Arrival of the New Bishop

Wednesday 30^th April

There was great excitement in Monze today with the arrival of the new bishop elect.

Yesterday I had arranged a couple of appointments. Precious and Charles were coming to see me to tell me a bit more about their groups. Charles works for the Danish Institute of Human Rights as the National adviser for Zambia. Precious is in charge of a small organisation that focuses on women's rights and together they are fighting to change some of the attitudes that have been present here in Zambia. If necessary they fight the cases in court.

In the afternoon I visited Buntolo where they provide support to orphaned children and try to support the guardians by selling goods they have made – bags, aprons, necklaces and baskets. I will add a photo or two – I usually bring a few goods home with me and am always interested if anyone is keen to buy them! They have a lot of problems finding a market.

On the way home from Buntolo I popped into the hospital and re-introduced myself to the doctor who has taken on the position as Director. He seems keen for me to revive the stores stock control system! I would need to be convinced that it would be properly maintained before I invested much more time on the project. However, I agreed to discuss it with Teddy and am happy to demonstrate the system – it just happens that I have a copy of the system with me!!

There is always plenty to do on the computer – checking through records and writing reports – but I am also going through a few books! I think it is a blessing that the telivision picture is so poor!

My landlady came around this morning while I was busy on the computer. She recognised me as having been around over the years, but hadn't put two and two together to realise who her tenant was. We chatted for a while and she said that she would bring a few extra chairs, more crockery and cutlery. She added that I should to let her know if there was anything I needed. As the day progressed the cleaner arrived with a succession of goodies.

I popped out to get some bread and managed also to pick up a large box of Boko cornflakes and more teabags – the two most essential items on my shopping list. Unfortunately I also need vast quantities of milk to go with them and all these items cost rather more than in the UK.Still the fruit and vegetables compensate. Last night I put together a guacomole dip using a lovely fresh and large avocardo bought a few yards from my house for equivalent of 25p.

At 15 hrs the new bishop (elect) was due in Monze. He was met at the stadium – at the far end of the high street – by a crowd, who escorted his car with dancing and drumming. Mounted police (the first I have seen in Monze) made sure the crowds around the cathedral kept in the right place. Eventually the procession reached the church and Fr. Moses entered with a large number of the local priests. He has spent the past few years in Rome, but he was brought up in Kafue – between Monze and Lusaka.

I thought that it was unlikely that a new bishop would receive a huge welcome as he came to a town in the UK. Fr. Moses will be consecrated as Bishop of Monze at a celebration on Saturday.

The church was full and I stayed just outside to listen to the addresses and prayers. For Zambia the ceremony was very short and before 16 hrs it was over and people were moving off after exchanging greetings. There were quite a number of people I knew including some from Our Lady of the Wayside and many of the local priests.

Chris

The joys of shopping

Monday 28^th April

Its good to be cooking again. To get the groceries I wander around the market and visit the small grocery shops and stalls. I meet a lot of people in this way. There are some here who have cars and then, as in the UK, tend to use them to go everywhere. With a little money you can employ a cook and a cleaner and they will sort out your food. They miss so much!!

I went into town with a spring in my step. The lady with a beatifully set up stall sold me some kapenta (small dried fish). I remarked that her stall was as beautiful as ever. She sells mainly beans and kapenta. The beans as well as being insmall containers measuring the different quantities are laid according to colour on the table and make a very effective display – I must ask if I can take a photo.

I needed some chitenges for the bag tidies and found a stall with a good variety. I chose a few traditional patterns – though knowing the material would not be manufactured anywhere remotely local!!

My next task was to buy some mayonnaise – essential for egg mayonaise sandwiches – a favourite with Jennipher. I have great problems with Nestle products. I haven't forgiven them for persuading poor and vulnerable people from giving up breast milk for their powdered variety many years ago. I have no reason to believe that their ethics have improved . So if at all possible I avoid their products. Cross and Blackwell is now owned by Nestle and it is very difficult to buy any other mayonaise in Monze. I had tried at least ten shops and was about to give up when I spotted some Nigo mayonaise – the main thing is it isn't Nestle – so they get my custom! I thanked the other shopkeepers with Twalumba to varying degrees of amusement. I bought a few boiled eggs from some young lads – as always I have mixed feelings. They should be at school not seeling eggs – but if no one buys their eggs they and their families will probably go hungry.

