions on the phone (e.g. my age, did I have high blood pressure, and was a dimple left when I pressed on the ankles), the pharmacist sent along several little pills for me to take. They worked. This morning all is well. Of course, a few brisk walks would have also helped, but the thunderstorms (literally pouring cats and dogs) prevented that. Live and learn: drink more water on the airplane and get up and walk around (that is, if the flight attendants would get those carts out of the aisle!).
As always, the meals at the Dogon Dutse are a special treat. We had a delicious beef stew, unlike any I had had before, for Monday lunch and fabulous spaghetti for Tuesday lunch. The chicken for supper last night was probably the plumpest I’ve ever had while in Nigeria. Our group has also enjoyed conversing with a young newlywed couple who is honeymooning here at the Dogon Dutse. They did not have a camera, so I have taken some photos of them and will send them via email upon my return to the States.
Awoke this morning to no electricity, so had the pleasure of showering in the dark via battery-operated torches. Thankfully this laptop still had some battery life so I’m crafting this entry in hopes of posting it once the electricity returns.
Today we will have our final morning meeting with the leaders of the LCCN. Yesterday’s meetings were long with very lively conversation, but many mis-communications were solved and we are all excited about the future of our partnership.
We will then depart to spend the afternoon with our friends at the Mashiah Foundation. Mary Beth and Bayo will prepare a Taco salad lunch while we visit and catch up on news. Then we will spend time with Amson and Dorthea Hamman (managers of the Dogon Dutse) and their family. Supper will be with Andy and Linda Horlings. We came to know the Horlings in 2008 when we began hiring them for our transportation needs while traveling in Nigeria. They graciously invited us to supper and we are looking forward to learning more about their ministry. I do know that Linda is a Bible translator and is now working on Lamentations. They have lived here in Jos for well over 30 years.
On our way to the Oyebade’s later this morning, we will stop at the new shop that the Women of Hope opened recently in downtown Jos. With any luck, I may be able to post a photo next time around.
I am looking forward to returning to Abuja tomorrow and visiting Bishop Ben’s new home, visiting with his family and waiting for the next group of travelers to arrive Saturday evening. I trust all is well in the States. Blessings on your day!
Monday, October 18, 2010
Partnership Meetings Begin
16 October 2010
Gary Sande, Pr. James Gonia (ELCA Global Mission ) and I arrived at LCCN Nyanya congregation in Abuja
I noticed this year that there were many more guard check points along the way. As we neared Jos, the check points were every 3 kilometers. But we made very good time and arrived in time for a delicious supper meal. As many who travel to Nigeria
17 October 2010
The sun is shining and Pwakitti has already done the laundry for the day. The cooks were so pleased to receive the vanilla and orange aide that I brought along. They wanted to make us some sugar cookies, but did not have cream of tartar (apparently it is not available here). So I have already made a note to bring some along next year. One visitor from LCCN Majami’ar Almasihu arrived early to greet me (nurse Justina Ekaa) and she was pleased to have received photos from her partner congregation, Our Saviour’s/East Bethel. Meanwhile, my friend, Mori, purchased me an internet access stick, so I am able to access the internet. The prices have gone done from last year and the coverage is better, so things are improving in Nigeria
All of partners with the LCCN began meetings at 10:00 a.m. and concluded at 6:00. May fruitful discussions took place. We ended our time discussing interfaith dialogue between the Muslims and Christians in Nigeria
It has been a good two days so far, with warm weather but no rain. The partners will meet again Tuesday all day where we will continue to learn from one another, strengthen our friendships and partnership, and look for ways in which we might all support the efforts of the LCCN. I am looking forward to my group of eight arriving Saturday night – we have some wonderful things planned for their time here. Peace and joy to all this warm and humid evening!
Arrived - Yay!
15 October
Arrived at MSP airport at 5:15, secured boxes with duct tape, and proceeded to check in, which was a breeze; security line virtually nil. Enjoyed a nice supper meal with Gary Holland who was working on a special project at a company in St. Paul Abuja New York Washington DC
If you have ever traveled to California or Arizona Africa , also has a distinct smell, that of fire burning, as most Nigerians prefer to cook over an open fire. We didn’t have the usual traffic congestion at the airport as our driver was waiting in a different area from years past. We went through passport control with ease, collected our bags, found our driver, Michael, whose wide passed away unexpectedly and tragically last year while he was serving our needs, and made our 50 minute drive to the ECWA Guest House in Abuja.
We plan to worship Sunday morning at LCCN Nyanya in Abuja at 9:00a with hopes of departing at noon for Jos and eating our snack lunch along the way. Weather hot and humid already!
Friday, October 1, 2010
Preparing to Depart
“Come and see, go and tell.” These are the words that Archbishop Nemuel Babba encouraged the Minneapolis visitors to Nigeria to live out upon our return in December, 2006. Since that time, 43 adults have since visited our companion congregations of The Lutheran Church of Christ in Nigeria (LCCN) over these past five years, returning inspired to “go and tell” about what they have seen and experienced.
