Church Day

My next to last Sunday in Gulu. I really cannot believe that this trip is almost over. Today was a busy busy day. I woke up early for church. This Sunday I went to the Luo service so I could see and hear the traditional instruments played. Every time I go to a church in Uganda I am in for a surprise. The music was entertaining and the service interesting. The churches here preach a lot about money and giving what you have to others and it is extremely awkward to me because of the manner in which it is completed. They had 3 collection times and during one of those people who could not afford to give money gave various items such as maize and potatoes. After collection a member of the church actioned off the items to raise money before church continued. (so in the dead middle of church this happened, I was baffled) During one part of the sermon, an elder lady tried telling me that I should give her my purse and all of my silly bands that I had on my arm. She had already taken 4 silly bands from various children. The music and dancing in church is amazing. I am definitely glad I gained that experience. After church, the two professors, Hilary, Daniel, and I went to a local restaurant that served traditional food. I shared rice and greens in a g-nut sauce with daniel and Hilary. I dont think I will be eating rice for a long time when I get back to the States. After eating we went back to the hotel so we could change for the rwot’s ceremony. (rwot is the acholi word for king and the actual title is Paramount Chief) The ceremony took all afternoon. We ate, watched Bola, a traditional dance, and heard speakers from parliament and kingdoms. It was interesting but long. A few of us was finally able to sneak out of the ceremony after about 4 to 5 hours of being there. When leaving we got swarmed with children, some of which who yanked my hair. (I hate being the only blonde) I was so thankful to finally arrive at the hotel so I could shower and crawl in bed.

Quote
“It is not the camps that worry us anymore, it is the war inside our heads”