A few bananas, nachas (like a green skinned tangerine, but ripe inside) and an avocado pear – I already picked up some peanut butter – so I am fully equipped – well would have been if I remembered the bread!

As I passed a stall a couple of guys called me over. I went to see what they wanted. They asked me what I was doing and I said I had been shopping. It was interesting for them to know that I cooked for myself - “what about your wife”. I explained that for many years I did most of the cooking at home as well. One of the lads told me he was called Dugo, the other I am afraid had a name I cannot recall. I enjoy the banter with the local people. They are good fun and we almost always part with broad smiles on our faces.

Of course I am approached every day by people who want money. A guy yesterday said his house was broken into and everything stolen, he begged for a little and had a few items. He needed food for his family. My inclination is to put my hand in my pocket and help out. However, this happens everyday and often several times a day. The stories are harrowing and probably most are perfectly true. However, I cannot feed the whole of Monze and if I start giving to complete strangers I suspect word will quickly spread. It will also become worse for other visitors. Of course I could do less walking and shopping, but that isn't my choice. It is very rare that I give to complete strangers, but it is very painful to say no.

Yesterday was mainly a day of rest. I arrived an hour late for mass and the sermon had just began! I suspect that because there was a baptism they combined the children and adult masses. I spent much of the day sitting in the garden or in the conservatory. I also did some washing and a little cleaning. It was very good just to enjoy this place.

Chris

Relaxing

Saturday 26^th April

I now have a couple of meals under my belt and feel at home!! The cooker is OK, the shower turns off if I make sure the hot tap, which doesn't appear to work, is also switched off! A cold shower is no penance here!

Today I started to relax in what is a lovely peaceful place. I have got to know Godfrey the night watchman and Eunice the cleaner. She says she is very busy with the landlord's main house so she will probably be pleased if there is very little for her to do here. I quite enjoy a bit of sweeping and mopping!

Today I sat for a while in the conservatory / veranda.. It is probably 2 metres by 6 metres and has a tiled floor - as do all the rooms in this house. It has wire mosquito netting instead of windows but I found that when I use my binoculars it is as though I have nothing in front of me. Hence the space acts as a pleasant hide where I can spot the bird life.

Last night, as I chatted to the night watchman, what I assumed was a small owl flew past several times. I wondered whether it roosts in one of the trees in the garden. There are a number of tall trees – a large palm, a few tall Jacarandas and some Paw Paw trees. There are other trees that I can't identify. One of the tallest Jacarandas has what I assume is a variety of bourganvillia (though I am surprised that it has thorns) which has climbed to the top of the tree at least 20 metres high and its flowers can be seen displayed above it.

Friends are already finding my new abode. Diven, Obert and Raymond have visited and today Jennipher arrived with Selina nd Anna. Anna is a young girl who lost both parents and now her grandmother has also died. She has been able to attend school just outside Pemba town but has being staying with Jennipher during the holidays. Today was her first ever visit to Monze, the first time she had been inside a big house like this, certainly the first time she had spoken to people in England over Skype and, oh yes, the first time to have spring onion and tomato sandwiches!! Understandably I think she was a bit bewildered by all the new experiences!

I took the opportunity to sit in the garden and enjoy the fresh air and watch a few birds fly by. The pied crows take the place of the carrion crows we have in the UK and they have a similar call. A small bird of prey – probably a blach shouldered kite - flew over the garden and early this evening some swallows chased the insects as dusk approached. I suspect that the european swallows have left for the UK now – they probably have arrived there by now. The night sky is beautiful – a little away from the main road and therefore fewer lights. It is good to see the Southern Cross sitting high in the sky and the milky way is clearly visible. I might have another look later, trying not to disturb Godfrey.

I have certainly been blest this year finding such a lovely place.

With love and prayers

Chris

Settling in at Fairview

Friday 25^th April

Despite my lack of faith I have now moved into Fairview Road.

The house actually turns out to be even bigger than I had imagined. I have a room with en-suite facilities, lounge and kitchen. I am told that there is not likely to be anyone else staying here while I am here.

It seems that there is a major refurbishment programme going on. There is what looks like a two storey extension which seem to be designed as futher en-suite rooms to a reasonably high spec. These appear to be in addition to the four rooms in the main house. There are also builidings in the grounds which I believe are also en-suite rooms. The main building has also a couple of veranda / conservatories and there are good sized gardens all around.

