Thule's Time in Iowa ~ A Beautiful Honeymoon ~

The Rev. Charles Kunene returned from Swaziland in mid-June 2009 to the three Episcopal parishes he serves in southwest Iowa. Charles has an extra big smile on his face these days, because he didn't return alone to his Iowa home in red Oak. Charles' wife Thule has joined him for three weeks in Iowa... to see the sights, renew acquaintances with companions she'd previously met in Swaziland, and make new friends throughout our state.

Thule, who works as a supervisor in the maternity ward at the hospital in Mbabane, Swaziland, describes her sojourn in Iowa, as "a beautiful honeymoon." Thule says, "The people here in Iowa are very welcoming and kind." She has found Iowa to be "a nice place... very clean." But, she's also been surprised by a few things.

"The prices in the shops," Thule exclaims, "are to much cheaper here." She did note that the one thing she couldn't find in the Iowa stores was bar soap to do laundry. Charles explained that in Swaziland, they do all their laundry by hand and traditionally use bar soap for that process.

Thule said, "Another surprise for me is that your roads are so well-marked! You have no excuse for getting lost here in Iowa, though it takes some getting used to driving on the right side of the road. Oh, and the toilets that automatically flush! And, the organs that are programmed to play automatically! Those were nice surprises!"

"And, there are many houses here made with planks of wood, which is so different from Swaziland, where we mainly use concrete blocks," Thule said. "It was surprising to me that double-story houses made of planks would be strong enough to stay standing." Thule commented that she was also surprised by the high humidity in Iowa. "We have hot days in Swaziland, but it is dry heat, not so humid as here."

Thule expressed genuine enjoyment visiting many different parishes and communities in Iowa, meeting the friendly people and being an honored guest at many welcoming parties. Thule said that an extra special treat were her first rides ever on boats: on Spirit Lake and on the Mississippi River near Burlington. "It was so beautiful," she sighed happily. "It has been a good honeymoon for Charles and me."

Welcome Thule... Iowa has been blessed with your presence!

Fr. Charles Kunene's Return to Iowa

Below is a letter written by Fr. Charles Kunene upon his return to Iowa from his home country of Swaziland in mid-November 2008. Fr. Kunene serves three parishes in southwest Iowa... and the letter is addressed to his parishioners in love, gratitude and joy:

It sounds like a dream that I have just returned from Swaziland, but it is true. It was exciting to go back home after being away from my family for six months. The journey was longer for me, because I was really missing home and my family. And it was made worse by a delay in Senegal, West Africa, where we had a two-hour delay due to technical problems with the plane. This resulted in my missing my final flight from South Africa to Swaziland.

Anyway, I was happy to be home at last on Saturday, October 18, with the rest of the team from Iowa. We were welcomed well by our Swazi hosts with a cocktail [fruit juices & tasty treats] on our arrival. Sunday was time for me to worship at St. Luke's, which is the parish in western Swaziland that I left in order to come to Iowa. They were happy to see me and they surprised me with a sign written, "Welcome Home" on the wall above the altar, a bunch of roses and a cake. They noticed how well looked after I am while here by my three churches [in Iowa], and that I was happy. I did not need to talk about that part. They saw it themselves, and this is wonderful. I was a picture that spoke a thousand words about the churches I work with in southwest Iowa.

It was wonderful to represent you through what you did for the people of Swaziland. You were not there physically, but through the chlorinators that were distributed, the clothes collected by Red Oak and Shenandoah, the chaplets from the chaplet ministry in Glenwood and the scholarship money raised from the Vacation Bible School with the Methodist Church in Red Oak, you were made present in a powerful way to the people of Swaziland. God bless you!

Who are the Blessed? ~ Mary Jane Oakland

Excerpts from Sunday, November 2, 2008, Festival of All Saints Homily ~ ...today, we consider the portion of Matthew that is Jesus' main sermon, the Sermon on the Mount, which begins with the beatitudes. The Orthodox would say the 'commandments of blessedness.'

In a society that values competing, winning, power and controlling -- the beatitudes at first reading do not sound like blessedness -- for they are about the poor, the peacemakers, the meek, those who mourn. How do we understand who the blessed are?

...The key to understanding the beatitudes is to realize that for Jesus' sermon to sound like blessedness, we need to develop the virtue of humility. ...St. Benedict reminds us that the first step on the way to humility and blessedness is to recognize the presence of God... to know God as the center of our lives, to know deeply that God is God -- and that we are not -- blessed are the poor in spirit -- blessed are those who have great humility before God -- for theirs is the kingdom of God.

Recently in Swaziland, I had a day showing me both the presence of God -- and knowing myself to be humbled before God by the self-giving love of a group of God's children. This happened on the second day of our chlorinator demonstrations in Swaziland. Our team headed north to a high hill near Pigg's Peak -- where a large group were sitting on rocks waiting for us to arrive. They were interested in our demonstration and received their two chlorinators with thankfulness.

On we went to Hhohho, where we met with a smaller group of people in a community building. The tribal chief had learned of our coming only the day before, and he sent his representative to question our motives and the scientific evidence that the chlorinators wouldn't poison the people. After much back and forth energetic discussion in Saswati, it became clear that the chief's protocol must win the battle that day and the chlorinators were rejected. However, the women of the community did understand what the chlorinators would do, and the war was not lost, because it was arranged for a local health team to go back later for training and distribution of the chlorinators. It was a tough lesson in Swazi politics for all of us, and we never again just assumed that the people would adopt using chlorinators to purify their water.

Then, we went on to Mpofu and there was a large group waiting under an ancient council tree. The chlorinators were enthusiastically received -- we felt relieved -- and the priest (Fr. Joel Dlamini) who serves this small outpost said, "Come, you must come down the road to the church to eat the meal the women have prepared for you." Church? I hadn't noticed a church as we drove up. And, I didn't recognize a church as the vans dropped us off. It sort of looked like a weathered log cabin with a tin roof. There was a ramshackle fence around the property with a circle of barbed wired to hold the gate of tree limbs and scrap metal shut. We walked through this gate into a red dirt yard that had been freshly swept for us with a hand broom creating half circle lines in the red dirt. We moved to the threshold -- the floor was polished concrete -- gleaming. We walked inside -- this place had pieces of cardboard stuffed into the walls -- no ornamentation other than a long piece of weaving hanging on one wall -- a weaving created from small twigs. The women were putting the finishing touches on bringing the serving dishes to the table, which must also be the altar in this place.

As I walked in, I knew the nave of this church to be a very thin place -- a place where the boundaries of heaven and earth, of time and space seem to dissolve. As we came over the threshold, we knew we were on holy ground. And we could only imagine how poor this group of Anglican Christians must be, and they were sharing their food with us. I silently questioned, How can I serve myself a piece of their chicken when the children are obviously malnourished? Their self-giving hospitality was humbling. God was truly present in them and in that place. And we seemed to hear: 'Receive the banquet prepared for you." Out of their little they had given to fill the emptiness of our affluence.

Who are the blessed? As we headed back to Mbabane, we knew that we had been received by a blessed group, who like the widow and her mite, had offered what they had. And, that in eating, we were humbled before the hospitable love of these Christians -- and we knew that God was in that place teaching us to become less sure, more humble, more willing to just be, to just be humbly before God. I give thanks for the long journey, and the poor village congregation who taught me lessons that I will remember whenever I read this section of Jesus' Sermon on the Mount. For, I saw the beatitudes being lived out in their midst.Who are the blessed? Those who are able to center their lives on God and not on themselves. The Epistle write tells this day, 'See what love the Father has given us, that we should be called children of God; and that is what we are. The reason the world does not know us is that it did not know Christ. Beloved, we are God's children now; what we will be has not yet been revealed.' All the saints and martyrs would teach us on this day to humble ourselves in the presence of God -- right here, right now in our lives -- and our true inner freedom is the fruit of the virtue of humility. May we know ourselves as the Blessed of God today.

Chlorinators in Swaziland by Dan Rockwell

The 2008 SwaziTeam transported 60 Chlorine Production Units (CPUs) and 40 solar panels to Swaziland for distribution. The South Africa/Swazi border crossing went smoothly and the team was especially thankful to find upon arrival in Mbabane that all 60 chlorinators had survived the transport from Iowa to Swaziland in our luggage... nothing broken, nothing missing.

The team distributed 27 CPUs with accompanying batteries and solar chargers in many rural areas in the north, east and south regions of Swaziland. Most of the demonstrations were held outdoors -- on a misty hillside or within a wide circle of people under the shade of ancient trees. With one exception, the chlorinators were received with gratitude, and there certainly was great interest in the solar panels. I cannot remember more than one or two sites that would have had electric power to charge the batteries, so the solar panels were a great addition.

The chlorinator distribution team did a great job of training with special kudos going to Mike Mears, Elizabeth Ward and John Doherty... & who can ever forget the incredible salt-dissolving dancing star -- Terry Shively!

Our thanks to Waters of Hope and Father Mitchell Smith, and Bishop Alan Scarfe's special asking this spring, which funded the purchase of chlorinators (45), solar panels and batteries, and provided sufficient funds to install up to four roof rainwater collector systems in Swaziland. Thanks, too, to Christ Church, Cedar Rapids, for purchasing 15 CPUs, and Paula Sanchini, who engineered the logistics for purchasing, packing and transport of all the CPUs and solar panels to Swaziland on this trip. Gratitude to those who carried chlorinators in their 'second' suitcase (Lydia Kelsey, Lydia Brown, Chuck Lane, John Doherty, Mary Jane Oakland, Jane Ringwald, Jim Bradley & the Rockwells) & to Rev. Orma Mavimbela, who had the foresight to purchase 30 batteries in Swaziland and! have them tested to see that they worked prior to the arrival of the Iowa team on October 18th. Yebo!

We made it to Johannesburg!

On leaving Swaziland... Mary Jane Oakland

Team Iowa 2008 rode in the vans from Swaziland back across the border into South Africa today (October 28th). Our flights are scheduled to leave early evening tomorrow (October 29th).

We are spending tonight in a delightful hillside bed and breakfast inn. The grounds are gloriously in bloom and we felt like we were dropped into a close approximation of the Garden of Eden.

A little more than 24 hours ago I took a picture of the ground at St. Augustine's school and feeding site for orphans and vulnerable children in Mpaka. In the yard where the children play there is no grass -- not even weeds -- just hard packed clay. What a contrast to the lush growth of grass, trees shrubs and flowers here at High View Gardens in Johannesburg. (Where there is rain in Swaziland, the landscapes are green and more beautiful than expected. But in areas which have suffered from drought, the picture is different.)

Obviously, we have physically left Swaziland and are anticipating with joy our return to family, friends and co-workers. But, I now understand how in a certain sense one doesn't leave Swaziland -- the children, the people, the music and dancing the joyous worship, the friendships both forged and renewed -- have become a part of each of us.

What a privilege to make our pilgrim way with the wonderful committed team of pilgrims and to accompany our Bishop Alan & Donna on this spiritual journey in Swaziland.

Monday, October 27 - from the Lydia's

By Lydia Brown and Lydia Kelsey

Thondo, our driver and guide, surprised us all this morning coming to pick us up wearing an Iowa Football t-shirt, given to him by a previous Swazi companion. Today we split into two groups, one group headed to the South, while the other half went back to St. Augustine's.

We were with the group headed back to St. Augustine's, as we were wanting to spend more time with the children. Our first stop was Ekukhanyeni where Archdeacon Josiah had asked us to do a chlorinator demonstration. Children were just finishing up their ABC's in the classroom when we arrived. The demonstration went well and we were invited for "tea" at an off site location.

We were taken to the location of the new church they hope to build for this community, which has been growing in size. We had a bit of a dilemma when offered a koolaid like cold drink made from water we knew could be unsafe to drink. The cornbread was delicious and we did our best to be polite while not consuming the liquid.

We then headed to Mpaka and visited St. Augustine's where the children were eating lunch. Elizabeth Ward took pictures of each child, so we would be able to bring back faces and names of children to Iowa.

Fr. Dent offered us a tour of his homestead, which utilized bricks made by the 2006 Swazi companions. We headed back to town for last minute errands and to prepare for the farewell dinner and reception.

The evening was lovely, with the final understanding being that this was not good-bye, but a pledge to continue our ministry as companion dioceses with Swaziland and Brechin. We were thanked countless times for everything we did.

From Carl Mann - Sunday, October 26

Sanibonani!

