Benin: Day 7
It was GAiN t-shirt day. Our arrival gift from GAiN Canada was a t-shirt and a hat. We looked so clean. It did not last long to change that!
Our morning departure was delayed because of mechanical problems with one of the cars. Once that was addressed, we headed out to observe a training session organized to equip church members in the area where we were last night. They are called the Action Group and are volunteers who will provide encouragement and help to the men and women who indicated a desire to follow Jesus. Mike and Rob are very familiar with the content of the training because it is similar to resources they used with students when they severed on campuses in Canada. It is so interesting to see how small children accompany their mothers and seem to be content.
Lunch was a road side experience. We parked beside a village church. When we asked about the church, it was clear there was no connection but we were assured it was okay to stop and use the benches for our lunch.
The women decided to do some exploring. They said it was to check out the vegetation in the area. I think that is code for finding an appropriate spot for a bathroom break.
Our next stop was to the home of a pastor who helps coordinate the activity and training in this area. GAiN is doing a pilot project to help support village pastors through a “chicken project” for economic development. A Canadian chicken framer is providing the resources for this pilot in 3 locations. In a short time 100 chickens will arrive to their new home. Here a shot of the new chicken coup and the pastor with his family.
After dinner and our debrief from the day, the word ice cream was heard! Within minutes a GAiN staff member volunteered to take the team to a local ice cream shop. Looks good doesn’t it! What a great way to end the day.