Our arrival at Matamba

On Saturday, October 28, Denny Werner and I arrived at Matamba in the mid-afternoon.  We spent Friday night at Njombe which is the seat of the bishop.  We stayed at the Cathedral rectory.  Unfortunately the Bishop was away but the priests in residence treated us very well.  We were especially appreciative because Friday was the day we had car trouble and our arrival was quite late.  A meal was ready for us and we had an interesting discussion learning about the diocese and then it was time for bed.

We left around mid day and made our way to Matamba.  The last 40 minutes or so was up the mountain.  There were over 50 steep and sharp switchbacks which made for a rather harrowing ride.  Fortunately, Fr. Mbiche has done this many times and was an expert at navigating the road.  It was a very ride and I am glad we were not doing it in the rainy season when I am sure it is even more treacherous.

When we arrived at Matamba the pastor (Fr. Albert Mlingo), the students and staff of the school and parish were awaiting us.  They surrounded us with their welcome and led us to the parish grounds.  There we were seated at a specially decorated table and the children performed for us. 

They did calestenics.

They danced.  They did a skit.

They gave us gifts.

It was an overwhelming experience.  When we were done we had supper and a fairly low key evening.  A German medical student was in Matamba, Antonia Becker, and she provided these pictures.  She was doing residency in Dar es Salaam, met Fr. Albert, and came to spend some time at the health center in Matamba.  She expressed interest in returning after her studies to work among the people on a more permanent basis.  That would be a great blessing.

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