Congo Blog X

Wednesday August 1

Went to the Bobiko church today for the second seminar. It was about twenty minutes away in the other direction. They had printed up a nice welcome sign for us in English and though the turnout was much smaller, it too, was a good day. The ladies joined us for this day’s meetings and once again we did not sit on the platform. We were careful to have Thelma, Kathy and Bear (Beverly) up front with us and made sure they were engaged in the conversation, too. We hope that in doing this we are modeling greater respect for women.

Near the end of the seminar, as we answered questions, we encouraged the women in attendance to speak up. We knew there was a question among the women because they had approached Thelma during a break and asked if she would ask the question during the session. Thelma wisely declined, encouraging the woman to ask the question herself. When we resumed Thelma let us know the situation and so Kevin publicly encouraged the women to speak up.

After a period of silence a very nervous woman did finally stand up and spoke. Her question was why the church had a rule that a woman must be able to read to become a deaconess?

After some clarifying questions the Pastor Responsible spoke up. He said there was no such rule. So it appears that someone had said this to the woman in order to keep her in her place, but now the truth was out. It was good to see them experience the result of openness and dialogue. What the actual result in that particular woman’s life will be is hard to know. But I trust that when the truth is known freedom will follow. I’m also hopeful that the things we modeled will influence attitudes towards women. I find myself wondering if the most important thing that happened during our time in Tandala was Gordy’s public comments of high regard for Bear when he preached at one of the churches. Apparently pastors don’t do that and it caused quite a buzz when he did.

When we returned to Tandala we got things packed up and sent half of the group, plus as much luggage as possible, back to Gemena (including the two chickens tied on to the luggage rack). We were packed in tight and the 2-1/2 hour drive was long as we bounced down the road. But it was nice to get back and be able to send a note out on email.