Yesterday was a busy day! We played soccer with the boys and girls from RVH rescue center.  USA for the win!  

Today we attended the Rift Valley Hope church at the girls’ rescue center where we were able to experience a genuine African church service.  In contrast to an American church service, the atmosphere was very lively, and everyone participated in one way or another.  Being guests, it was culturally appropriate for us to get up and share a song and a testimony.  One student graciously shared her story, and the group got up and sang the song, “Lord, I Lift Your Name on High” with dance moves.  Dr. Dixon blew it out of the water with his dancing (jk).  After church, we served the people of the church ugali and sukumawiki (a traditional Kenyan food).  

After worshipping and serving, we had lunch and a surprise birthday party for Sarah, Hannah, and Maggie ( an RVH staff member) with the RVH staff.  We only sang “Happy Birthday” eight times. 

After lunch we had the privilege of meeting with a Kikuyu elder. He shared information about the tribe and traditions. At the end of our time together, we were given unique tribal names—some of which we cannot pronounce. We also experienced a traditional celebratory act—but what happens in Kenya stays in Kenya 🙂

It’s been a long day, but we are excited to be seeing Rift Valley Academy tomorrow. We miss our families back in the USA, but we are quickly becoming a family here in Kenya.

Lala salama (good night/sleep peacefully).

by Jesse & Emily