Sunday - The Commissioning

On Sunday, the team had the privilege of attending the formal commissioning service for the new church building in Sankpem village, a small remote mud-hut village in the Northern Region.  The village is predominantly Muslim.  The Christians there have been meeting under a tree for several years. 

Upon arrival, Chris and Cheryl were taken to meet the Muslim Chief, something that is considered customary in this culture.  After Cheryl cut the ribbon and everyone got settled in the new church building (a one room structure), we began to sing.  Shortly after that, we began to hear very loud, rhythmic drumming.  Boy, we were surprised when the Chief and his elders walked in, followed by the village drummer, who was announcing his arrival.  The church leaders rushed to get a bench, which they placed right at the front.  The team was sitting in the "choir" section, so we were facing one another.
 
After that, we began to hear more drumming and in came the cultural dancers.  Wow!  I cannot even describe that experience.  I hope to post a video when we get home, so be sure and check back.

There was a guest preacher and lots of singing and dancing.  The team had great fun joining the circle of dancers and most of them have decided that our churches back in the states could learn a lot from African worship.

Even though we had a lot of fun at the commissioning, the significance of what was happening was not lost.  The church members have been praying for a church for many years and so have we.  We thank God for his provision for Sankpem Church.

When Cheryl unveiled the plaque that was attached to the outside of the building, it read

"Hope Mission Church".

That pretty much says it all.

P.S.  And as a thank you gift, we received a live goat as a gift from the Chief of the village.  A. LIVE.GOAT.