I was told to keep this short so I will see what I can do although there are two parts to what I have report.
First, as transportation coordinator and primary American driver, I have had the unique experience of viewing Swaziland through a windshield from the wrong side of the vehicle and the wrong side of the road, at least from an American perspective! I probably don’t need to go into much detail as that last line says it all. As we leave the hustle and bustle of the city each morning, proceeding through the last robots, (traffic lights), over the last of the speed bumps (they’re everywhere), and begin the ascent or descent of endless mountains and valleys, I say, “Let the insanity begin!” Seriously, I am considering a third career as a NASCAR driver. It took the better part of three days to feel comfortable enough to become as crazy as the local population in regard to operating a motor vehicle. This is one of few places on earth where it is perfectly acceptable to pass the car in front of you and immediately hit the brakes because there may be a very large bovine or goat taking a leisurely stroll across or down the middle of the road. And that is on the main four lane highway, possibly even in town! When one departs the main highway to travel to one of the various outstations, one finds them self on a road that we would consider a ‘level B’ road back home; teeth-rattling, bone-busting, and maintained once a year whether it needs it or not! But that all right because that’s the way it is. Let’s just say that the panel beaters (body shops) and breakdowns (tow trucks) appear to be keeping busy. OK, that’s enough about that for now.
The second part is in regard to the 40th Anniversary Celebration held yesterday in Manzini. It was a wonderful service containing a balance of traditional Anglican and culturally rich liturgics and music which lasted for a good three hours and a bit. And that was just the first part of the celebration! Then came the ‘Welcoming’ portion of the program which lasted just a little over two and a half hours! Suffice it to say that it was good practice for the return trip on the airplane. Aside from the length, it was glorious! The order of service was followed as close as possible but when ever a unforeseen break in the action occurred, somebody would break into song in the Makwaya style (traditional African) and before you know it we were up on our feet clapping our hands, singing at the top of our lungs, and movin’ to the groove thing! It was quite amazing, actually. It was a spontaneous, heart-felt, soul-clenching worship which was as natural as taking a breath yet still very Anglican in a sacramental way. Outward and visible actions radiating an inward and spiritual grace nearly beyond description due to its heavenly source and generation; literally an inspiration of the Holy Spirit!
This entire trip as been an honor and a humbling experience in which we have been received and accepted as brothers and sisters in Christ! My everlasting thanks to the congregation of St. Alban’s in Spirit Lake and the Diocese of Iowa for allowing me to be a part of this mission.
An off-the-cuff reflection: I believe that we, the team, have been ministered to by those of whom we have met in a far greater capacity than from anything that we have had to offer them , which is striking because we have accomplished a significant amount good by the loving grace and mercies of God!
On a personal note: Jane, if you have been waiting to hear from me, I love you and miss you, and the dog, and in that order. Mom, if you read this, so far there have been no international incidents but we haven’t left the country yet! To my congregation: I hope things are going smoothly, and I will see you this weekend. Don’t forget that we have All Saints’ Day service on Saturday, and the 3rd Annual Hunter’s Mass celebrating St. Hubertus on Monday.
Hambakahle!

Carl+

From Angela Zahn - some thoughts

Everywhere I look I see rolling mountains, red earth, and people who seem to be coming from nowhere and a destination out of sight as well. I still haven’t gotten used to seeing young children walking along long stretches of road bare foot, maybe walking to school if they are lucky or home from the market, again if they’re lucky. I have to imagine each person’s story but as soon as I begin, a new face quickly appears and replaces the others in a blur. The road are littered with grazing cows, donkeys, and goats keeping the grasses at a manageable height. Mothers with babies strapped to their backs and heavy bags in each hand holding as much as they can bear, all while balancing a container (hopefully full of water)on her head. As we stop along what seems to be a deserted area for our lunch, we learn very quickly there is always someone somewhere in the dusty, red winds. I try very hard not to look up and make eye contact with any of the people of Swaziland, ashamed of what is in my hands; the guilt fills my stomach far more than the food which has been carefully prepared for me. I have been burnt by the fiery African sun, hit with the dusty, red winds, felt cold bitter enough to go straight to my bones, and have even been thanked for bringing rain to parts of the country that haven’t seen rain in three years. Africa holds so much beauty, it is like an onion; it takes some work and some tears to get through it all. Angela Zahn

From the Bishop

What a tremendous day yesterday as we celebrated the Diocese's fortieth anniversary. The exuberance and joy in Christ was palpable. I am glad that we have decided to continue focusing our relations in one diocesan partnership with Swaziland and Brechin. I have begun the process of asking the team what the Spirit is saying to them as they return home, and some amazing mission desires have been articulated already. I intend to share these with Bishop Mabuza in our final conversations this afternoon, and see where they might fit in to his overall vision. We are particularly touched by the situation in the southern region, as well as concerned to assist the water ministry to be further expanded and coordinated.

We have been honored guests during our time here, and I make it very clear to the Swazis that their ministry to us as we come among themis the making of disciples. We cannot fail to be effected deeply in our spirit by what we see, and what touch us from the brothers and sisters of all ages we meet. This communion of ours which Christ is the creator of is precious. It is a network for human compassion and caring which takes us deeper into each other's lives than we can imagine. Just sitting under the same tree where the village council meets to settle its internal disputes and then be "part of their agenda for the day" is an incredible honor, matched only by the open response of gratutude from our hosts for our coming and gift of clean water.

Of course we also tread carefully where we begin to realise that ministry has its bumps on the road, and is as dependent on ongoing work in human relationships in Swaziland as it is in Iowa. That is one reason why we seek to keep ministry coordinated at the episcopal level. Not because bishops always get it right, but because they are often at the center on the ground over the big picture. We hope in the years to come we can begin to share ministry through parish to parish. With Swaziland parishes being organised with multiple out stations, parish to parish from the Iowa perspective will mean ministering to a whole region. We hope also to think more strategically of following up on projects with sponsoring longer stays for Iowans with particular interests. There is a commitment on all sides of the partnership for multiple communication.

There is no doubt that God has given us a great gift in being partners with Swaziland and Brechin. I can only look over at those involved in this year's trip and know that God is transforming them in Jesus' likeness.

+Alan

Wine with friends

Our good friend Pat Miller from Brechin bought us all wine to share. Here pictured left to right is Jane P, Glenda, Lydia K, Elizabeth, Lydia B, Pat, Terry, and Angela.

Hello from Fr. Charles!

Fr. Charles says hello to everyone back in Iowa! He is so happy to be home and see his family, but wants to pass along his greetings to everyone back in the states. Everywhere we travel people are so glad to see him and tell us thank you for taking such good care of him.

Photos from Sunday

Saturday, October 25 - Jane Ringwald and Marva Eck

Saturday, October 25
By Jane Ringwald and Marva Eck

Today is our free day!!! We’re off to Hlane Royal National Game Park. This is a protected area and is home to the largest herds of game in the kingdom.

We boarded 2 Land Rovers and started out to see what we could see. Many dead trees, a result of the elephant rubbing against them, reminded me of scenes from the Lion King.

The Park is divided into several areas and the first one we visited is home to many rhinos. They seemed comfortable around our vehicle. The highlight was meeting a mother rhino and her baby (about 1 month old). As expected she was very protective of her little one. We also met up with a large elephant who has only one tusk. When we entered this area, a couple of the Kuudus crossed our path.

As we went along, we say many vultures hanging out in the trees. We found a carcass of an impala – probably their afternoon snack. Trees were abundant in this area, and we did see a cactus looking tree where sap is milky and poisonous (related to the poinsettia).

In another area we ran across a pride of lions taking their afternoon siesta. One of the mothers was grooming her cubs.

We were near a watering hole where there were many large birds, including a large heron, a variety of storks, and more vultures. A large beautiful elephant was also there. He got tired or our taking his picture and decided to charge the Land Rover. That was exciting, but no one was hurt. Luckily the drivers recognized the sign of a charge (the elephant’s ears forward) and got us out of the way in a hurry. Driving around the park we saw many impala.

After the drive, we had time for shopping at the gift shop and had a wonderful lunch at the restaurant. As the menu was impala – a very tender “beef like” meat. Near the restaurant was another watering hole where we saw 2 submerged hippos.

On our way home we stopped at Swaziland Candles. A nice shopping area.

Catastophe #1: Glenda ran to board one of the vans, hit her head on the van and was knocked out for a brief time. We’re all glad she wasn’t seriously injured.

October 24- Elizabeth Ward

Friday, October 24
Elizabeth Ward
Six of us stayed behind in Mpaka today. We helped Terry with his dental assessment and also Mary Jane did a nutritional assessment of the children. After the children ate their lunch of Mealy meal, beetroot and beans, we started seeing the children in groups of four. We were told their typical meal was at 1 pm each day and that’s their only meal. It consists of a corn based porridge and beans. Today there were 43 children and 6 teachers that ate and for the vegetables their cooked with 1 leek, 2 tomatoes, and the greens from the top of the beets – and that’s all they had!
After Dr. Terry and Jane did their dental exam, I helped the kids brush their teeth with their new toothbrushes we gave them in their very own bags with prayer beads, which everyone was excited came from one of Fr. Charles’ churches.
The time spent there was a blessing.

October 24 - Jim Bradley

Friday October 24
Jim Bradley
We started today with a typical Swaziland breakfast: sausage, ham, fried eggs, toast, and marmalade. This is invariably accompanied by porridge, hot tea, or instant coffee.
After sunrise service in the Thokoza Chapel, we boarded our two Toyota vans. First stop is always to fuel up the vans, and also to stock up with bottled water, chocolate, and potato crisps.
Our journey today takes us east and south toward the borders or Mozambique and South Africa. By late morning we are at St. Augustine’s Anglican Mission, where a hard-working parish priest, Rev. Mbatha and his wife run a “feeding scheme” or soup kitchen for about 60 pre-adolescent children orphaned by the plague of HIV/AIDS the effect of which is visible wherever you look here. Rev. Mbatha feeds his children from a burlap-walled 12’x12’ kitchen and a 20’ x 30’ school room, tin roofed and dried mud floor. Modern steel-trussed building skeletons are waiting to be walled when additonal funds are found. The cost of the steel skeleton includes the roof which cannot be installed until the foundation and walls are in place. According to Rev. Mbatha, last year he and his wife furnished two meals five days a week. Now, because of funding, these orphans eat only 1 meal, 3 days a week. Life is hard and getting harder for many here in Swaziland.
Mary Jane, Terry, and others stayed at St. Augustine’s to conduct nutrition and dental exams, while the rest of us traveled 30 minutes over bumpy roads to Maphungwana. There we demonstrated our chlorine machine as part of a sort of tribal or community council. Here, about 50 men and women gathered under a spreading ghude tree to decide community disputes and discuss community business. The had favorable reports about the water chlorinators from other nearby communities, and were eager to learn how to use the machines we demonstrated and left with them.
Driving back to Rev. Mbatha’s dust-blown soup kitchen, we picked up Terry, Mary Jane, and the others. On the way back to Mbabane we were hosted to cold soda and cookies by a couple that remembered Rom and Toni Noah from their previous trip.
Back at Thokoza, we practiced for our singing debut Sunday at the big 40/40 stadium celebration. We have chosen, “I the Lord of Sea and Sky” and “Do Lord, Do Remember Me.” After supper, some of us went to the Cathedral for another rollicking, Swaziland Anglican revival. Thus ends another day is this very beautiful, very dry, and very AIDS stricken kingdom.

October 24 - TR Shively

Friday, October 24
TR Shively

Hi all!

Great day Friday. Back to St. Augustine’s. Got about 50 kids in process. Their Ba be Dent and Christine send their love. Raining in Mbabane – night’s cool. Some hot days. I played “Vana” on demo team (more details later).

Special love to SKS, Kara, Troy and my prayer partners

October 23, 2008 - John Doherty

October 23, 2008 – John Doherty

Rainy day with much cooler weather. We start the day with drizzle and mid 50 degree temps. The fog is thick so there are no views as we leave Mbabane.

Our first stop was Swazi Candles and Crafts. Beautiful handcrafted candles, woven fabrics, and batik’ed materials. We all bought many things. The Swazi economy was helped.

We next stopped at St. Andrew’s School. Lucy Mabuza is the principal there (she’s the wife of the bishop of Swaziland, Bishop Mabuza). There is much need there, books, etc. many people who work at the pineapple cannery live nearby. They have very little by the time they pay rent and food. There is little left over. The school is quickly improving. We meet the teachers and looked about.

Next we all stopped at an ATM for cash that we’ll need at the market.

We are stopping at Montega Cultural Village. Bishop Alan started a volley ball game in the back of the van. We discovered prices vary a lot store to store on some items. Glenda negotiated a great price on our entry fee.

We first walked up to see Montana Falls a double waterfall about <300m tall. Then we were blessed with singing and dancing by the Matsamo Cultural Group doing traditional music.

Twice blessed with the bishop and others dancing. The Shaman asked the Bishop back to his hut, but he declined because of our tight schedule. We learned a lot about traditional Swazi village living. Bishop was presented with a symbol of his being our elder.

Found out it’s about $1,000/year to sponsor a student to school. Lower levels can be less.

We stopped at the market. We were lambs at the slaughter. Once you entered a store they would bargain you into submission. I spent every Rand on me.

We next went to St. Mathias orphanage. Terry presented pharmaceuticals and toothpaste and toothbrushes. We did a music presentation about brushing. We saw the children getting their lunch. The got a bowl of beans and porridge. They ate with their hands. I asked and they said it was the biggest meal of the day.

Saw the billboard again about savings account at banks for a dignified burial for your children. How different than us, saving for retirement or for our children’s education.

We last went to St. Margaret’s orphanage. Bishop Alan came out of the van with a soccer ball. The boys and Alan played soccer for a while and the girls played a game. The group of orphans sang for us as we gave them stickers and gum. Then we did a dental brushing presentation. There were pictures and prayers.
If you did not believe that the power of Christ could change things, you would be in despair for the world and the people and children we have met today.

The revival was great. We got there late, maybe mid-service. The singing was soulful and the preaching dynamic. We were all called to be transformed people by the power of the Holy Spirit. At one point we all were saying our private prayers aloud. It was as if the tongue of God was upon the Cathedral Church of All Saints.

Ocotber 22 - Bishop Alan Scarfe

Wednesday, October 22 – Bishop Alan Scarfe

Today we met our third Archdeacon. The Swaziland diocese is divided into three parts. And the Archdeacon Michael oversees the southern deanery. We traveled into the hotter and poorest area of the country. The drought of recent years has badly affected the people here. There’s little work in the rural areas we visited. Even the plantings possible a couple of years ago now yield next to nothing and people are showing signs of malnutrition. Mary Jane would pinch the children’s arms to test for fat presence while we were standing watching the chlorinator demonstration. She also pointed out signs of protein deficiency. Any future visit needs to be accompanied with food supplements. Our candy brought joy but helped little toward their real health needs.

