“I thank my God every time I remember you, constantly praying with joy in every one of my prayers for all of you, because of your sharing in the gospel from the first day until now.” – Philippians 1:3-4
Centennial Celebration! This was the primary purpose for our travels. We enjoyed 3 worship services (in two different towns/cities), learning more history, meeting with the president of the church, lots of road time, many shared meals, lots of French and Sango (official languages of CAR) as well as Gbaya (none of which I speak), and visiting ELCA-supported projects (upcoming blog post). It was a full, rich, and enriching time.
Opening Worship was Festive. It was held at the Bouar Lutheran Center. After worship, a Centennial monument was unveiled. Here are several photo highlights:
The next worship service was in Baboua. We traveled by caravan (one vehicle playing festive music out the back) and were greeted by a procession when we arrived. The liturgist was Rev. Rachel Dumbaye, Vice President of the church. She is the sister-in-law of former EaND Synod pastor Sarah Tade. I was the preacher for the day.
As the preacher, I delivered my sermon in English. Willie Langdji (ELCA Regional Representative) translated to French and an ELC-CAR pastor translated to Sango. It is quite the preaching experience to wait through two translations before continuing each thought segment!
As a part of my sermon, I said, “This is your celebration but we all celebrate because the body of Christ is stronger and better because you are a church.” I gave thanks for God’s faithfulness and that God’s word was received by the first missionaries one hundred years ago.
After the message, Pastor Rachel spoke words of gratitude for the message and especially for the ongoing relationship of the ELC-CAR and ELCA. In that she said, “You did not abandon us” (as it was translated back to me). This left quite an impression on me about the nature of our companion relationship. Our two denominations (and their historical predecessors) have been in a relationship for one hundred years. That is a long time! We have continued together in relationship through that whole time. I look forward to the next one hundred and more!
Closing Worship was back at the church center in Boaur. Included with the worship service was sharing of gifts and greetings as well as a presentation from the women’s ministry.
Bishop Tessa Moon Leiseth 