Day 6 - 3rd Advance Team YC Malawi (04 May)

04 May

This morning I awoke early to review the first sermon I would speak in Africa. I walked for a little while in the morning sun around the pool before enjoying a couple glasses of fresh juice and coffee. Pastor Mike arrived a little later and we drove back to LPC for the early English service. The folk were friendly and Pastor David Chigamba introduced us to the congregation. The singing in the morning service was quite enjoyable and featured a blend of western and African music including the song “Reign Jesus Reign” which Pastor Mike hopes to teach to the Canadian teams as well. My sermon was entitled “The Cry of the Drum” in which I recited a couple of Chichewa phrases David Chigamba taught me. Their response was a mixture of appreciation and laughter regarding my sad attempt at the tribal language.

Following the English service, Pastor Mike left with Cheepo-the Foxfire GYM liaison-to speak at Area 23 Pentecostal Church (The city of Lilongwe and the surrounding villages are divided into regions identified as Area x). It took approximately 25 minutes to get to the church from LPC. Though within the city limits this neighbourhood is completely different from the regions of Lilongwe we had visited thus far. It is obvious that people are struggling to eke out a life amid poor housing, limited municipal services and horrible road conditions. Despite such challenges Pastor Mike was impressed at how friendly everyone was and how proud they were to have him visit their church. By the time they arrived the service had already started. Pastor Joel was waiting for them at the door. He related in the service that he wondered if they were going to show-up and whether he would have to preach. He seemed relieved! Highlights of the visit included both a choir and a dance team made-up only of children. Pastor Mike ‘s message was entitled “Things That God Has Never Seen.” After the service there was a prayer time, followed by a visit to Pastor Joel’s home located on the property. Area 23 Pentecostal Church will be hosting a YC Malawi GYM team from Canada. The pastor shared in depth the nature of their ministry, his vision for the community and how a GYM team could assist. This church is emblematic of the type of congregation many of the teams will be helping. Pastor Mike emphasized however, that the Canadian team that visits will leave blessed themselves by these lovely people. The Chichewa service at LPC was even more lively then the previous one and had a distinctive African flair. This time when I spoke Pastor David translated my sermon and a young leader from the training sessions played the bongos whenever I spoke about the drum. Once again the folk were incredibly generous in their listening and response.

Pastor David and I left for the Crossroads Hotel where we would meet Pastor Mike and Cheepo. En route we stopped again to view the surroundings of Silver Stadium still considering the various possibilities for YC Game Day. The hotel offered an outdoor grilled meal which included a choice of beef, chicken or lamb. Pastor Mike, Cheepo and a friend joined us at poolside where would eat our dinner. Pastor David left early to begin the afternoon Worship Leader’s seminar. A little later the four of us made our way back to LPC where Pastor Mike led an informative and engaging presentation to worship leaders. I think he will leave with “Freake” fans in Africa. For the last half of the meeting I went to the foyer to enjoy the breeze as I listened. I was a little too comfortable… or Mike was a little something else. Twenty minutes later I awoke from a deep sleep when one of our new Malawian friends tapped me on the shoulder. Thanks Mike. It was nice to have someone put me to sleep for a change.

Pastor Mike and I returned to the hotel for an hour of rest before our scheduled meeting with Pastor David in preparation for tomorrow night’s Foxfire meeting. As we wait we are reviewing today’s activities, organizing photos, writing this blog and drinking Fanta Pineapple pop (highly recommended) and coffee. It’s now 9.40p and we just ordered supper- sizzling chicken and prawn Chinese cuisine! More research for the GYM teams. A great day all around!