I have lost count of the number of chlorinator demonstrations we have done. The team has been great. I never thought that the evangelism would come as we go through the talk, but the good news is there at the end. “This gift is free and may save lives, but there is a great and wonderful free gift from God that saves us forever in His Son Jesus Christ,” are the closing words of the script.
What struck me today - as powerful and emotional day as any I have experienced – was how we give the same chlorinator demonstration, the very same script, and yet every context, every location has been profoundly different.
We have faced cynical representatives of a local chief and the water board, wondering if we were trying to poison people slowly and questioning the science of it all. And we have been embraced by open hearted Christian and community people sitting on rocks over against gorgeous hillsides and mountains. We have joined communities under the trees and in their small churches that are spaces for worship, feeding orphans, health checks, and education.

Today, we began by meeting children – OVC’s: orphaned and vulnerable children – at St. Mary’s Church, Hlatakulu. There are no words to express their impact upon you. Then we were taken to a primary school with 340 children grades 1-7. They gathered in assembly, sang to us, and greeted us. Teachers and parents attended the demonstration as we sat again under a tree overlooking the mountains.
I was given a tour of the Headmaster’s house - foundation cracked, walls coming apart. It is condemned but he must live there as he has to give his better accommodation to his teachers. To replace it costs $6,000. Half for a new roof and then they rebuild walls and foundation.

Finally we went into the dustbowl the deeper South. They have dreams for a school, learning to grow drought resistant crops, and a church able to accommodate more people than their tree.

This was our most emotional encounter. Such humility and poverty combined with laughter and smiles and sense of gratitude to God and any of God’s servants who remembered them.

I am sure others will blog about this gathering. Everything was summed up by one woman who in thanking said, “Thank you for your gift. I know it will be very helpful to us. ONCE WE HAVE RAIN.”

I went out back to the 5,000 liter water tank by the small church. It was empty and has been for a long time. Just 20 minutes away is a government dam shared with South Africa. All that water, only minutes away from desperately barren fields.
This is the contrast of the situation of the Swazi people, facing such poverty in a land so scenic it takes your breath away. There again there’s little that doesn’t catch your breath in this journey. It really is God’s gift to us to share life with this part of God’s world.

more photos from October 21

October 21 - Chuck Lane

October 21, 2008 – Chuck Lane

The day started out so beautiful. There was light mist, it was cool, and the sun was coming up so slowly. Our first stop to distribute chlorinators was Luhlangotsini near
Pigg’s Peak. We were greeted by over 40 people waiting to show them how to use the chlorinators. We sat on rocks overlooking the hillsides. It was beautiful to see God’s creation. We were all greeted by the cattle. After showing them how to use the chlorinators, they were so thankful that we had traveled so far to do this and also for giving them 2 of the chlorinators to keep. You could see love in every face there.

Our second stop was Hhohho where we were greeted by about 20 people. Again the hillsides were so beautiful. We met inside a small church. Again the people listened as we showed them how to use the chlorinators. There was much discussion if they would work. They kept one. As we were leaving they gave us oranges and hugs. Again you could see love in their eyes even through their questions.

Our last stop was Mpofu. We were again greeted by 40 plus people. Also by the goats. Again we showed them how to use the chlorinators. They were very excited about the chlorinators and how much it will help their lives. Afterward, we were invited to a meal that they had prepared for us. The meal was great and we also had a short church service. They had welcomed us into their homes and served us a meal – we were strangers to them at first, but in the end we were brothers and sisters to one another. You could see that by the love in their eyes.

After the evening meal, we climbed into our vans and waved good-bye to them for the hospitality they showed us. As we drove down the dusty road the sun was again going down and it would be evening soon. As we drove away I thought – how lucky we all are to have clean water and almost everything we need. They have so less but so much love in their lives. They showed it by opening their homes with a meal to total strangers. I ask myself would we do that.

October 20 - Lydia Kelsey

Monday October 20, 2008
Lydia Kelsey

Lydia B. and I spent the first half of the day walking to The Mall (as it is called) through the city center searching for an Internet Café. As you all have seen, we found one! The walk through the city was so enlightening. Just crossing the street was a bit of a challenge since I always looked the wrong direction! Glenda from the HIV/AIDS office had a good laugh later when I told her I thought the people in the yellow vests on the street corners were traffic helpers – they really were just vendors for cell phone airtime! I wondered why they weren’t letting us know when to go!

After returning back at Thokoza Centre, we met up with Terry Shively, who had been meeting with the Swazi government about his dental credentials and Melody Rockwell who waited at Thokoza for us all to return. Glenda gave us a ride to meet up with the rest of the group, who was just finishing with their first CPU demonstration.

It was so great to get some time with Glenda just to talk. We noticed the overwhelming numbers of children and adults walking along the busy highway, so close to the oncoming traffic. Some would put up a thumb for a ride, but Glenda explained that you have to actually get a license or some type of insurance to take them, otherwise if you get in an accident you are held liable. The children, she said are especially a risk, since they act silly and jump around in the back seat, and if they were to be hurt in your car you would be in a lot of trouble with the law.

Melody asked about the large groups of children living in homes and Glenda said they were most likely orphans who were sent to live with other relatives. One of the biggest problems they experience is that when they are old enough to go back and claim their home in their village the chief has most likely given it away to someone else, even though it is rightfully theirs since it belonged to their parents. Melody mentioned she read a newspaper article about it and wondered if a law was being put into place to prevent this from happening, but Glenda said they always talk, but never act. The law most likely will not happen any time soon.

After the second CPU demonstration, children were returning home from school and were glad to see our group. We gave away stickers, bouncy balls, friendship bracelets from St. Paul’s Cathedral, and some candy and their eyes lit up.

October 20 - Mike Mears

Monday October 20, 2008
By Mike Mears

We travelled to Zondondo today to Ba Be Mandla’s Parish who visited St. Alban’s, Spirit Lake in 1999, to deliver and demonstrate our first Chlorinator Producing Unit (CPU). The village we visited was in a very remote rural area of Lubombo in Western Swaziland. Traveling up the rough dirt path we could hear the singing coming from inside this rustic, tiny village chapel. We were overtaken by our emotions as we listened to the closing verse of their morning worship in Siswati.

Our demonstration was received with very close attention by four young adults who the priest selected from the congregation. They took notes and learned how the CPU works by having a “hands on” training session. They even danced to shake the bottle of salt solution just like they were shown. The gratitude they had for the gift we had given was overwhelming, and I was fighting back tears.

After this demonstration we traveled to the Lomohasha region to St. Thomas Parish which was a church whose roof was built with assistance from the Diocese of Iowa. Here we demonstrated the chlorinators to another group of interested parishioners from the village. This area is only a stones throw away from the country of Mozambique. This area is so drought stricken that the water given for demonstration was very minimal. The Archdeacon from that region said, “I had heard before that clear water does not mean clean water, but now I understand what that means.” Their thankfulness was again something we will never forget.

October 20 - John Doherty

Monday October 20, 2008
By John Doherty
The poverty of the country people is staggering. Small huts with grass or tin roofs. There are many children along the roads waving and smiling at us. I can’t wait to meet them.

Notes from folks

Because we've found that our schedule is so busy and access to international calling and internet is not as accessible as we had hoped, a few of us are posting greetings to loved ones on the blog!

Marva: Hi to Ed, Lacretia, and Monica.

Jane R: Hi Becky and Scott. I'm being good!

Angela: I love you and miss you all. Hey Kids! Save me a piece of that corn eh?! And read some books!

A message from Terry

Hi All. We arrived in Swaziland safe and well. I have been busy for two days already, early morning to "lights out" organizing our projects and, of course, church today. It was a wonderful service. On Monday we head to the field. I will pick up my creditials/license and I'll be licensed to practice dentistry in Swaziland - WOW!

Love and prayers for Stevie, Kara, Tray and all!

TRS

Oct 19 - Elizabeth Ward

What an awesome day! We began our day at All Saints Cathedral in Mbabane at 8:00am where Bishop Scarfe was made an honorary Canon of the Diocese of Swaziland. We were all so moved by the bishops blessing upon the young children of the Cathedral before they were dismissed for Sunday School. It brought tears to many of us.
After lunch back at Thokosa Center we headed in our two rental vans to Piggs Peak Mts to see the bushmen paintings at Nsangwini, dating back 4000 years ago. It was a 20 minute hike down a rocky hill, up a short hill and back down again. The scenery was magnificent. Once at our destination we were told of these Zulu paintings made of red ocher. Now remember, whenever you hike down a mountain you must get back to your original starting point. The team trekked back up the trail with the chief Shepard - Bishop Alan - leaving his sheep in the dust, and at the last minute a challenge was presented and he beat me on the last uphill sprint!
Our team all returned to the vans and ate a picnic before heading to the Maguga Dam, beware of Hippos, and having afternoon tea and refreshments at the Maguga Lodge.
We had a very joy-filled day - we are truly blessed to be here and look forward to sharing more with you all.

Settling in

Hi everyone! We arrived safely at Thokoza Centre in Swaziland on Saturday around 4 pm. The drive from Johannesburg was about 5 hours with stops through customs. It was a mostly rainy ride, but very scenic! The land is unbelievably beautiful and we got a feel for rural life driving through the countryside in South Africa.

We were greeted with a wonderful reception at Thokoza Centre! There were new and old friends like Archdeacon Londoloza Shongwe, The Rev. Orma, Fr. Charles Kunene's wife and son, Glenda from the HIV/AIDS office, and Pat from Brechin. (I apologize for not getting all of the names, but we'll fill in those blanks soon!)

We were very tired after so much travel, but glad to be in our new home for the rest of our trip!

- Lydia K.

Day 1 & 2

It's 9:27 pm and we're settled in a comfortable resort in Johannesburg, about 5 minutes from the airport. It seems like it's been a long time since meeting in the Des Moines airport Thursday morning at 9:30 am. After a flight to Atlanta, with barely enough time to make our connection, we boarded to Johannesburg, stopping in Dakar. While in my mind I knew a 24 hour flight would be long, I had no idea just how long it would feel.

Luckily we each had a little personal touch screen on the seat in front of us to watch movies, tv, play games, and follow our route along the way. Let it be known that Donna Scarfe is the ultimate trivia queen. I, personally, had a rough trip, coming off with no voice and a very upset stomach. Our landing felt like a 30 minute roller coaster, circling the stormy weather until the pilots found the smoothest route - which wasn't exactly smooth. The stop in Dakar was quite an experience with safety officers boarding and ripping up the velcro seats to check for who knows what. It felt a bit chaotic, especially since it was 4 am at the time and wherever we moved we seemed to be in the way.

After arriving in Johannesburg, we each converted some cash and piled into vans to head to our resort. We made it just in time for a quick meal, with the kitchen closing at 8:30 pm and I was lucky to notice the inconspicuous computer in the corner, which cost only 1 rand per minute (about $.05).

Unfortunately my photo card was not compatible with this computer and there is no wireless here, but we'll upload fun photos tomorrow!

Tomorrow we'll wake up, eat breakfast, and travel 5 hours by van to Mbabane, Swaziland. Cheers until then! Thanks for the thoughts and prayers!

Peace,
Lydia K.

Team Trains for Journey to Swaziland

Here are Iowa team members & Fr. Charles Kunene (Swaziland) meeting in Ames in September 2008 at the 3rd of four mission training sessions...

planning & learning & praying in preparation for the journey to Swaziland.

The team flies to Johannesburg on October 16 & then will go by truck to Swaziland to deliver chlorinators, an oral health program, medicines...

& enjoy companionship, singing, celebration and worship with the men, women & children of the Diocese of Swaziland.

Oh, bless this band of sojourners as they go forth in mission!

Meet Team Iowa ~ SwaziJourney 2008

Bishop Alan Scarfe & Donna

will lead the Diocese of Iowa mission team to Swaziland

Bishop Alan ~ "This trip to Swaziland was planned with Bishop Mabuza, when we met in Madrid, Spain last June at the Episcopal/Anglican Companion Diocese Conference, and is a natural extension of Meshack and Lucy's visit to Iowa in 2005 for our Healing Mission Tour. We hope to deepen our Companion Diocese relationship with such visits, as we continue to learn from each other and worship together. I will be honored as a Canon of the Cathedral in Mbabane, Swaziland, during the 40th Anniversary Celebration of the Diocese of Swaziland."

Donna Scarfe ~ "I am looking forward to meeting old friends in Swazland and making new ones! Lucy Mabuza has been a wonderful inspiration to me as a Bishop's wife with her prayers, her concern for the people and her work with the Mother's Union. We also swap stories of how difficult it is to keep our Bishop in order!"

Jim Brady, Trinity Episcopal Church, Iowa City ~ "For many years, I've wanted to go to Africa on a mission trip. Being able to go to Swaziland at this time with this team of Iowans is nothing short of a miracle... a transforming abundance of loaves & fishes in my life."




Lydia Brown, St. Mark's Episcopal Church, Ft. Dodge ~ " I went to Swaziland two years ago, and I want to return to reconnect with the people, especially the children of Mpaka. I am eager to do more preparation for my penpal project -- connecting the children of Iowa with the children of Swaziland."

Angela Zahn, Christ Episcopal Church, Burlington ~ "I have a calling to continue my journey to strengthen my faith and my community. I know I can learn a lot from the Swazi people -- they are a people of suffering, little means and experience injustice, yet can still see the beauty in day to day life. They have a strong faith in God and are not giving up."

Elizabeth Ward, St. Alban's Episcopal Church, Spirit Lake ~ "I feel called to help the people of Swaziland and I have had more interest to go on a mission trip and the opportunity arose, so I am pleased to attend! I hope to learn more about our companion diocese and the people of Swaziland."