I think that I will be able to relax here. I expect a fair amount of building work and last night a craftsman from Lusaka stayed overnight with his wife in one of the spare rooms. My main concern at the moment is that there is doubt whether the hotplates on the cooker are hot enough to cook properly. I would rather not have to use a brazier, but I will manage somehow!!

I was hoping that I would be able to secure this place for the volunteers. At the moment I have agreed to rent it for two months in the hope that when I leave there will be a chance to extend the tenure for those following me.

I keep getting accosted by old friends – some I recognise, others I don't, and some I have difficulty in recalling at all even when they tell me who they are!! I am sure that I have had meaningful interactions with all of them, but this is true of many. A few people who will always find me and will always tell me they are struggling, get their small annual bonus!!

On Wednesday I met Mrs Sianga and Killian again. I caught up in a slightly more structured way. It is amazing what PIZZ School is achieving – despite paying a very small fraction of the current government teachers salaries, their exam success rate in the final year is far superior and compares very well with the top private schools. Not surprisingly however retaining teachers is very difficult.

I was delighted to be called over by Irene yesterday. She has not moved despite the guy at MTN (next door) apparently having no knowledge of where she was working. As usual I received a big hug and was shown off to her friends as her best friend. I will seek out some chitenge material for another shirt.

Now that I am settled I have plenty of work to get on with. I also hope that I will also make full use of the opportunity to enjoy the environment and relax.

Chris

A Nice Place

Wednesday 23^rd April

It is a privilege to be able to live with the priests and seminarian here at the parish house. Few people manage to meet priests and religious other than in a formal manner. Here I get to know them as ordinary people with a special calling in their lives. Last night I watched the last half of Chelsea versus Althletico Madrid with Fr. Clement who is a Chelsea supporter. Over meals we talk about a variety of topics in a very open way. At supper Harrison (the seminarian) told us that a man he had been visiting in the hospital had just died. This man had mental problems and was termed 'mad' by many. A couple of days ago Harrison found him in the church grounds collapsed on the floor. He complained about his legs which were swollen. He was taken to Monze Hospital and Harrison visited, taking him bottles of coke and other items he requested. It appeared that the man talked to Harrison but few others. On Monday he said he felt much better, yet he died yesterday.

I went again along the railway line on Monday and after a couple of failures found a nice place with trees and some scrub. I sat for a while watching and reading. It did me good to be back in the countryside. On the way I passed grass and meadows teaming with numerous varieties of beautiful butterflies. I will return and explore some more.

On Tuesday Raymond took me to see the owner of a house that might be suitable to rent. Unfortunately someone else is interested. The house has a separate building with a further two self - contained units, which used to be servants quarters. Raymond told me that his was where the white people used to live in colonial times. It is now home to the more affluent in Monze. The other party is interested in renting both buildings. It looks therefore that I will lose it. This is a shame because it seemed ideal for me and the following volunteers to have as a wonderful retreat, where we could relax – it would also be somewhere my friends could come to see me. I hope to confirm the position today and deside where I will spend the remainder of my stay in Monze.

Chris

Happy Easter

Easter Sunday 20^th April

I will start by wishing everyone a Happy Easter.

Yesterday morning I met Diven and Teddy. They had looked at a couple of plots which might be suitable for building a small shop and adjoining house. Diven has for a long time dreamed of having his own property. Difficulties where he currently stays have crystallised the idea and he is keen to move on. He has a small amount to invest – currently in the form of sugar! I will make my own contribution. I am finding that money is regularly held in other forms here in Zambia. Jennipher has her assets in the form of animals – chickens, goats and pigs.- even a turkey.

Mr Meheritona spotted me and came over to talk about using an HHI flat during my stay, so I agreed to have a look. It would seem to satisfy my needs being self-contained. My only reservations are that there is some use of the sitting room by the HHI staff – and it isn't absolutely clear how much. It is also situated at the back of some offices which need to be passed by me and any guests coming in and out.

Raymond has also told me he has found a 4 bedroomed house for me!! It is of course far bigger than I need, but there are a number of volunteers – possibly seven at the end of July coming to Monze from the UK. It might prove ideal, if it is available to the end of August. I will look at it on Tuesday and make my decision.

I caught up on my mail and dealt with some of it.

