I roused from bed at the usual time to head downstairs for a taxi ride to church. Dress for the day included my longest skirt and a t-shirt; best to cover up as much skin as possible for the conservative Baptist flavor that fills much of Myanmar. Adrian had replaced his usual wear with a long sleeved shirt and a tie (the expected clothing for male foreigners). A good friend of Hrang from seminary met us and shuffled us into a taxi. We arrived at the church 20 minutes later.
Shortly after being introduced to some of the church elders, Adrian and I were asked to decide who would get up and speak a few words of welcome and thanks for their inviting us. When our friend translated this for us he distinctly said whoever was going to speak should offer thanks from the US. Adrian took this to mean I was the chosen one. :) Not the first time I've been asked on the spot to greet or give thanks. Kind of comes with the ministry territory.
So began the 2 hour sit-a-thon in high heat/humidity. I don't think I have ever fallen asleep during a sermon, but this was dangerously close. I could barely keep my eyes open as it was all spoken in Burmese and just sitting made you sweat. Despite the hot weather, we were offered a song book in English so we could participate.
After the service we joined the two pastors who led the service and some of the church folk for lunch. At this meal, as at most, we were treated to generous portions of rice, oily onion soup and flavored meats (curried chicken, fried fish with tomatoes and some version of what looked like beef). Our hosts encouraged us to take seconds and to "eat up!" Eating hot food actually doesn't make you feel any warmer than before. The food was always delicious and filling.
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