Dan Rockwell, Christ Episcopal Church, Cedar Rapids ~ "I am interested in assisting the Swazis in developing sanitary water supplies & making Swazi friendships. I'm looking forward to experiencing Africa with my wife, Melody."

Melody Rockwell, Christ Episcopal Church, Cedar Rapids ~ "I am looking forward to celebrating and worshipping with the Swazi people, gaining a better understanding of ways to deepen our Iowa-Swazi companion relationship, and expressing my gratitude in person to my Anglican brothers and sisters for their spiritually uplifting and life-changing gifts to me."


Chuck Lane, Trinity Episcopal Church, Waterloo ~ "I said, 'Once I retire, I will travel to Swaziland to meet the people & learn about their culture.' And, now I am realizing that retirement dream."

Jane Ringwald, St. John's by the Campus, Ames ~ "I am interested in the chlorinators we are taking to increase access to safe water in Swaziland, and want to learn all I can about the people of Swaziland, so that I can encourage others to participate in this ministry. I am especially interested in young people and their needs."

Rev. Mary Jane Oakland, St. Paul's, Marshalltown ~ "I am going on this mission trip to learn from my Swazi brothers & sisters. I am in awe of their joyful, deep faith in the midst of living with suffering and death from the scourge of HIV/AIDS and years of famine. I want to learn to move from that Western problem-solving mind through what they will teach me in so many ways, including the 40th anniversary celebration of the Diocese of Swaziland. 'I come with joy to meet my Lord.' "

Jane Perrett, St. Alban's, Spirit Lake ~ "I'd like to gain a greater knowledge of the Swazi people, their spirituality & worship. This will be a new experience for me & one in which I will gain understandings very different from my everyday life."




Marva Eck, Church of Our Savior, Claremont ~ "I want to meet my neighbor in another country & hope to convey that I am truly glad to be there & concerned about their well being."

Dr. Terry Shively, St. Alban's, Spirit Lake -- "I have a commitment to the people of Swaziland, especially the students & teachers at St. Augustine's school in Mpaka. I hope to develop closer relations with them as well as participating in the life & celebrations of the Diocese of Swaziland & extending the oral health program started in 2006."

Lydia Kelsey, diocesan youth missioner: "Traveling to Swaziland for mission, evangelism & celebration is an opportunity that doesn't come along very often. I feel blessed to have this opportunity... & look forward to getting to know our Swazi brothers & sisters in Christ, & then telling stories of our companionship so others in our diocese can share that connection."

Rev. Carl Mann, rector, St. Alban's, Spirit Lake: "I feel called to go on this mission to Swaziland & hope to learn more about our companion diocese & how they live & worship."

Rev. John Doherty, deacon, Cathedral of St. Paul, Des Moines: "I am going on this mission trip because of my interest in safe drinking water in Swaziland. I've been active in raising money & support for relief efforts, including riding in the Waters of Hope bike ride, May 2008." John says: "See www.watersofhope.org "



Mike Mears, St. Alban's, Spirit Lake: "I feel called to this mission to help God help his children, especially the orphans, in Swaziland. I appreciate all the prayers & support for our team, because all of us united in prayer will help give us knowledge of God's will, and the strength and power to carry it out."

Iowans Join Swaziland Celebration -- October 2008

We have purchased our airline tickets to Johannesburg and have completed two of the four mission training sessions in preparation for a journey to our companion diocese: Swaziland, Southern Africa.

Who are we? Sixteen Episcopalians from around the Diocese of Iowa and one Anglican priest from Swaziland, who will join Bishop Alan Scarfe and his wife Donna for the mission trip to Swaziland (October 16 - 30, 2008) to celebrate the 40th anniversary of the Diocese of Swaziland, work on mission activities, including distributing chlorinators, and enjoy evangelism Swazi-style.

The team accompanying Donna & Alan include:

*Jim Bradley, Trinity, Iowa City

*Lydia Brown, St. Mark's, Fort Dodge

*Rev. John Doherty, St. Paul's Cathedral, Des Moines

*Marva Eck, Church of Our Savior, Clermont

*Lydia Kelsey, St. Timothy's, West Des Moines

*Rev. Charles Lane, Trinity, Waterloo

*Rev. Carl Mann, St. Alban's, Spirit Lake

*Mike Mears, St. Alban's, Spirit Lake

*Rev. Mary Jane Oakland, St. Paul's, Marshalltown

*Jane Perrett, St. Alban's, Spirit Lake

*Jane Ringwald, St. John's, Ames

*Dan & Melody Rockwell, Christ Church, Cedar Rapids

*Terry Shively, St. Alban's, Spirit Lake

*Elizabeth Ward, St. Alban's, Spirit Lake

*Angela Zahn, Christ Church, Burlington

Rev. Charles Kunene, Swaziland, now serving in southwest Iowa, will accompany the team to his homeland for the 40th anniversary celebration/mission trip. Ron and Toni Noah, diocesan mission team trainers, will not travel with the team to Swaziland, but are providing team cross-cultural and mission training sessions and making travel/logistical arrangements for the team.

As we plan & prepare for our time in Swaziland, as well as during our time there in celebration, mission and evangelism, the Iowa to Swaziland Team 2008 would appreciate your sustaining prayers and support. Please join the journey with a team member in prayer and correspondence by contacting: Melody Rockwell at mrockwrite@netins.net/

Stay tuned for 'getting to know the team' posts!

Greetings all Swazi. Companions.

Well, per usual all the words, etc. could not totally prepare us for our Mission '06.

The training and shared experiences from Toni, Ron, Melody, Karen, et al, however, were very valuable.

"My land"(as my mother used to say), what an experience we shared and lived. Now we can really get our arms around..."the dust of Africa on our boots".
We all left a part of our selves there and brought home a huge portion of reallity. Will we ever think of concrete blocks, school buildings, safe drinking water, daily food, oral health and health in general the same way again? I think not and that is part of the beauty of what we brought home. The smiles, the singing, the joy! They will live on in our hearts and memories.

The reciprocal joy is that we made a difference(however small or humble) in the lives of those we interacted with. We are forever connected.
Somewhere, half-way round the world, they can know there live people who care and believe in "loving their neighbor as themselves.

Thank you all for one of the most spiritually significant and meaningful events of a lifetime..... ........................................................................TR(Terry)

reflections

I have been home in the states a little over a week now and still can't get the images of beautiful Swaziland out of my mind..... the smiles and the dust on the childrens faces, the singing voices, the smell of the wood fire cooking lunch and the warmth of our new friends. Tears fill my eyes each time I think of that young woman drinking the muddy water, and the pride the young man showed as he carried the chlorinator. We did make a difference. But they made a difference in the way I will forever view my life. I am so privileged to have been a part of such a rewarding mission. I am still writing in my journal and just finished a short piece for our church news letter. Each time I write I feel more connected to Swaziland and its beautiful people. I am forever gratelful for the experience and our wonderful team.. Margaret Hansen

Mike's Accident

Mike, Terry and a visitor sent by the Chief

We had the afternoon of Thursday July 27th off after meeting with the localtribal chief in the morning. I walked to downtown Mbabane with five others.As we were returning about 5 PM and as we passed a muti-purpose store, I tripped on a brick that was far from level. I was focused on the person in front and I went down very quickly while saying "oh shit. The full effect ofthe fall was absorbed by my left thumb which was then 180 degrees out of place and I was bleeding like the proverbial stuffed pig.

The shop owners invited the party in and arranged to help stop the bleeding. The shop owners' son was a near by physician and he appeared and offered to take me to the hospital. I chose the private hospital. Terry went with me; Toni and Stevie waited for help from the Center; andKeith and Holly went to the Center to summon help. Many appeared at thehospital.

Result was a dislocated thumb; numbing shots; relocation of the thumb; 2stitches; X-rays with nothing broken; Rx for pain, inflammation and ananti-biotic for under $300 cash. I had bought trip insurance including medical. Between our vet and dentist I was in good care. I saw the doctor again the day before we left. On 8/7 my family physician removed the stitches and referred me to PT for therapy and wound care. I am a diabetic. This was the most memorable event for me but I had many that were more pleasant. On 8/2 I revisited the shop and they were glad to see me and I bought fort he school thru the generosity of Margaret a leather soccer ball with many thanks.
Peace.
Deacon Mike

Another use for a wheelbarrow

Last day at St. Augustine's

Yesterday we began the departure stage of our trip. We made our last trip to Mpaka. Even on the trip out, it was very tough.

The big event was Terry’s program on dental hygiene, conducted for all of the childen at Fr Mbatha’s. Stevie, Margaret and Sue assisted and Fr Charles translated. The children listened attentively and then responded enthusiastically. You must ask Stevie to perform her “song and dance” for you! Later each child was given a kit including a toothbrush, toothpaste and dental floss.

The class was held outside at Father Mbatha’s because the St. Augustine’s too small for all the children to be in. The pre-schoolers are taught inside, while the older children in grades 1 - 3 take their instruction on benches under some “trees” along the back of the property. They face the trees, with their backs to the road so that they will not be distracted by cars, cows, goats, and other assorted passers-by. On our first day at Mpaka, Lucy Mabuza held a math class with the older children. She used a blackboard propped against a tree to drill them in multiplication tables, giving praise and correcting the mistakes in both siSwati and English. She sets a mean pace, I will tell you. I don’t know how the report card came out, but the teachers do, because she met with them briefly before we went to Fr Mbatha’s place.

Yesterday Gene, Holly, Keith, Carla, Andy, Meghan, Ron, Cheryl, Hayley and Terry spent most of their time mixing cement and making blocks. I think they worked through three double batches of mix, our best day. There was constant wheelbarrow traffic at the mix pile and the block forms were really flying. They were assisted by a Swazi crew, including Jack in his Oxford shirt, who has been with us each day. They also stacked the blocks we made last week.

The actual ground breaking for St Augustine’s school will happen when the grant from the UK arrives. Bishop Mabuza explained the goal of the project is to cater to the educational needs of about 70 orphans aged between 5-13 whose parents have died of HIV/AIDS. Te otesHeHhe children will also be fed and clothed. This will benefit the community because orphans who might grow up to be a burden to society are given love and hope and a future by the teachers at the school.

They have architectural plans for a steel frame structure, drawn by a volunteer who has designed and constructed several large projects, and who donated his services. Larger blocks for the outside of the building will be made or purchased and then the whole skin will be plastered. I recommend supporting two blockyards we drive past every day. One advertises “sturdy and affordable blocks”. The other company promises strength, security and passion. The 9-inch blocks we have made will be used to divide the rooms. They will need a great many more to complete the school, but we hope our blocks will be scattered through the classrooms, in the heart of the school, where the children will be taught.

We have learned a lot about what it takes to staff and run a school and feeding program like this one. The Chairman of the Board of Education was at the site yesterday. He gave many details about how to apply to register the school. Feeding programs must also be registered in order to receive government support. When registration is complete, teachers will be chosen by the Diocese, but paid by the government. The completion of this plan is likely more than a year out. The superintendent told me that there will be a wonderful pre-school and feeding program at St. Augustine’s soon and thanked us for the part we have played in getting it started.

The older grades spend the late morning in a “Practical Skills” class in the garden, while the pre-schoolers come into the homestead to play and sing. On Friday and yesterday, Margaret, Sue and Stevie made a peanut butter sandwich snack for the children. We all take turns singing and playing with them, but the afore-mentioned three, and Lydia, Holly, Hayley, Carla and Meghan are the regulars. They have gotten to know many of the children and their stories.

The women prepared a marvelous feast for our last day. A goat was killed and roasted and the rest of the meal prepared under the unfortunate goat’s skin, which was hung in a tree near the cooking fires. We had jello salad, potato salad and a wonderful cooked cabbage, onion and carrot side-dish. We had chicken, mashed pumpkin and cauliflower. The trees and the round house were strewn with bouganvillea flowers. It was quite a party.

After the meal, the children sang for us and we sang for them (we figured it was safe since it was our last day). Then the presentations started. In addition to our mission team, ArchDeacon Lonorosa and Fr Charles, the members of Fr Mbatha’s household, the lay minister, the teachers, the fellow from the Board of Education, and three members of the house of Malindza, including the Chief’s father, were in attendance. School supplies, books and other gifts than many of you sent along with us were presented in a wheeled duffel bag. Rice, beans, and fresh vegetables meant to supplement the children’s meals for the next week were presented. Each child received the toothbrush kit and an orange. Many thanks, hugs and final prayers were shared. Then we began to say good-bye to our new friends. In the midst of this, the most extraordinary thing happened. A rainbow appeared in the sky over the Lubombo Mts to the south. There in drought stricken Mpaka, in the middle of the dry season, a rainbow appeared.

Last night, here in Mbabane, the skies broke open. Thunder and lightning, followed by drenching rains washed down the hills around the centre. Today part of our group will hike at Malahlotja Preserve. They hope to see more big game, but whether they are successful in achieving that or not, they are sure to see the famous Malahlotja Falls. Just today, even though it is the dry season, the falls will be flowing mightily, a gushing fountain of water, a symbol of the life giving energy available to us in the southern Africa landscape as everywhere else.

Reflections on Changes in Southern Africa . . .from Andy

Reflections on Changes in Southern Africa

Like everywhere else, rural Swaziland (and South Africa) has changed in the last thirty years. In spite of the reports that make it sound as though poverty and hopelessness are endemic and the permanent state of affairs, to someone returning after years of absence, the changes are striking.

While mud brick and reed huts are still dotted around the countryside, they have largely been replaced by cement block dwellings, or relegated to secondary storage purposes. Because Swaziland is still a poor country, cement blocks are made a few at a time as sand and cement can be afforded. Thus there are piles of cement blocks stacked in people’s backyards throughout the countryside, almost like bank savings accounts, waiting to become the next course on someone’s new home. Half-finished buildings litter the landscape, frequently built up to the eaves, and looking as though they have had their roofs ripped off, and their windows blown out, by some recent devastation. But, in fact, they are merely mute testimony to the determination of the local people to better their lives, and they await the accumulation of sufficient resources to purchase the final most expensive items: the roof , the windows and the doors.

