I am always interested in seeing how different cultures celebrate. Unfortunately there are very little celebrations in Catel. Because of the poverty, most people cannot afford weddings. Birthdays are not recognized or celebrated. (I mostly get laughs when I ask how old people are in the clinic) Funerals are the main events in Guinea Bissau.
Easter was a time of celebration for the church in Guinea Bissau. It started Thursday evening when Beryl led a “Last Supper.” We took communion while thanking God for his sacrifice on the Cross. Each person had a chance to share what Jesus’ death meant to them. The insights into what Christ’s death means for a person in Catel were truly inspiring. I wish you could have been there.
Saturday, the church women spent all afternoon cooking up a special dish made of rice, bananas, sugar, peanuts and peanut butter. Not my favorite but Jon enjoyed it and they love it.
Sunday morning the excitement was contagious. Beryl started the service with a film from the Gospel of John depicting the resurrection. We watched the film THREE times. Each time it played you would see men, women and children sitting on hard wooden benches leaning forward with excitement. We then spent over an hour singing about every praise song we know. I’m sure Jesus was just smiling at the exuberant faces singing to him oh so loudly. When you have many people in a small space, with 100+ degrees, singing with arms raised to Jesus… the aroma is horrific... BUT the atmosphere if sacred.
Coming out of incredible spiritual bondage, the Church of Catel truly understands and appreciates the freedom in Christ. I have learned so much from them.
The rest of the day was spent “ junbia” (Kiriol for hang out) at different compounds and roasting cashews. Which then led to a small episode of red, swollen face, itchy, angry skin reaction to the cashew smoke….. not fun… but a couple prednisone later and all is well again. (Benefits of having a pharmacy right in your bedroom)
I hope all of you had a blessed Easter. My prayer was that you would all be able to truly celebrate the incredible freedom we have in the cross.
May this freedom never be taken for granted!
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