Tanzania Partnership

7  Each one must give as he has decided in his heart,   not reluctantly or under compulsion, for   God loves a cheerful giver.   8  And   God is able to make all grace abound to you, so that having all sufficiency [ e ]   in all things at all times, you may abound in every good work. 2 Corinthians 9:7-8 When Shepherd of the Valley travelers worship with our partners in Tungamalenga and Makifu Parishes, we’ve learned to ask a question before the service begins. “How many offerings today?” In Tanzanian worship, the offering of tithes and gifts is processional, with each member bringing their gift to the front of the sanctuary, to the accompaniment of celebratory singing and dancing.  The first offering represents one’s regular commitment to the work of the church. It is used to support pastors’ salaries and the general ongoing expenses of the congregation. A portion of the offering is passed along to the diocese to support the wor...

These remarks were shared by Jim Odland during Tanzania Partnership Weekend worship, January 24 - 25, 2015 at Shepherd of the Valley. T his service is intended to give you a glimpse into the colorful, vibrant and joyful lives of our brothers and sisters of Tungamalenga and Makifu parishes.  Like heaven, I think you have to be there to really experience it.  I am honored to share a few observations about my time there this past summer. There’s a constant pace in Tungamalenga with 12 hours of daylight and 12 hours of darkness each and every day of the year – constant commotion since people are outside in the temperate air, continuous crowing of roosters and the unusual sounds of the Islamic Call to Prayer several times a day.  The rhythm somehow provides our friends with joy, contentment and a general sense of welcoming peace that rubs off on all of the visitors we send there. The people of Tungamalenga and Makifu parishes live hard lives to be sure....

David Larson traveled with the second group from SOTV. Here is some of what I learned, experienced, or was reminded: 1)  I have enough.  (Of everything) 2)  I learned to be thoughtful in how I give.  Give only when others are ready to receive. 3)  Tanzania's "Freedom through Unity" is possible in the real world.  To organize around cooperation, not competition. 4)  I do not need flush toilets, but I like them. 5)  I loved how General Secretary Chavella summed this up:  "We are poor, but we are happy.  You are rich, but you struggle to be happy."  Very wise perspective for those of us dealing with the burden of material possessions that distract us from what is important. 6)  I have difficulty with languages, but lots can be done without language.  Marsha, Randy, and Margo were outstanding role models. 7)  To be 2 weeks off the internet was relaxing and a relief. 8)  Tanzania has...