Bur this is another place where the AIDS epidemic breaks through to public view: many of the homesteads are in fact deserted, because the wage-earner(s) have died, and the kids have been farmed out to relatives (if they are lucky). The property will eventually revert to the local chief to redistribute (if there is anyone to redistribute it to!). Also, like elsewhere, the youth are migrating to the cities, so that the countryside is being depopulated.

Another obvious change is the power lines that now criss-cross the countryside (often on drunken wooden pylons). Power and, with it, electric lights have come to rural southern Africa, with all its implications for life not ending when the sun goes down.

The most obvious change is in the traffic. The roads in Swaziland are excellent, often dual carriageway, well contoured and planned. Traffic, on the other hand, is not. There are far fewer bicycles than 30 years ago, but everywhere a swarm of small cars and pick-up trucks. These are frequently a major road hazard, since when fully (over)loaded, (their normal status), their top speed is about 30 MPH, and less on the many hills. Thus traffic backs up behind them and the overloaded and underpowered heavy over-the-road trucks, and the kombis (taxi vans – Toyota HiAces) also fully overloaded, attempt frantic overtaking maneuvers also at 30 MPH on blind curves and hills, where both grind up together, side by side, taking both lanes, and neither willing to concede defeat.

On the other hand, because rural Swazis do not live in compact villages, but rather in homesteads (kraals) scattered over the hillsides, off the main roads the roads are essentially cattle tracks, and cars and tires take a beating, because every homestead needs its own track to the paved road. All in all, it can be a lethal mix that requires constant vigilance.

Sunday Service at St. Matthias

Last Sunday, Beth, Andy, Cheryl and I attended church at St Matthias, one of Fr Orma’s parishes. Reverand Orma is one of the women priests ordained in Nov 2004, when the delegation lead by Bishop Scarfe came to celebrate. She drove to the Thokosa Centre to meet us and show us the way to St. Matthias. As she stepped out of the car and looked around, her presence literally permeated the air. This spirited woman just EXUDES love. When she talks, you must listen.

She welcomed us with a huge smile, hugged each one of us and said, “I am so happy you are coming to my church today.” She told us we should follow in a van because she would not be able to bring us back, since there was a large community meeting at the Chief’s Kraal after the service. She had just come from visiting a family sick with HIV/AIDS and had conducted a funeral and we had better go because she wants us to have a tour of the priest’s house that Iowans had built before the service (this is the house that Ron and Toni helped build in their first trip to Swaziland). Warm words just spill out of Fr Orma, with such energy and emphasis, they feel like they are smiling as broadly as she is. So we followed, Andy driving.

The church is “just in” the Ezulwini Valley and it has a spectacular view, green even now. Fr. Orma rousted the lay minister who lives in the parish house and we had our tour. Then we followed her to her office. There she explained that in spite of the computer on the desk we should contact her through the Cathedral because she is hardly ever in her office. “If I am here, I am not doing my work”. She told us of her visits to the sick, particularly of taking a relative to the hospital in Mbabane the night before. He is in the terminal stages of AIDS. He needs to be in the hospital, but there are no beds. She takes him to the out-patient clinic for meds to help control the pain, but it does not control the pain. She wishes we could visit him so that he knows the people of Iowa are here and are thinking of him. But she has to go to the Chief’s Kraal after the services. And she is smiling. I have to write in the present tense. There is no past or future tense in Orma’s vocabulary.

Beth tells Fr. Orma about the information she has been gathering about the impact of AIDS on the communities we have visited. Orma says, “yes it is a very difficult thing to know about because people here don’t talk about it.” She tells us the story of a young Christian man who appeared at St. Matthias a few months ago. A short time ago he asked her to visit his family. One parent has died of AIDS, the other is in the terminal stages and a younger sibling is sick. And she said to him, “why didn’t you tell me? We can help you.” She said to us, “these are great opportunities to bring Christ’s love to people”. She tells that she and others go to help the sick people be peaceful and to know they will have a holy death. And the love she has for ALL of us and her work just sits on every word.

We left her office just minutes before the service started. We choose seats midway back in the church (good Episcopalians all) and are immediately given prayer books and song books. We use the Service Booklets we were given by Bishop Scarfe because there is an English translation. But we read and sing along in siSwati. It is a wonderful service. Fr. Orma asks the lay readers to please read the Ephesians text in English so we can understand it. The man reading the Psalm hands off to a women who reads from the English Bible. Later Fr. Orma gives a brief synopsis of the Gospel reading so we can follow along. She starts her sermon by telling the congregation that we are visiting from Iowa. She says, “someone tell them what you know about Iowans.” A women in the back answers ,”they built the priest’s house.” She says to us, “see, we know who you are here. Here you are known.”

She asks us to come up and say a few words, and we do. Most of the congregation understands us; and clap as we explain why we are here and how happy we are to meet Fr. Orma and her parish. Andy spoke of Bishop and Lucy Mabuza’z trip to Iowa last summer and the Healing Services. I told them that one of our priests had preached at Fr. Orma’s ordination and that Reverend Barbara had told us about Reverend Orma’s work. When we sat down, Orma said, “but you didn’t tell them the news. Your priest is going to Iowa. In November. Yes, I will visit Iowa and take greetings from the people of St. Matthias to the people of Iowa. I will visit their churches”. Everyone clapped.

Fr. Orma’s sermon on the feeding of the 5000 was very powerful. She laid out her main theme, “if you have two of something, do as Christ would do. Give one to someone who needs it more”. She said, “God’s love brings these people all the way from America. They don’t have to come here, they don’t know us. God’s love brings them to the Swazi people. Because of God’s love they love the Swazi people.” My thoughts flashed to the Commissioning Service at Christ Church, in which Barbara asked, “do you intend to carry the love of this parish to the people of Swaziland?” And we answered, “We intend to”. Well, we needed some help, but through Fr. Orma, we did accomplish this charge.

Reverend Orma walks around while she talks, giving examples of sharing sandwiches to the children seated along the side and examples of sharing school books to a youth sitting in the front row. Still more messages to the adults. One was, “what are you doing with 8 candles and you have electricity? You have electricity and you keep 8 candles in case it thunders, when your neighbors crawl through their dark house to find their beds at sunset? What are you doing? Are you living like Christ? These people came from America to worship with us and help us, out of God’s love, out of God's love we can help each other. We can help our neighbors, we can love our neighbors. When I see someone with 15 chickens or 20 chickens in the yard, I think, do what Christ would do. Feed your neighbor who doesn’t have any chickens.”

So here ends the story. Through experiences like these, we, each and all, are every day receiving much more than we have brought or given. Amen.

A Black Webbed Belt . . from Toni

Some of the orphans at St. Augustine's












An interesting thing happened on the way over here. I borrowed an old green woven cinch belt from my daughter-in-law to keep one of the bags I was planning to check secured during the flight. When I got here and claimed the bag at the airport, I noticed that the belt was missing. My first thought, and only concern, was how I was going to explain to Tonya that I had lost it. At the Thokoza Centre, when I unpacked the bag, I was surprised and amused to find no official notice in the bag, but a brand new webbed belt in charcoal black. I couldn’t imagine where it had come from, or why it was there.

This whole week I have been trying to figure out what this meant. Is it a metaphor? Is it an omen? Or is it just a black webbed belt?

During Father Advent’s sermon Sunday morning it finally struck me. The black belt is all the unexpected assistance that has turned up at just the time most needed to solve the mini-crisis of the moment. It was the night watchman coming out of the 6:30 a.m. shadows to throw a bucket of water on the windshield of the van and melt the ice so that we could get to church on time. It was the kindness and resourcefulness of the owners and staff of the A to Zee store who made sure that we got the help we needed when Mike fell down. It was Terry finding a key ring that would fit his finger and could stand-in for a wedding ring during his and Stevie’s renewal of their marriage vows. It was the guides at Hlane National Park pooling their information so that everyone was able to see the animals. It was Bishop Mabuza’s eloquent defense of the project and of why the chief, and his councils should allow us to continue to work at Mpaka.

It was so many large and small beneficences that have made our first week in Swaziland comfortable and smooth.

And so I give thanks for black webbed cinch belts – as well as for delicious food, beautiful weather, sensitive and cooperative traveling companions, the awe inspiring beauty of the Kingdom of Swaziland, but most of all for the never-failing graciousness, goodness and warmth of the people of this country.

South Swazi

Greetings from Mbane and Thokoza center. Yesterday was gratifying, disurbing, potentially life changing. We drove to the very southern edge of the country, through beautiful mountains with forests of gum and pine trees. Then farther south, into the dry country bordering Natal, which was visible across the valley on our right. We picked up the Archdeacon of the southern area and Rev Nancy, known to those who were on the last Swazi trip. She graciously offered us tea and a variety of treats, very refrshing after our morning drive. She has a neat and beautiful church surrounded by a large garden. There is such a shortage of priets here that each serves several parishes. One of her's is very poor, so each time she goes, she brings them food and cooks dinner so they don't leave church on an empty stomach. Still, it is so far for some that they must be hungry again by the time they get home.

We then drove to this parish, so the Coe team could demonstrate water chlorination. This was poverty. Folks here live in traditional wattle and daub homes with straw roofs. They were probably wearing most of the clothes they own, and they were ragged and torn. Mostly barefooted, even the adults. Since traditional women always cover their heads, theirs were covered with whatever they had, including woolen mufflers or a stocking cap.

But what really gripped us was their water situation. Below the village (and as Gene the vet pointed out later, below the cattle dipping tank) is a water hole which fills with rain water and from which every living thing gets their water for the year. This was a smelly muck hole that even cattle would turn away from if they had a choice. As it was, the cattle dived in up to their bellys in mud to get at the water. And the people drink from this too. They got us a couple of buckets (it appears they've laid logs over the mud to get at the water), which was thick and brown. Paula asked if this is the water they drink, and one of the young women laughingly grabed a small pitcher, dipped it in and drank from it. If any of us had done that, we'd be in the hospital today. How do their immune systems allow them to do this? Rev Nancy says it is the hand of God, protecting people who have no other hope.

The Coe team demonstrated the chlorinators to the 20 or so people gathered there, then asked someone to go through the procedure. A young man stepped forward and immediately went through the entire procedure accurately. Shows how fast one can learn when the information is important to you. It turns out he and his wife live closest to the water hole and will be in charge of distributing chlorine to all who come for water. The archdeacon emphasized that the chlorinator is to belong to everyone in the village and chlorine is to be given to everyone, Anglican or not, Christian or not. Rev Nancy will be checking back to see that it continues to be used and used correctly.

We then did the rejoicing and celebrating, giving them "I am loved" buttons and our packed lunches, them singing to us in return. Then they all returned to their homes, some of them heading far across the valley, carrying their babies on their backs and other goods on their heads, water buckets, a machete, whatever. It was a great day for us to see what a difference a small gift can make, a day to see how much God has for us to do, an example of how we cannot give without receiving, a day too much to take in but to ponder on and make sense of over time.

Beth

On Safari at Hlane

Today we went to Hlane Wildlife Preserve. It’s the largest protected animal park in Swaziland. We were guided in 3 land rovers through 30,000 hectares. Believe it or not, there was a chill in the air today and slight frost on the grass this morning. We saw Impala, not the Chevy, the herd type. The guide explained that the “M” marking on their tush stands for McDonald’s – to the lions. One of the greatest sights, was to see 7-8 white rhinos – 5 of which were laying in the middle of the road. Their heads are HUGE, not sure how their necks don’t get stiff.

We were within 10 feet of a young male elephant. He had only one tusk, which the guide explained he lost one in a fight. It was fascinating to see him swirl his trunk around the tall grass, then kick it with his foot, so that he was not pulling up the roots.

We also saw a pride of lions, which blended perfectly with the tall grass. The guide pulled the land rover within 25 feet of these gorgeous animals. It was incredible. We also observed were warthogs and numerous birds.

We had lunch at the reserve, under a giant tree with branches that reached down to the ground, so it was like eating under a large, living umbrella. As we were eating, our treat was to watch the rhinos at the waterhole.

Afterwords, we visited the house that Fr. Charles is building. The landscape was absolutely breathtaking, with a view of a great mountain scene.

The extreme contrast in life here is almost indescribable. Fr. Charles and Arch Deacon, Lona Rosa are two of the nicest, compassionate men I’ve ever met. And yet, due to “random acts of violence”, we stay within the gates of Thokoza Church Centre in order to be safe. The mountains and valleys are absolutely the most beautiful on earth and yet the HIV/Aids rate for adults is estimated at 42%, which means nearly half of the adults will be gone within the next 5 yrs. ArchDeacon LonaRosa said he is burying 8 people per week from the parishes he oversees. It’s very tough on the priests And even though poverty is a huge problem here, you hear the people laughing together – often.

Going back in time – yesterday Sue showed her Godly play story to the children. It was the story about Abraham’s life. When she was done, she asked the kids what the most important part of the story was. A girl raised her hand and said, “To pray to God everyday”. Sue agreed and said that God always knows what’s in our hearts and he wants to hear from each of us, because we are all his children. HOW COOL IS THAT???

Another question: “How does this story relate to you and your life?” One boy said that he is now living here on earth, like Abraham was in the story.

That day we fed the kids peanut butter sandwiches and gave them stickers, which they put on the faces and arms. They loved both.

