Celebrations

Megan's English class Ceremony

It has been a time of celebrations on the island. They’ve talked about it for the past month, but this weekend the moon will be sighted-- marking the beginning of a month of fasting for islanders. So there has been an urgency to squeeze in last minute parties, celebrations and picnics before the fasting begins. During the month of fasting islanders aren’t allowed to eat or drink during the day. So one reason they want to celebrate before the month begins is so they can celebrate with food!

Family after ceremony

That’s why, Monday found us cramped into a crowded hot classroom- surrounded by islanders ready to receive their certificates for passing level 2 of English. There had been a press to get our English classes finished, exams given, results posted and certificates presented. Speeches were made in three different languages (English, French & the island language). Gifts were presented. Certificates were given. Pictures were taken but finally the customary plates of samosas, cake and peanuts were eaten. Somehow the celebration wouldn’t be complete without the snacks at the end.

Tom hanging out at the picnic

Another reasons they like to squeeze the parties before the month of fasting is because- why not? So last Sunday found us sitting among the palm trees and banana trees, with fields of cassava and solitary cows and goats around us, drinking from fresh coconuts and eating fish fresh from the cooking fire. The main activities of the day were just eating and chatting. We had originally planned to have a team gathering that afternoon, but a week beforehand, we realized, “Wait, that is the last Sunday before fasting!” While this may not seem significant, we knew it meant that we (and our teammates) would be given many last minute invitations to picnics, parties and other outings. A great time to hang out and deepen relationships with islanders. So we pushed our team gathering back and sure enough, almost everyone on our team was invited to a different picnic, some being invited to more than one. Islanders love to party on Sundays and this was their last chance.

Woman making chili sauce for dipping

But then there is the final reason why islanders try to make the most of the time before fasting. They believe that God has his eye on them more closely than normally during the month of fasting. So the good things they do count for more during that month and the bad things do too. So perhaps we shouldn’t have been surprised when at our picnic they broke out the wine! (Islanders believe God forbids all alcohol.) Or when we got reports about another teammate’s picnic lingering into the night with scandalous dancing and other questionable activities. This is their last chance before God’s eye is really on them.

Picnic cooking up

Hopefully this month we’ll get a chance to share that we think God is always near to us.  He’s always watching over us--and that for us, this is a very comforting thought.

PRAYERS ANSWERED
The ladies book study continues to go well.  Tom had a long talk with a good friend about the true meaning of fasting.  The English classes have finished well and we are very happy with the results.  Grace is finishing up her home school curriculum this week and we are thankful for the way she has enjoyed this program.  Many people continue to borrow books from our library, some of them taking books that tell the stories of Truth.

PRAYERS REQUESTED
The month of fasting is a unique time on the islands- we often get a lot more chances to share with people but also some people can be more argumentative. This is our team’s first time experiencing this month. We are starting this evening by having a rotation of 20 hours straight of prayer for this month. Pray for opportunities, good conversations, the right words and protection for us on the islands. If you want more details of how to pray, let us know. One brother is asking for prayer for more fellowship in his village- right now he is alone there.