A church here invited me to help with the children’s program at their Easter Convention. The church started gathering Friday evening but I and Darlena came on Saturday morning. There was a gal named Sarah who was heading up the kids and had an outline of how it would go.
Saturday, there was two sessions one in the morning and one in the afternoon. Sarah took control and led songs, verse memory and the story of Jesus’ death and resurrection. She had songs and little activities that kids were able to interact with. I was a supporter. A child controlle— haha. There were 116 kids in a one room building church on benches. Control was needed!
In the afternoon, they had free time. I thought this was great. I have been to weekend programs where it is just session after session. Here, Sarah and others organized games for the kids. It was nice to see young girls involved. So many times i find girls do not get to participate in fun because they are helping around the house and working.
After game time, we had another session. I had a picture book of the Easter story. Sarah told the story and I showed the pictures. I also had some time to teach some simple songs and games. I led in verse memorization too.
Thankfully, the night before it rained and the weather was cloudy and cool. I am sure that is why i had stamina. It was a long day but I was thankful for Sarah who took the bulk of the work.
What we were doing was a benefit to the kids but also to the adults so they could sit and listen well under the teaching that was given to them. I know how important that is for leaders and I am glad I could serve them in this way.
We slept on mats in a school room and bathed outside with walls around us. There was electricity there and so we had a fan at night. Lovely. But, I did wake up with a real pain in my lower back. My lower back normally growls at me but it is manageable. That morning…eishhhhh…it was hard. I AM GETTING OLD!!! AHHHH!!!! I( have tried some exercises and ibuprofen. Be praying!)
Sunday morning’s session seemed a bit more difficult to keep the kids quiet. It was a chore as they love to hit one another and then a little one is crying and then older kids are talking in their groups. The ages were from 2, to 14 years old. It is quite a job to teach all of them, in one room, no microphone, no movies, no powerpoint, no speakers…God is faithful. This time with the picture book we asked the kids to tell us the story and they did well! We went over the memory verses again and sang songs. I shared the Gospel and had anyone who wanted to, pray with me to follow Jesus as Savior.
It was a full 36 hours. I am thankful people supported me to be here so I could support this church in their ministries in Ghana. I am thankful God’s Word went out and He will accomplish His will with it. I pray seeds have been sown in good soil and they would grow to maturity. I am thankful for Sarah. She really had the brunt of the work but seemed to take it all in a stride. She really has a gift to work with kids.
It was also an adventure for Darlena who is a city girl. She has never stayed over in a village. She coped well. She said the worst part was, “the troublesome children” and the best part was, “joining in the praises and singing with the kids.” Glad she could experience this too.