Something very whimsical that day. Stevie and I decided we would help the women do the dishes after lunch. We went by the fire where their children were. Their skinny puppy started a tussle with the rooster, which fluffed up it’s feathers. The puppy was winning the boxing match. The puppy also took on the goat, but the goat won.

Every day is a great adventure. Thank you all for your prayers. We all feel it and are very appreciative. Ohh and good news about our songs. We are sounding better together, as we will be called to sing on Wednesday, the night of our going-away celebration. Luckily, Meghan is very good at playing the Xylophone. Carla and Lydia have been practicing a great duet, “I’ll be a Sanctuary.”

One more week here….

Reflections by Cheryl

Riding through Swaziland. . .

Hi everyone, you who seem to be a world and a lifetime away. And yet all too soon our time here will be over and we will be re-entering our reality. But will we ever be able to leave this reality behind? Reading about the Third World is one thing; being here is another. So many things amaze me about this land and its people. Everywhere people are walking, so close along the road we hate to travel after dark because we fear hitting someone. Women with large bundles on their heads and a baby tied to their backs. And the cattle roam as if this were India. Brahma type cattle with mean looking horns, but they seem to get along with the young children who walk along for miles through the fields to their homes, unaccompanied by adults. Children here are given so much freedom here; it has to be building their sense of competency. They are also tremendous workers; they seem to assume if they are strong enough they will do whatever work they are capable of doing and feel proud of themselves for it; no whining here.

Houses are scattered over the hillsides, either on plots people have been able to buy title to (no further taxes unless it’s annexed by the city) or that the head man/local chief has given them. So that means plots can be separated by random spaces of open grasslands. Fields are brown now because it’s winter, but you can tell they know about terracing. I’m surprised that there is not a vegetable garden by every house, but maybe that’s what the “agriculturalists” are being trained to help people learn to do. With such a long growing season, one would think they’d be able to bring in something from garden to table about all year. But I don’t have energy for a vegetable garden after driving home from work, why should they after walking home. They grow tremendous cabbages here. We followed a pickup truck—called a van here—piled to a peak with cabbages for market, and not a one rolled off. We also see semi-loads of sugar cane, bags of raw sugar, timber, and oranges, most of which is for export rather than local consumption. When a chicken costs $3, you know most of the people are not eating meat, just lots of mealie meal.

Spring has been coming on, visibly during the past week, with new flowers coming into bloom, a purple magnolia like tree, yellow spikes of something, wild pears, royal coral trees. One good rain and I think the whole world would burst into green.

We went to a wild life reserve today, and I think Cheryl would like to tell you about that, so I’ll turn it over to her.

Beth

The Chief's Kraal, part 1. . .from Lydia

Today we visited the chiefs home, or royal kraal (corral in America). It was very interesting. After our initial welcome, the Bishop and Ron made small speeches about why we were here and what we were doing in Swaziland. The chief also welcomed us there. When the Bishop asked if we could take pictures to take back to the US, the Chief said that they should be the ones asking to have their pictures taken so that the world could see more of Swaziland. Then the Chief and his council took us tour or the property. There was a small area where the warriors would meet with chief, then a small cow pen where a young boy tended the herds. Outside there was a large area where women were sifting sorghum. They told us that this sorghum is also food for the orphans. There were a few huts where the young men stayed when they harvested the sorghum and a place where the women prepared the food. The last place we visited was the house of the Chief.

On our way back to the welcome hall the Chiefs jester grabbed me and dragged me to the front of our group towards the Chief. He was talking in SiSwati so I couldn’t understand him, but a woman next to me said he was taking me to the Chief to be his bride. The Chief seemed very surprised at this news and laughed with the rest or us. At our farewell, as the advisor was thanking us for coming, the Chief leaned over and whispered something in his ear. Then the translator said ‘and I understand there is a young lady among us that has to stay here in Swaziland with the Chief’. Everyone laughed and when we went out side to go, I got my picture with the Chief. Mom mentioned that I would like to come back to teach at St. Augustine’s. I told him I would look him up and he said “You’ll find me here”.

Lydia

A Visit to the Chief's Kraal

On Monday, our first day at Mpaka, we were closely observed by the "headman", representing the Chief of the district. He sat in a chair under a large tree and just observed. Until the demonstration of the chlorinator. . . This got his attention.

His presentation to the assembled group was quite enthusiastic. He welcomed us to Swaziland on behalf of the Chief. He said it was very unusual for American visitors to get their hands dirty in Swaziland. He said, in fact he had never seen that before. He also commented that it was good to see American women working alongside the American men. He said it would be good for Swazi women to see that. Maybe they would work harder. This brought a variety of reactions from our group, as you can well imagine. Luckily none of them damaged US international relations.

At that time he invited us to the Chief's Kraal. He said the Chief would want to meet these American visitors and would be very interested in the chlorinator.

He returned to the worksite on Tuesday to say we were officially invited. He said, all the women must wear skirts. Sue asked what the men would wear. His reply - whatever they want. They're men.

So today was the day. We left the Thokosa Centre early to be sure to arrive on time. Bishop Mabuza, ArchDeacon Lonorosa (sp. with apologies), Fr Charles and Fr Batha were with us. This was one of the most fascinating meetings that any of us have ever attended.

I will leave it for another member of the team to sketch this meeting out for you. There were many stages and phases that bewildered us. I'm sure you will hear many different reflections on what went on. But it seems that all ended well.

One part I will mention, I just have to, is that the Chief himself repeated the observation that "you people don't do this kind of work". I know this. You people don't do this.

He also mentioned his appreciation for the gift of the chlorinator, that would be available to the whole community, all of whom really need it.

He and many other speakers thanked us for coming and said that he hoped we saw a community that worked together to solve community problems.

More on this later, Paula

Behind the scenes at St Augustine's. . .from Sue

July 26
On our journey to the worksite at Mpaka each day we see so many interesting things.—today we discovered that they mark the road lines by placing white dots alongside a rope. They come back later with yellow paint to join the dots together. We see basket makers, tin smiths/people selling roasted corn on the roadside. Animals run free here—goats, cattle all graze on the side of the road. Children—even very young children walk along the roadside with cars whizzing by. This goes on all day and well after dark. Today we noticed a sign on a store for “23 Psalm Investment!”



We had a wonderful day at the worksite today where we go to make bricks. However today there were so many extra hands helping that instead of fighting for a shovel we had time to get to know our new friends. Whereas the first day my offer of help with cooking the meal was turned down—I think because we were guests—today my offer of help was accepted and I got to chop potatoes and beets for our lunch. While doing so I had my language lesson! Cheryl learned to carry a bag of oranges on her head.

When the St Augustine School children came for their lunch, Cheryl and I had a great game of football. Lydia played a game of basketball with another group of children, and tried to learn their rope-jumping game.

After lunch the children sang songs for us, and some of us danced while they sang. We were taught to dance as the Swazi people dance. After that, our resident dentist, Terry asked us to help him distribute gum to all the children. It was a great treat for them and they never knew they were cleaning their teeth!

Sue

More on blockmaking. . . from Gene

July 26

What a great day at the work site. We were making more blocks today and 5 or 6 children were trying to help fill the molds and pull the slipform off of the wet block. Several of the boys tried to pull the form off but just could not do it. I pulled it off and began making more blocks while they helped fill the forms with block mix. They again wanted to try to pull the form off of the wet block. A couple of boys tried again and could not pull the form. A little girl wanted to try so I let her have a turn, and lo and behold, she did it. We gave her a round of applause and filled the form for another block. The boys were even more determined to pull the form since they had just been shown up by the girl in the group. This time they were successful. I soon found myself standing back and giving them some direction on how to fill the form, shake it and then pack it so they could then pull the form. We applauded as they were successful in making one block after another.

I must admit that I was a bit annoyed at first as they were slowing the process of making blocks down by wanting to try but not being successful at doing it. After they got the hang of it and began making one block after another, I realized that I would be gone in a week but they would be here to help continue making blocks in the future for their school. We were so proud of their accomplishment. As Andy said, it was a Tom Sawyer moment.

Gene

Blockmaking 101

Step number one.
Move five wheelbarrows of sand to the mixing area.










Step number two. Add one bag of cement mix.
Step number three. Mix. Mix. Mix.




Step number four. Add 2.5-3 large buckets of water.




Step number five. Stir well.



Step number six. Load into wheelbarrow.


Step number seven. Cart to blockmaking area.


Step number eight. Shovel into molds.




Step number nine. Tamp down and remove the form.

photos, may be slow to load`

Beth went to church at one of Father Advent's parishes on Sunday. About half the population of Swaziland is under the age of 15, and so are the parishioners.

Andy and I were at St Luke's with Fr Charles. The chairman of the school development fund showed us the Anglican school there. Here we are in a typical classroom.

A few of the 500 interested parties look on.

All of the Anglican schools are full and they operate on very limited budgets.

Mpaka, a Meeting and the glass factory

Sanibonani,

This is a midmorning update from the Water Group, taking advantage of an unexpected opportunity to jump on the web.

This morning, most of the team climbed into the vans and head to Fr Batha's homestead for a half day of brickmaking. We are willing shoveller's, cement mixers and form packers, but we don't have the talent of our Swazi lead man. Many of the blocks we make fall apart when the forms are lifted. No problem, just try again! Andy thinks we'll have it down soon, maybe next Tuesday, our last day.

Many members of the group have made friends with Swazis at Fr Batha's homestead. Fr Batha established St Augustine and the women at his homestead prepare the meals for the children at the school. The feeding program at St Augustine's has been reduced to three days and they have been serving only meali meal due to ever more limited resources. So the children were not at school yesterday, but will be there today. We hope to help with the feeding program even while we are here, if this is possible.

The water situation is also not good. With very limited rain water remaining in the barrel, they have to use water from a nearby pond for washing and preparing food. On Monday our group demonstrated the chlorinator. They are using it now at Fr Batha's homestead. This was an amazing experience that will require an entire post. I will collect pictures tongiht to illustrate the text. I'll post the whole story tomorrow.

The vans are driven each day by Ron and Father Charles, priest at St Lukes parish of 5 churches. Fr Charles is a most remarkable man, as those of you who have met him know. Soft-spoken, quick-witted and possessing excellent English, he gets one of us going in circles each day. Small price for his help negotiating the plan for the day, and our many bright ideas, i.e. changes in those plans. One of our group thanked him for his patience. His response, "I am African. In Africa you must be patient. Otherwise you would be frustrated most of the time." Yes. But how do you actually do that?

Our stay here has been anything but frustrating, because of our gracious hosts. Father Advent has been called to University two weeks earlier than he had planned, so Father Charles is in the driver's seat, literally. The accomodations at Thokosa Centre are good and the meals are wonderful. We have been asked if there is anything we would like to see and do in addition to what has been planned. There is so much in the plan, we haven't requested any additions. Each afternoon on the way back from Mpaka, we have a side trip to a market or other attraction. Today the group that went to Mpaka will come back early for a trip to a glass factory and rug factory north of Mbabane. Our hosts provide these ideas and we ride along enjoying the scenery and then the places we are taken. The air is SO CLEAN and REFRESHING and the sunsets so SPECTACULAR, they cannot be described.

OK, so what am I doing here in Mbabane when most of the team is making bricks in Mpaka? Bishop Mabuza arranged for us to meet with representatives of two Ministries - "Geology and Mining" and "Environment and Tourism". Today we met with the assistant director of the Division of Geology and Mining. I was able to ask him about the survey operations they perform, about their use of GIS, and whether they use college interns to do the work of digitizing existing data. Hayley, Carla and Meghan were there and Thdebekile, the director of the HIV/AIDS program, was our Swazi guide. (I apologize for what I am sure is not the correct spelling of her name.) We were graciously received and got much information we could not have learned elsewhere. We also purchased a set of very fine maps. One thing we learned is that this division drills boreholes upon application and could perform that service at St Augustine's. There is a very long list of applicants and only two field teams. However access to ground water at St Augustine's, at some point, will not be a problem.

I must run now -- down the road, across the river and up the facing hill -- to lunch at Thokosa Centre.

Thank you to all the prayer partners, relatives, friends . . . who are supporting us. You are mentioned often at the table at the end of the day. We are, each and all, being nourished by the experience of this mission. This thought has been expressed by each member of the team. For me, the image is of working hard each day, but finding at the end, cool refreshing water drawn from a very deep well.

I stand in awe of our Anglican companions.

Paula

July 24 and July25

We spent our first two days at the "work site".....in Mpaka.......about 1 1/2 hrs. from the Center in Mbabane where we are staying. BIG breakfasts for workers! Met Bishop Mabuza, his wife Lucy @ St. Augustine's school.

Here Bishop Mabuza, Father Dent Mbatha, ArchDeacon Shongwe and Iris, the head-teacher tell us about the program.

We met the 4 teachers and about 100 students......3 classes ....52 preschoolers and the rest grades 1-2 ...we think.

Two classes inside the school......w/a few chairs and 1 chalkboard......a few hadmade posters lined the walls....w/alphabet, etc. The older students were seated on benches under a tree w/a chalkboard....next to the "kitchen"......a tent(about 10x10 ft.) where meals are prepared for the children.

We moved to Fr. Dent Mbatha and his wife Christine's homestead......where we were taught to mix sand, cement and water to form concrete blocks. The first day we had about 5 Swazi men and youth to instruct and help us. The second day.....the main blockmaker, Jack, was there. We had 2 wheelbarrows, 6 shovels (2 without hand grips) 2 watering cans and 2 metal block forms to make the concrete blocks. It takes 3-4 days for the blocks to cure.....w/watering 3-5 times a day.

The first day the children joined us at Fr. Dent's where we were working for dinner.....ar. 2 p.m. They had dried mealy meal, beans and bread and butter sandwiches. We were served mealy meal, rice, fruit and fowl Monday and beef, rice, and pasta w/a mixed fruit for desert. Christine, Fr. Dent's wife and Ntombie are our cooks.

