Week 74

A whole new world -Aladdin

Another part of the city

Week two in Rwanda. Missionary work is so different here, but in a very good way. Last week I hinted at some difficulties stemming from the church closure last year.  Last week was special because of Elder Stevenson's visit, but this week I was able to get a better view of what challenges present. We currently meet in the small upstairs room of another church building on the other side of town. Getting to church takes a fairly long bus ride, and it can be a struggle for many (especially families) to come on Sunday. The things I had previously heard about it scared me, but I was very happy with what I saw at sacrament meeting. The bus came late for many, causing the meeting to also start late. The space was a bit crowded, and you could hear the congregation downstairs pretty clearly. These things could easily bother someone, but as I looked around I was so happy so see so many devoted members willing to show their faith and come to church even with the less than prime circumstances. As I looked at the situation from their perspective and came to really understand it, I was touched. I am excited for the transfer ahead here in K3.

We were also blessed to have the baptism of Sister Alphonsine, who started learning from the previous missionaries (Elder Anim and Harris). She was a referral from the missionaries in Logan Utah, where her fiance has been living. (Not far from home, huh?). It was so great to see her get baptized by Elder Anim who started teaching her!

I am out of time, but I am grateful to be here serving in Rwanda. I love you guys, have a great week!

-Elder Winn

The Baptism