When I was last here during Holy Week I was disappointed when I realised that I had no candle to light during the service. In the UK candles are provided at the churches, so it didn't occur to me to bring my own. This year I was determined that I wouldn't be candleless! I walked to 'My Prayer Shop' – quite appropriate in the cicumstances!! In fact My Prayer Shop is what we would generally call and ironmongers and general store. The guy asked me how many candles I wanted (I was tempted to ask for “four candles or was it fork handles!” remembering the Two Ronnies sketch, but resisted!). He showed me a packet with 5 candles so I decided to have two packets i.e. 10 candles. He gave me that packet and another with 6 candles and repeated 5 plus 6 equals 10 with a smile. I assume it is in the tradition of giving a bonus. This often happens in the market they will add an onion or tomato to your bag as a free gift.

I decided to wander across to the railway station and stroll along the lanes where there is a bit of countryside. I emerged by the Golf Course which is in the Fairview area where the prospective house is situated. It was good to enjoy the fresh air. The weather has been very pleasant since I arrived with quite a lot of cloud cover – but still more sun than we are used to in the UK. Temperatures during the day are probably low to mid twenties.

I spoke to Dilys on Skype, which is working well this year.

The Easter Vigil Mass started at a little after 20 hrs. The bishop is recurperating from a fractured hip and was unable to attend, so Fr. Kenan presided. During Holy Week there had been no instruments used during the services. It is lovely to hear the powerful voices singing effortlessly in harmony, but with the ringing of the bell at the Gloria, during the vigil mass, the Lenten tone was transformed into the joy of Easter and the instuments – especially the drums encouraged the congregation to stand up and dance to the vibrant rhythmns.

Teddy asked me to join him for the service which was a pleasure. He also helped me by distributing my spare candles to those who had none.

During the service there were a large number of baptisms and three new parishioners were confirmed.

It wasn't quite midnight when I carried my lighted candle the very short journey back across the grounds to the parish house.

On Sunday morning it was time to join with the congregation at Our Lady of the Wayside to again celebrate Easter.On the way I passed some ladies carrying bundles of grass, which i assume will be used to re-thatch their houses. The grass is high - about 8ft (2 1/2 metres) high and very plentiful at the moment.

For the past week or more, I had managed to slip into services without any fuss and hoped I had escaped the need to show myself. I should have known better! At the end of the vigil mass at the Cathedral Fr. Kenan announced that I was in the congregation and I had to stand up in in acknowledgement. At Our Lady of the Wayside I was at least warned that I would be asked to say a few words at the end of mass. It was an opportunity to formally convey greetings from St. Gregory's and St. Thomas More. I also particularly thanked the children for their Easter card on which they had written their names.

Mass was earlier than usual and I therefore had a little time to spare. I wanted to check out the possibility of finding a quiet place in the bush where I could relax for a while. I headed further up the Livingstone Road past Comfort Lodge. I recall when Dilys and Amy were with me in 2011. We had been to mass and Dilys was thirsty. She was very surprised when I took them to Comfort Lodge for a drink. Her experience to this point had convinced her that anything approaching luxury was absent from Monze. They enjoyed a little of the comfort promised!

I crossed the road having decided that this gave the best opportunity to reach some pleasant bush in the shortest time. I made my way to the railway and decided to walk along the line. The Countryside opens out to the East of the railway line but it wasn't clear that I would get far along the small paths. I decided not to explore but perhaps to return.another day. Along the tracks I met a couple of young men sitting on the rails. They asked me what I was doing I explained that I was enjoying the scenery. We stopped and talked for a while. They were unhappy that like so many they were struggling to find employment. They eventually explained that they were student teachers who had to try to raise money in the holidays to fund their studies. I told them that it wasn't only in Zambia that talents are being wasted – two of my children are looking for permanent work in the UK at the moment. I said goodbye to Geshan and Joseph and went on my way, not before establishing that there was indeed a nice quiet place that I could reach along some paths a little further to the south.

In the afternoon I started yet another crime thriller, deciding to sit myself outside in the late afternoon sunshine.

Over supper Fr. Kenan announced that we had some serious work to do. We would be heading for the pool table with a couple of new challengers. In the event, the table at Mayfair hadn't been replaced, but nearby there was a bar where a table was present and no other customers! Fr. Kenan and myself commenced battle and fortune was with me because I managed to keep the cue throughout the evening defending my position against all comers! My luck is unlikely to be as good when we have a return contest!!