Am Under the time gun!! More Later! Love and Peace!!! Stevie Shively :)

Sanibonani from Swaziland

Our weekend arrival was very welcome - to us and to our hosts. It did mean we did not have access to the internet until now (Monday, 8:45AM). None of the phone cards have worked in Swazi phones. So this quick message is meant to say "we arrived in Jo'berg on a smooth and uneventful flight, happy to set our feet on terra firma in Africa!" We are all well and well settled in.

We enjoyed a wonderful warm welcome from our Swazi host committee and the parishes we visited yesterday. The Bishop hosted a welcome dinner at Thokoza last night and we were briefed on the HIV and education programs in the Diocese of Swaziland. We had each seen something of the situation they told us about.

We also toured the beautiful north country and the Maguga Dam yesterday.

When I sign off, we will be on our way to Mpaka.

Our plan from now on is to make daily posts to the blog between 4 and 5PM Swazi time. That's mid-morning in Iowa. Check back for more details and reflections from members Swazi team members.

Sala Kahle (good-bye and stay well).

Success

It's about noon in DC and we're awaiting the boarding call on SAA208. We all have boarding passes, the luggage has been transferred from United to South African Air, and there's actually a plane already docked at the gate!

We were able to talk to Mike before he boarded our original flight yesterday. So we know he and Gene and Ron are already in Johannesburg. Tomorrow AM we will be there too! We are certainly ready. Thanks for your supportive thoughts and prayers.

Yeeebo!

Well, it isn't Swaziland

We are spending our first night of travel at the Dulles Hilton. Flat-screen TV, a spa-type bathing room, all the amenities. How did this happen?





The day started as planned, with the group of 15 convening at the United ticket counter in Des Moines at 4:45. Everyone arrived on time and there were no problems with luggage. We met Julianne, our “24/7” contact. Bishop Scarfe, Donna and Dave Oakland came to the airport to see us off.

We had a rocky landing at O’Hare and then nature’s fireworks really started. Lightning, rain, more lightning, more rain. Our 8:05 AM departure to Dulles and then our 11:50 departure time to Johannesburg came and went. Toni and Andy stood in line, negotiated with United gate agents, and covered all possible bases for alternative flights with South African Air. The rest of the group chatted, walked, read, slept, played cards and snacked on Keith and Holly’s stash of goodies, and maintained good spirits. .

We finally left O’Hare on our original United flight at 12:50PM and arrived at Dulles to start the game of finding alternate flights to Johannesburg all over again. At present we have “guaranteed seats” tomorrow on the flight to Johannesburg we should have been on today. But we don’t have tickets or boarding passes yet, so stay tuned.

We have plans for breakfast and a 9:00 departure for the airport to obtain the coveted boarding pass, proof positive that we are about to embark on our Swazi adventure.

Mission Team to Leave on July 20

Our mission team will leave on Thursday, July 20 for the flight to Johannesburg & then the six hour drive to Mbabane, Swaziland on July 21. Their mission in Swaziland will end on August 3. We ask your blessing prayers for their journey:

Living God, eternal Holy Spirit, let your bright intoxicating energy, which fired those first disciples, ignite our Iowa mission team in spiritual companionship with our brothers and sisters in Swaziland, as they work together to build St. Augustine's school for orphans in Mpaka, Swaziland. Amen.

Meet the mission team in the attached photo -- all but Mike Stewart, who will join the team from his new home in Tennessee. Kneeling front row left to right: Carla Horsley, Hayley Bright, Sue Genereux, Lydia Brown. Standing left to right: Keith Scherff, Terry Shively, Gene Warren, Paula Sanchini, Beth Robbins, Stevie Shively, Cheryl Valenta, Margaret Hansen, Meghan Felton, Ron Noah, Toni Noah, Andy Pettifor & Holly Scherff.

16 Iowans Set for Swazi Trip

Hailing from the southeast corner of Iowa to the northwest part of the state, the newly-formed Mpaka Mission team gathered on January 21 at St. John’s, Mason City, to get acquainted and plan for their July 20 to August 5, 2006 trip to help build a school for orphans in Mpaka, Swaziland.
Photos: Children from Mpaka, a village in the Swaziland lowveldThe mission team includes Gene Warren, St. John’s, Ames; Sue Genereux and Margaret Hansen, Christ Church, Burlington; Andy Pettifor, Beth Robbins, Cheryl Valenta and Paula Sanchini, Christ Church, Cedar Rapids; team leaders Ron and Toni Noah, Grace Church, Charles City; Lydia Brown and Keith and Holly Scherff, St. Mark’s, Fort Dodge; Ginny Ryan, Trinity, Iowa City; Mike Stewart, St. John’s, Mason City, and Terry and Stevie Shively, St. Alban’s, Spirit Lake.

The Iowa SwaziCompanions ask that you undergird our 16 missioners with your prayers. Pray for these people who are giving of themselves to represent our diocese in the important work of building a school and developing companion ties in Christ with our brothers and sisters in the Diocese of Swaziland. Pray for them as they prepare for this vital mission, during their sojourn in Swaziland and on their return home. Pray as the Swazis will surely say to each of these Iowans, “We thank God for you.”

—Melody Rockwell

Quote of the Day

Christ has no body now on earth but yours, no hands but yours, no feet but yours; yours are the eyes through which Christ's compassion looks out on the world, yours are the feet with which He is to go about doing good and yours are the hands with which He is to bless us now.
—Teresa of Avila

Twelth Night Festival at Christ Church, Cedar Rapids

O, come let us give thanks in the house of the Lord:
For the festive reception hosted on January 6, 2006 by the Roses and Sandbergs;
For the glowing candles, three magi, and star-led procession, and for the joyful singing and sermon of the Epiphany service;
For the 100 people enjoying the culinary miracle of turducken and trimmings perfected under Diane Pettifor's excellent leadership;
For the artistic transformation of the undercroft created by Susie Streit;
For Libby Slappey's laughter-promoting auctioneering that netted $5,000 and counting to build a school for orphans in Mpaka, Swaziland;
For all the many people who cooked, set up, cleaned up, signed up, offered meals for auction, bid at the auction, made generous donations, and participated in a myriad of countless important ways,
We give thanks.

—Christ Church Twelfth Night Festival Committee and Swazi Companions

St Alban's Children Donate to Swazi School

During November, the children of St. Alban's, Spirit Lake, worked on Operation Christmas Child, led by parishioners Elizabeth Ward and Vera Schmidt. A program of Samaritan's Purse, Operation Christmas Child involves children in a simple mission project in which they provide gift-filled shoeboxes for children around the world.

PHOTO: The children of St. AlbansIn December, the church school continued the theme of helping children in other lands. They made rain sticks and learned African folk songs, which they sang during the service on December 18. They also dedicated their church school offering ($35) to help build a school for orphans in Mpaka, a village in the Swaziland lowveld.

Other churches or groups wishing to give to the Mpaka school, a joint project of the Dioceses of Iowa and Swaziland, should send donations to Christ Church, 220 40th Street NE, Cedar Rapids. Write the words "Mpaka school" in the subject line. For more information about the school-building project, contact Melody Rockwell.

Quote of the Day

"I don't believe in charity. I believe in solidarity. Charity is so vertical. It goes from the top to the bottom. Solidarity is horizontal. It respects the other person and learns from the other. Most of us have a lot to learn from other people."

—Eduardo Galeano

Mpaka Missions Meetings Scheduled

Mpaka Mission Meetings Scheduled
by Melody Rockwell

"The children at St. Augustine’s, Mpaka, deeply touched our hearts. These orphans presented the most extreme need we witnessed while in Swaziland." —Rev. Barbara Schlachter, November 2004

Interested in building a school for orphans in Africa? Want to learn more about our beautiful, but tremendously challenged companion diocese of Swaziland? Mark your calendars to attend one of the informational meetings scheduled this fall on Sundays at 2 p.m.

+ November 13 ~~ St. Alban’s, 23rd & Zenith, Spirit Lake

+ November 20 ~~ St. Stephen’s, 223 East 4th Street North, Newton

+ December 4 ~~ Christ Church, 220 40th Street NE, Cedar Rapids [DATE CORRECTED]

Toni and Ron Noah, experienced missioners from Charles City, will be leading these sessions. Come. Immerse yourself in photos, music and the history, geography, culture and political scene of our sisters and brothers in Christ in Swaziland. Be briefed on our new diocesan mission tentatively scheduled for July 20 – August 5, 2006 to help with school construction at St. Augustine’s, Mpaka, Swaziland. The school, an anchor building providing basic education and a feeding program for children, will also serve as an HIV/AIDS education facility, church, community center, and medical clinic.

If you are discerning whether God is calling you to Swaziland or wonder how you might otherwise support this diocesan mission trip, plan on attending one of the fall introductory sessions. The Noahs will inform you about the purpose of the trip, what we anticipate we will do in Swaziland next summer, roughly what the trip will cost and the time commitment to build the mission team before departure to Africa… & more.

Look for information about the upcoming Mpaka Mission meetings at the Global Mission table at the Diocesan Convention on November 4-5. Or, contact Ron and Toni Noah at 641-228-8126 or harimau@thenoahs.net. To become a listed member [Free! No charge! No obligation!] on the Mpaka Mission informational e-mail exchange, contact Melody Rockwell at 319-854-7393 or mrockwrite@netins.net. Also, continue to check this space for updates on the trip.

Brown-eyed children, wide-eyed children,
With beautiful brown faces.
Look up, children of the mother continent.
See the strangers, the unknown.
"Sing for them," say their teachers.
They open their mouths
And their songs open our hearts.
Their images sear forever on our eyes.
Their sounds ring forever in our ears.

Brown-eyed children, wide eyed children,
With beautiful brown faces.
Look up, children of Africa.
Smile for us.
We want to take your picture,
Capture forever the look on your faces—
Wistful, uncertain, bewildered, still hopeful.

The Jesus who said
"Let the little children come to me," says to us
"Now you have seen me.
You have seen the face of God and lived.
And what difference will it make?"


Barbara Schlachter

More Reflections

I still am waking up fully in Africa, before realizing I'm back in Iowa. The experience of Swaziland is deeply imbedded and vitally alive within, the images, sounds, touch and tastes still vivid. God was so profoundly and palpably present in Africa. As Barbara noted, "We have seen the face of God in Swaziland." This morning at about 3 a.m., I got up to ponder and write about why that might be. Of course, God is in Iowa, but why did I feel the holiness that is God less etherally, so tangibly in Swaziland? Certainly, the problems in Swaziland are more severe and clearcut. It is easier to see what God's call is in a very clarion, urgent way. Also, in Swaziland, the church and clergy and laypeople are on the frontline serving people in dire need. We witnessed courage, conviction, perseverance and generosity in large measure by our Swazi brothers and sisters. They provide a model of what it means to serve well beyond what is comfortable and convenient, what it means to live Christ's gospel message on a daily 24/7 basis. The other item I noted in my journal was the cultural static here in Iowa that too often drowns out our relationship with God, Jesus and Holy Spirit -- our busyness, materialism, media onslaught... I want to name the meanings of our spiritual journey in Swaziland -- one by one, as carefully as I pulled the barbed thorns from the material of my skirt and the skin of my legs while on the Nisela Safari. I want to focus with intentional care and discernment on the ways the time in Africa pierced my soul, emotions, goals, prayers. And in naming those penetrating experiences, I hope to retain their presence in my life.

—Melody Rockwell

Thanksgivings

Deacon Pat Johnson read the following at our farewell dinner on Sunday evening, and she gave me permission to share her thoughts with you.
Karen


Bishop Mabuza,

At our welcoming dinner you thanked Iowa for everything we have done for Swaziland. We would like you to know what Swaziland has done for us.

You have taught us about generosity of spirit, courage, and great faithfulness.

You have showed us the meaning of true hospitality.

You have helped our spirits soar with your singing and dancing.

You have been an example of evangelical zeal and church growth.

You have opened up our world to find new friends halfway around the world.

You have broken open our hearts.

You have challenged us to see things differently.

You have helped us to remember how wide and broad is the depth of God's love.

Siabonga Kakhulu. [We thank you very much.]

—Pat Johnson

It's a Wrap

Obviously, we are back! The Iowa Eleven arrived on U.S. soil Tuesday afternoon and are all busy readjusting to American culture. You'll probably be hearing reflections from the others soon. For now, I'll just do a quick wrap-up of our final few days in Swaziland.

On Saturday morning at the cathedral in Mbabane, we attended the ordination of six new priests, two of whom were the first women to be ordained to the priesthood in Swaziland. Barbara Schlachter preached a rousing sermon on the roles of women in the church and in society, with some history of the struggle for women's ordination in the United States. She shared tales of the attitudes and obstacles she and other women faced, and exhorted men to support these new women priests as they face similar challenges in Swaziland. As she stressed that women and men are equally valuable, female voices rang out across the church in "amens" and other shouts and murmurs of affirmation, praise, and thanksgiving. It was apparent that the women present felt empowered by both the event and by Barbara's words. It was an historic day in Swaziland, and both women and men were still commenting on it in the days that followed.

On Sunday, our group split up and went our separate ways to visit various churches across the diocese. I was fortunate to be able to visit the chaplaincy at the University of Swaziland and had an enlightening conversation with one of the professors afterward about the political situation in the country. As you may know, Swaziland's government is the last absolute monarchy in Africa, and a rule-of-law crisis has been ongoing there for quite a while. A new constitution has been drafted, and professors at the university reviewed it and wrote papers in hope of holding a conference to debate the document. Of course, the government axed that idea and, from what I hear, any other attempts at group debate on the new constitution. Whatever complaints we may have here in the United States about academic freedom, and about freedoms of speech and assocation, things are far worse in Swaziland.

