Muhoroni

On the way to Muhoroni Orphanage today, we were reminded of how dangerous it can be to move around in Africa, especially at night.  We came across a bad accident, it looked like two semi’s collided, that spread flour and salt packages all over the highway.  The road was under construction and it was very bad at that spot.  Picture in the album below. This is why we try never to drive at night.

Once we got there however, it was a great day.  We arrived in time for a short tour before church started.  I introduced Thomas Alwala to my mother and reintroduced him to Morgan.    The place is really looking good.  We were wrapping up our tour when a car pulled into the orphanage and out popped Alfayo Bodi, from Ndhiwa orphanage.  He brought with him his wife and two friends from Homa Bay.  He had driven a long way just to meet my mother, Charlene.

Then it was time for church, my mom’s first experience in a Kenyan church.  She loved it, as did I.  They worship with such passion and feeling.  When they thank God for their daily bread they are not just mouthing words, they mean it.  They pray with the assurance of those who actually have been saved from death by the Father’s hand.  Everyone should get to witness this kind of worship. During the service, many small kids drifted up to sit on the laps of the three Neale women, it was very cool to watch.

Another piece of good news accompanied Alfayo’s arrival; he was preaching, not me.  He did a great job, with John from Homa Bay translating.  He preached on stewardship and used my mother as an object lesson for part of his lesson.  He said that we must be good stewards of all that God has entrusted to us, including our kids.  He said he was so glad to get to meet her, because she had obviously been faithful to God in raising me.  My head was swelling, but I was so happy for her to be honored in that way.  Kenyans really respect their elders in a way we do not.

After church as we were walking back into the orphanage, one of the older orphan girls came up to my mom and walked with her.  Her name is Mildred Acheing.  My mom told me about their conversation later.  Mildred said, “I wish I were you.” 

My mom replied, “Oh, no you don’t.  Your life is just beginning and mine is nearly over.  You have so much to live for!”  She turned and looked at her and said, “You are a beautiful girl and you will be a strong woman!  Put your shoulders back and walk tall.  You are a strong woman!”  It’s conversations like that that can change lives.

After lunch, Susie and Maureen presented Pam’s aprons to the two feeding station widows, who were deeply moved.  My mom had brought some assorted sewing supplies that she gave to all the widows.  They were especially happy with the zippers, which are very expensive here.

As rain clouds threatened, we hurried to depart.  Hugs and pictures and handshakes all around, and we were back at the Tea Hotel in no time.  Tomorrow we will see Kericho Feeding Station, another of my favorite places.  Pics below…

9 Oct v2