May the Risen Lord fill you with joy especially during this Easter season.

Chris

The Final Days of Holy Week

Saturday 19^th April – Holy Saturday

A few things are important for me here in Zambia. At the moment I am missing my endless cups of tea. Since arriving I have only had tea in the morning. I usually manage at least a couple of cups at breakfast from a single tea bag. On Wednesday evening after my meal I was going to ask for a Mosi but after further consideration I asked if it would be too much trouble for Citride to make me a pot of tea! Sometimes there is nothing more wonderful than a pot of tea – and this was one of those occasions!! The local Zambians were a little amused and commented on the Englishman's love of tea. One of them commented on the Indian's similar passion. He had studied in Mumbai and also travelled quite extensively throughout Europe!

I made a brief visit to Kaliyangile on Thursday morning before setting of to Lusaka. Unusually there were a couple of minibuses on the main road and I thought they might move earlier than the taxis – but it appeared they were heading in a different direction. From Chisamba there appears to be only one tarred road, which meets the Great North Road after about 23 km. I think the others all become dirt roads at the edge of the small town. I assume the minibuses were using one of these.

I was directed to an empty taxi and prepared for a long wait. However a lady with a child appeared and we moved off, picking up others just up the road. I will never understand the mechanisms here in Zambia. I am constantly being surprised, but at least there is never an opportunity for boredom!!

I arrived in Lusaka soon after 12 hrs. Jennipher's appointment was scheduled for 10.30 so I gave her a ring to arrange to meet. She was waiting in a queue to have her fingerprints taken and the equipment had broken down. I am not happy with the recent moves to collect and store fingerprints. I always associate this activity with criminal behaviour. I am sure that in the past, innocent parties who gave fingerprints would have the data destroyed one it was no longer required for the case. It seems that more and more our personal information is being captured so that everyy aspect of our lives can be be tracked.

I eventually met with Jennipher at about 15 hrs She had with her a relative who, with his wife, had brought a sick baby to UTH – the large government hospital in Lusaka. Unfortunately the baby died and the parents were struggling to return with the baby for burial. Jennipher was going to stay in Lusaka overnight and come back with them on Friday.

Jennipher escorted me to a bus which was about to leave. At 16 hrs we set off!! Slowly!! There seemed to be something on the driver's mind and we stopped several times. I am sure that the conductor was left on more than one occasion and caught up with us somehow, fiurther down the road. We made very slow progress and when eventually we reached Kafue the driver found his scerwdriver and ran off. After about 30 mins we had a new light bulb installed and were therefore less likely to pick up fines at the many police checkpoints.

We arrived in Monze at about 20.20 – about 9 hrs after I left Chisamba.

The mass for Holy Thursday was well underaway and the house was completely locked up. Eventually Fr. Clement arrived from another service and let me in. The service had only reached the offertory so I decided to sneak into the back of the church and stay for the remainder of the mass.

We had entered the most sacred days of the church's year. Over the next three days we would recall the last days of Jesus on earth. Holy Thursday commemorates the Last Supper when Jesus celebrated the passover with his disciples and institued the main Christian celebration – the Eucharist. I was glad to be present, if only for the final part.

Good Friday is a good day to reflect. I went to Our Lady of the Wayside church in the morning. The young people acted the betrayal and trial of Jesus outside the front of the church and then we all followed them as Jesus carried his cross we walked around the outside perimeter of the church grounds along the minor roads stopping on the way to recall incidents on the route when Jesus carried his cross to Calvary. (Our church has formalised thes events as “The Stations of the Cross”) One thing they do well here is to organise PA systems. All parishes seem to have no difficulty setting up microphones, amplifiers and speakers to run from car batteries while parading through the streets. Similarly PA systems for outside events are no problem. I remember that in Burma it was the same.

The procession returned to the church grounds for the final stages of the story where Jesus was crucified. Throughout the young people told the story in actions and words in a very dignified way. They had obviously spent a lot of time preparing for the day and it made for a very moving and thought provoking service.

I threw a few books in my cases before I left home in England. One is a book given to me written by Joan Bakewell called “Belief” which is a selection of interviews she did for the radio in the UK. She clearly has her own position and many of her guests are people who have discarded their Christian upbringing. It makes interesting reading but I feel a sadness because it seems that most of her guests have never met God in an intimate way through the person of Jesus. Unfortunately our Christian churches are often guilty of concentrating on ritual and rules rather than experiencing and living the Gospel. The Catholic church – of which I am a part – has been more guilty than most of this approach.