Sunday evening brought a farewell dinner at the Thakoza Center, the Anglican retreat center where we were staying. Thanksgivings, reflections, and good-byes were said, gifts and addresses exchanged, but we still had another day of learning ahead of us. On Monday, we met with Revd. Bheki Magongo and Glenda Mbambo, who run the Anglican Church's AIDS education program. Their presention was quite impressive, so much so that a description of their work deserves its own post. Tomorrow I will write more details here on what we learned.

A large group saw us off at the Manzini airport on Monday afternoon, and even though the airport security guard threw us out of the lobby because of our singing (the first Swazi to say a cross word to us!), we still managed to share heartfelt good-byes with all. After parting and waiting near our gate for at least half an hour, we were touched to notice upon boarding the plane that our Swazi friends were still watching for our take-off. In my heart I am still waving good-bye.

Our trip may be over, but this blog will continue on. Stay tuned for more thoughts and reflections, and for our ideas for moving forward to strengthen the companionship between Iowa and Swaziland. Your ideas are welcome, too. Just click the "comments" button below, or email us at our new email address: iowacompanions@yahoo.com.

Peace,
Karen

Day 8 in Swaziland

Friday morning started with a brief eucharist in memory of Jean's best friend, Norma Madison of Des Moines, who passed away this week. Norma was very excited for Jean to come to Africa.

Later in the morning, the group met with the Mother's Union in Manzini to learn about their orphan project, which Iowans have supported. Clementine Mashwama gave a presentation about their work, which focuses on four areas: life skills (i.e., sewing, cooking), bereavement counseling, HIV/AIDS education, and Bible study. The women have worked with the schools to map homestead areas to identify the orphans. Twenty-five "caregivers" meet with the students, ages 6-12. Students who have completed the program come back as volunteers. The meetings occur every fortnight. The availability of the building they use keeps them from meeting more frequently, and the women hope to have a building of their own one day to solve this problem.

In the afternoon we traveled to one of Fr. Charles's six churches, St. Mark's in Lundzi, located in the Usutu forest. The hour-long drive into the western highveld was bumpy, but it was nice to see pine trees and so much green. It was a perfect day, sunny but with cool mountain breezes.

Our mission was to paint the interior of a new church, but we started late and Fr. Charles expected we wouldn't have time to do much more than drop the paint off and leave. But Iowans started picking up brushes and pouring paint before he had a chance to suggest otherwise. In about two and a half hours, and with the help of several local boys, we had put a coat of paint on the entire interior of the church. Fr. Charles called it a miracle.

More to come on Saturday's ordination of the first two women priests in Swaziland, so stay tuned...

Karen

A Day in the Lowveld

We spent Thursday touring the lowveld, the region of Swaziland most affected by the drought. Swaziland is in its third year of famine, with about 1/3 of the population dependent on food aid, up from 1/4 last year. Swaziland's population is 1 million, and according to Fr. Michael, our tour guide, about 120,000 live in the lowveld. The region is heavily affected by HIV/AIDS. Those who are infected here don't live as long as in other regions, because treatment isn't as effective when people are malnourished.

The landscape we drove through was both stark and beautiful: dry, dusty, and hot, with flatlands and gently rolling hills against the backdrop of the Lumbombo Mountains. It reminded many of us of the American Southwest.

The government seems to neglect this area, perhaps because the rural people are traditional and the king does not have to work hard to keep their loyalty. We spent hours upon hours on some of the rockiest dirt roads I've ever been on. Looking from a hilltop, there were no paved roads to be seen.

We spent most of our time visiting three schools. Students in Swaziland must pay fees to attend school, whether public or private, and must also pay for uniforms and books. The government has committed to pay school fees (approx. $100-200 per student) for the 60,000 orphans in Swaziland, but has yet to come through on its promise.

The first school we visited was one supported by World Vision and is where Pat Johnson sponsors a child, and they were able to meet for the first time. We we return, you must ask for one of us to tell The Snake Story! (No time here, but it is worth hearing!)

The other two schools were Anglican schools. All three schools seemed to be struggling under their responsibility of educating the orphans without the government's help---one school has 49 orphans, another has 180 designated as orphans and vulnerable children. Most schools provide at least one meal per day, if not two.

The children we met all seemed very bright, though, and excited to meet us and learn about America or whatever else we had to tell them. Very hungry minds and great senses of humor. At two of the schools, students were forced to stand in line for 10-15 minutes in the heat and sun while someone told them who we were and what on earth we were doing there. They were SO patient and well behaved for this!

Our final stop was a visit to a small hospital. It is relatively clean and orderly. There isn't much room, though, and patients are allowed to stay for two weeks before being sent home again. Patients lie on the floors and in hallways, often on foam pads with no sheets. So many dying, and so many way too young.

This was a hard day for us, to see such suffering all in one trip. I'll close with Fr. Michael's words: "We thank God because they still strive."

Peace and love,
Karen

More Quick Comments

Hello, all! We are all still alive and well, and have been going, going, going since our last post. We'll have a full report soon, hopefully tomorrow. For now, we will post some quick comments just to let you know what we've been up to.

Our itinerary has changed a bit, but the trip to the lowveld, and our fast, are still on for tomorrow. Monday we visited Deacon Orma's orphan care project at St. Margaret's. The children greeted us with quite a singing performance. (Bishop Scarf and Donna repaid the favor by leading them in a few boisterous rounds of "Praise Ye the Lord," a children's song involving a lot of jumping and shouting.) Orma's project feeds over 50 children per day on most days. She shared their needs for more cooking equipment and staff. Afterward we visited St. Mathias, where Iowans helped build the priest's house six years ago.

Yesterday we visited Hospice at Home, delivered medical supplies donated from Iowa, and heard a report from the director on their work in Swaziland and their current needs. Then we visited a game reserve and saw some Swazi wildlife.

Today we went to Luve in the middleveld, where Iowans have sponsored a well and a garden project. We shared a gracious meal with Fr. Eric and his family, followed by a visit with the Shongwe family, who are sponsored by Iowans. (The eldest son Sipho visted Iowa in 1999.) The Shongwes are suffering a great deal after the death of the father and a daughter from HIV/AIDS. A second daughter and granddaughter have tested positive, as well.

We are seeing the effects of the drought in some of our travels, and it is pretty overwhelming. This afternoon we visited St. Augustine's orphan care project at Mpatha in the lowveld. The church there feeds 112 children one meal a day for four days a week, plus provides some schooling three days a week. The children seemed markedly less healthy in this desert region than other children we have seen so far.

Everyone on the trip is doing fairly well healthwise, so no worries. This is beautiful country and has been very warm, with some Iowa-like storms which hit the East and West but unfortunately skipped the lowveld.

We send our love and will report again soon.

---The Iowa Eleven

Hi folks! Yes we made it and it's been so intense that I'm glad you'll be hearing from a lot of us. To participate in two such different liturgies on two days was mind/spirit-bending. From grief and solemnity to bubbling joy, and in both, a deep spirit of gratitude.

First, about Archbishop Tutu. When they were censing him him, he was laughing; when they were singing a greeting hymn before he preached, he danced (subtly but unmistakably). And best of all, his sermon praised the African bishops present before he spoke about Bishop Mkhabela. And they are all heroes. We have a lot to learn from this part of the Church.

Lots of personal greetings and inquiries after Iowans, esp. the Noahs and members of other work parties. Special grettings to Charles City from Frs. Gregory Makubu, Sipho Shongwe, and Mandla Dlamini, who have included Charles City in their Iowa travels. Clementine Mashwama (George's widow) is flourishing and organized the fundraising for the new St. Thomas. From what I heard my last visit, for a widow to be living so vibrantly is a powerful witness for Christianity. God is good.

Love,
Kate Campbell+

Barbara, Gina and Melody are all fine, send their love to Christ Church and families and will write another day.


From Swaziland--
Everyone is OK--We are being treated royally. Planes were on schedule and we are very busy. Just want to send love. Miss you--fromn JEAN (McKinney)

We're Here!

Sanibonani! (Hello!)

We arrived safely in Swaziland on Friday evening but have been so busy ever since that we are just now getting to the blog. So far, our travels have included a 13-hour layover in Frankfurt, enough time for exploring and sight-seeing. We arrived in Jo'burg Friday morning and were greeted by Canon Charles Kunene, Archdeacon Gregory Makhubu, Canon Advent Dlamini, and Ms. Themba Yame Dlamini, the Diocesan Registrar (a role similar to that of our Diocesan Chancelor). We traveled overland through plains and mountains to Mbabane, a five-hour trip.

We spent Saturday at St. Christopher's in Siteki, a small town in the far northeastern part of the country, for the funeral of the Rt. Revd. Bernard Mkhabela. Bishop Mkhabela was the first Swazi bishop of the Diocese of Swaziland and was highly revered as a pioneer for the rights of Swazis. (Every speaker also mentioned his punctuality, so we can guess that he probably wouldn't have been too happy to know we were late to his funeral!) The 4 hour ceremony was highly attended and was officiated by five bishops from across the Province of Southern Africa and from Iowa. The sermon was delivered by none other than Archbishop Emeritus Desmond Tutu.

Yesterday, we joined the people of St. Thomas at Lomahasha, in the northeast corner of the country, as they celebrated the dedication of their new church, partially built with funds and labor from Iowa. This 5 1/2 hour service was also packed, and the singing and dancing could hardly be contained. Bishop Scarf preached, and Bishop Meshack Mabuza read a list of projects Iowans have done in Swaziland that surprised even us.

Iowa and Swaziland: Companions in Mission

The goals of the companion diocese program are twofold: (1) to strengthen the Anglican Communion and (2) to strengthen one another. Our diocese has been in companionship with the Diocese of Swaziland since 1990. Over the years, many of you have heard about Iowa Episcopalians traveling to Swaziland (or have traveled there yourselves) and have met Swazis when they have visited here.

Because of the dire economic, health, and political issues in Swaziland, the focus of our companionship is often on how we can help. Of course, sharing our resources with our brothers and sisters in need is an appropriate response to God's call to compassion. But our companionship is about much more than service projects. As partners, we join in mutual ministry across boundaries of geography and culture: As we minister to Swazis, Swazis also minister to us, and together we minister to the world.

Harold Frakes, a longtime friend of Swaziland from Trinity Iowa City, has a favorite quote from Mother Teresa: “If we have no peace, it is because we have forgotten that we belong to each other.” Diocesan companionships help us to live into the idea that we Anglicans belong to each other, even as we struggle with our differences. May God continue to work through us all as we seek to fulfill the church’s mission “to restore all people to unity with God and each other in Christ” (BCP, p. 855).

Swaziland Trip, November 10–23
This month, 11 Iowans will join Swazis as they dedicate the new church at Lomahasha and ordain three to the priesthood, including the first two female Swazi priests. We will also visit parishes around the diocese, learn about the work of St. Margaret’s orphanage and the Mother’s Union Orphan Project, join two work projects, and tour several national sights. (See itinerary and list of travelers, below.)

Follow Our Travels!
Daily entries on this site will chronicle our journey. Comments and questions are welcome; simply click on the “comments” link below each entry.

Meet the November 2004 Missioners

Following is a list of those who will be journeying to Swaziland in November:

Katherine Campbell, priest, Grace Church, Charles City (2nd Swaziland trip)
Pat Johnson, deacon, St. Thomas, Sioux City (2nd trip)
Jean McKinney, deacon, St. Paul's, Des Moines (1st trip)
Paul Meginnis, laity, St. Luke's, Des Moines (3rd trip)
Karen Nichols, laity, Trinity, Iowa City (2nd trip)
David Oakland, laity, St. John's, Ames (2nd trip)
Melody Rockwell, laity, Christ Church, Cedar Rapids (1st trip)
Alan Scarfe, bishop, Diocese of Iowa (1st trip)
Donna Scarfe, laity, Diocese of Iowa (1st trip)
Barbara Schlachter, priest, Christ Church, Cedar Rapids (1st trip)
Gina Young, laity, Christ Church, Cedar Rapids (1st trip)

Tentative Schedule

WED, NOV 10 Depart from Iowa for Johannesburg, via Chicago and Frankfurt, GermanyFRI,

NOV 12 Arrive in Johannesburg, travel by van to Mbabane

SAT, NOV 13 9:00 a.m. - Funeral service for Bishop Bernard at St. Christopher's in Siteki
3:00 p.m. - Visit St. Augustine's orphan care project and garden scheme

SUN, NOV 14 Dedication service of St. Thomas Church, Lomahasha

MON, NOV 15 Visit Mlilwane game reserve, St. Margaret's orphan care project, national museum, national archives, cultural village

TUE, NOV 16 Lundzi Church – Here the group may participate in the painting of this new church, which will be dedicated by Christmas 2004.Visit Ezulwini handicraft centre and Ngwenya glass factory

WED, NOV 17 Visit Mother's Union opharn care project, Zandondo-Holy cross parochial district, Luve garden project

THU, NOV 18 Visit Hlatikulu, Mpandesane, St. Antony orphan care project, St. Augustine

FRI, NOV 19 A tour of the western archdeaconry

SAT, NOV 20 9:00 a.m. – Ordination service at All Saint's Cathedral

SUN, NOV 21 Farewell dinner at Thokoza

MON, NOV 22 Fight departs from Manzini to Iowa via Johannesburg, Frankfurt, and Chicago

TUE, NOV 23 Arrive in Iowa

Under Construction

This site will be the new Internet home of the Companions of Swaziland. The old site will be active until this one is built. You may also want to check out Mission Minutes, the web journal of Iowa Episcopalians in Global Ministry.