Wow! Today we participated in the ordination of Tumaini headmaster Frank Mauyo. The service was preceded by the laying of the foundation stone for an expanded building. There were tarps set up in case of rain but they ended up blocking the sun.

Fun facts (compiled by our delegation):

The entire service lasted a mere 6.5 hours.

There were three offerings.

Mauyo, the ordinand, preached after the laying on of hands.

33 pastors were present, about half of the diocese’s pastors

A group of teachers, students (including Sophia), and staff attended from Tumaini. Their drive was made longer by the rain yesterday.

There were at least 10 choral pieces, which all also included dancing

One of the gifts given to Mauyo was a chest freezer, brought into the worship space

Announcements lasted 45 minutes and included many places and events we’ve learned about on our trip.

General Secretary Philorian estimated attendance of 400-500 people.

Each person in our group had a scripture verse to read during either the foundation stone dedication or ordination

I couldn’t guess all of the questions Mauyo answered but I definitely recognized one about the Lutheran Confessions

When we arrived last night we were able to sit in a circle of diocese pastors sharing words of advice and encouragement to Mauyo, and we were invited to share our own words too-quite a wonderful practice.

Pastors I sat with, just missing Paulson who was my wonderful translator