October 15 marks the 5th annual companion synod trip to Nigeria. Eight Minneapolis Area Synod congregational members and one ELCA Deaconess from New York will accompany companion synod coordinator, Kris Perry, on another life-changing trip.
Carolyn Hirsch from Light of Christ Lutheran Church in Delano will meet their partner congregation, Nyanya Lutheran, located in Abuja, the capital city of Nigeria. Nyanya Lutheran Church has now been named the Cathedral Church for the newly approved Abuja Diocese. Right Rev. Benjamin Fuduta has been elected bishop of the Abuja Diocese, and it will be our group’s first worship experience on Sunday, October 24. Pastor Judy Burgett Winzig, who formerly served Epiphany Lutheran Church in Minneapolis, will accompany Carolyn as she spends time with Elders and congregational members of Nyanya as they, together, begin discussion about their new partnership.
Lake Nokomis Lutheran Church is sending four adults to visit LCCN Kubi, the former congregational partner of Epiphany Lutheran Church, which closed in August, 2008. Several members of Epiphany subsequently joined Lake Nokomis and shared their enthusiasm about their 12-year partnership with Kubi, and the congregation voted to continue this wonderful partnership. Rev. Drew Flathmann, John Becker, Barb Geiger and Deb Swanson will share experiences in a rural congregational setting with Pr. Drew preaching and undoubtedly baptizing several into the life of the church. Below is a photo of Barb when she traveled to Nigeria in 2006 working side-by-side with a woman from their partner congregation at Kubi.
Kris Perry and Paul Nelson (member of Lyndale Lutheran of Maple Plain) will spend time visiting two pilot project sites which have been chosen to initiate a Community Based Primary Health Care Program (CBPHC). This program will be under the leadership of the LCCN Health Board, Dr. Martin Bimba, Chair. Local consultant is Dr. David Thompson with Global Health Ministries. He, along with Rev. Tim Iverson, Executive Director of GHM, and Gary Sande, GHM Nigeria Liaison Volunteer, will also be traveling to Adamawa State, Nigeria in late October.
As a new member of the Minneapolis Water Team, Paul will see for himself the many challenges facing our friends in Nigeria and will gain a deeper understanding of how our synod and congregations might best support the efforts of the LCCN in the areas of health care and providing safe drinking water in Adamawa State, Nigeria.
As a new member of the Minneapolis Water Team, Paul will see for himself the many challenges facing our friends in Nigeria and will gain a deeper understanding of how our synod and congregations might best support the efforts of the LCCN in the areas of health care and providing safe drinking water in Adamawa State, Nigeria.
In a separate trip during November, Rev. Bradley Holt, professor at Augsburg College in Minneapolis and former missionary in Nigeria during the 1960's, will spend three weeks teaching a course with Rev. Dr. Peter Bartimawus at Bronnum Lutheran Seminary in Bamba-Adamawa State, Nigeria.
As always, the groups will spend much time visiting a variety of ministries including Bronnum Lutheran Seminary, Demsa Health and Referral Center, the Deaf Church, public schools and social service agencies (NGO’s). And, of course, while eating new foods and learning and experiencing new ways of living, some will also visit Yankari National Park for two days of rest and reflection as they swim in the hot springs, visit ancient caves, and photograph animals such as baboons, warthogs, deer buck, and hopefully elephants.
Above you see Sr. Melinda Lando, ELCA Deaconess, enjoying a climb into the ancient Marshall Caves at Yankari.
We request your prayers for safe travels and good health along the way. The group will return November 6 with many stories to tell and an abundance of photos. Participants include:
Back Row: John Becker, Paul Nelson Middle Row: Kris Perry, Carolyn Hirsch, Pr. Drew Flathmann
Front Row: Pr. Judy Burgett Winzig, Debra Swanson, Barb Geiger
ELCA Deaconess serving in New York
If you would like to learn more about a congregational partnership, how to become involved in our water or health teams, perhaps financially support rehabbing a health dispensary in need and/or drilling a borehole for clean water, or inviting one of our travelers to share their experiences/photos at an adult forum, please contact Kris Perry at k.perry@mpls-synod.org.
If you would like to learn more about a congregational partnership, how to become involved in our water or health teams, perhaps financially support rehabbing a health dispensary in need and/or drilling a borehole for clean water, or inviting one of our travelers to share their experiences/photos at an adult forum, please contact Kris Perry at k.perry@mpls-synod.org.
Plans are already under way for the annual trip to Nigeria in 2011. If your congregation wishes to participate, please contact Kris Perry to secure your intention. Dates for the 2011 trip are tentatively scheduled for October 28-November 12 with orientation sessions scheduled for March 5, June 2, September 8 and October 6.
If you would like to learn more about the Lutheran Church of Christ in Nigeria (LCCN), visit their new website (still under construction, but viewable) at: www.lccnigeria.org
Check out this video and see how the group in 2008 learned a Nigerian song in the language of Hausa!
Check out this video and see how the group in 2008 learned a Nigerian song in the language of Hausa!
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