2023 Trip to Liberia - Day 2
Today we arrived at The Light of the World Academy about 9:30. Our plan was to attend their church service which was scheduled to start at 10:30. When we arrived the first person we ran into was little Sarah dressed in her Sunday best, as was her brother Ebenezer. The entire congregation was dressed in their best clothes for church.
During construction of the building that will include the church sanctuary, services are held in the lobby of the school. When we arrived ther was a younger man putting on a class to those who came early about the “Power of God”. Once he was finished more people began to show up and pre-service worshiping began.
Once the service started Pastor Sylvester introduced us to the congregation and invited us up front to give us traditional African shirts to wear for the remainder of the service. Pastor Sylvester presented his message and praise and worship continued. In all, the service lasted about 2 hours.
After the service we were invited upstairs to visit the children who were receiving their Sunday School lessons. It was amazing to see the number of children that Pastor Sylvester is providing for with his school and church. Kids around the world are so much alike. (Notice the young man in the first row who appears to be napping😊)
We were then invited into Pastor Sylvester’s office where we were served a traditional African meal prepared by his wife, Youngor. The meal consisted of rice, fish and chicken with African spices. I think they toned the spices down for us as it was not too hot. It was very good and filling. Pastor Sylvester also provided Pringle Potato Chips in case anyone didn’t like their meal.
After lunch we visited the ruins of Hotel Africa. It was a world class hotel that was totally destroyed in 1990, during the last Liberian civil war. It stands today as a vivid reminder of the horrific destruction that took place during the last civil war.
After visiting Hotel Africa, we headed back to the school for a Parent Teacher Association meeting. Nearly 100 parents showed up for the meeting. It was so wonderful to hear the parents come up and talk about how much they appreciated the school that Pastor Sylvester has provided for their children. They are so thankful for the opportunity their children have, to go to school at The Light of the World Christian Academy.
It was time to start our journey back to our hotel and recharge for tomorrow. Sunday has been an inspiring day here in Liberia!
We appreciate your continued prayers for our trip and for the people of Liberia.
Jeff