Nevertheless I find the interviews interesting. Some are given by people that have developed a deep and mature spirituality and we can always learn from those who ponder the mysterys of the universe and the possibilities of something beyond.

I also have a book which records a lecture given by Jean Vanier an inspirational man who has devoted much of his life to living with people who have mental disabilities and started the L'Arche communities. He is a man I would love to meet. He believes that the poor and neglected are the best to teach us about God. My experience confirms that.

Another book I looked at during my reflection yeasterday is a book called “Wayfaring” by Margaret Silf. It is based on the spirituality of Saint Ignatius – Pope Francis, as a Jesuit, will have followed this spirtual journey. I would like to share a few words from the introduction which make a lot of sense to me.:

The future is not some place we are going to but one we are creating

The paths to it are not found but made

and the making of those pathways

changes both the maker and the destination.

I think that I would add “and also those we meet upon the way”.

Certainly something worth reflecting upon.

In the afternoon I attended the Good Friday service again at Our Lady of the Wayside. On the way I met Obert's mother she was heading to the hospital but this time it is new life she is preparing for. Her daughter is about to give birth. Let us pray that all goes well for mother and child. It is a privilege to worship with the congregation at Our Lady of the Wayside church and feel a part of their community.

Today is one of anticipation. I like to take life easy, to reflect further and to spend time with my God of nature, I will probably go for a short walk this afternoon and maybe find a place to sit quietly. Zambia is very beautiful at the moment. Some new grass shoots srung up after the recent rain and most of the countryside is green. There is a wonderful array of wild flowers being enjoyed by the beautiful butterflies and other insects.

With love and prayers

Chris

From Monze to Chisamba

Wednesday 16^th April

Jennipher arrived just before lunch on Monday. I told her to meet me after lunch and we would go through the visa application together. We amended one or two items slightly and when eventually we were both satisfied I hit the button to confirm the details. I had done my best to explain some of the fields where I was unable to put a sensible answer through lack of space. After this there is no turning back! The next stage was to book an appointment. We decided to choose Thursday morning to give Jennipher time to get the last letter sorted. There was a choice of where to take the papers – but only one centre in Zambia! This is now a FEDEX location in Longacres, Lusaka – no longer the British High Commission. I was informed that if I chose this location there would be an additional fee, but I wasn't told how much. Suspecting that it would still be cheaper than a trip to South Africa I continued! The next step was to pay. Since I had chosen to use Lusaka for the appointment it was no longer possible to pay in person. I had to pay on line by credit or debit card, which isn't something everyone in Zambia has - fortunately I can manage! The cost was a bit over 1,000 RAN which I discovered was South African Rand and in fact about what I expected to pay anyway. Having no printer the final stage would need to wait.

I am used to completing forms and working with computers but I must admit the whole process was very stressful. Later when I found confirmation letters sent by e-mail and followed the links I was told unless I registered on another site the interview couldn't take place. I could easily have overlooked the link and can't see why this is necessary – there was no suggestion anywhere else that this was a required step. Even having registered on this site, which I assumed was connected with FeDex, I was concerned that it was Jennipher's application but my registration. It is almost as if there is a deliberate attempt to intimidate.

Jennipher told me she had an appointmen to see the Coordinator of the District Aids Task Force who was going to write a letter, but wanted to see me first. On the way I was greeted by my friend who travels Monze with his set of weighing scales balanced on his knees as he wheels his chair along. I asked him to remind me of his name – Muluti – and wrote it down. Somtimes this is the only way I can learn some of the African names. I weighed myself and gave him an appropriate contribution (I am afraid I am never prepared to give him his normal asking price! To be honest I don't even know what it is!!). It was good to see him again, I was beginning to worry when I hadn't come across him depite being in Monze for some days.

By the time we arrived at the District Offices Sichali was deep in a meeting with Teddy and others. It was probably a little after 3 pm. I first met the Coordinator ,Sichali, soon after she arrived in her post about three years ago. I seem to recall a rather heated exchange – mainly from Jennipher - because it was claimed that Jennipher lived just outside the Monze District boundary. Of course Jennipher knew the history and boundary demarcation. Soon after this meeting, Sichali visited Jennipher's home and some of her support groups and I joined one of the gatherings. She has been very supportive of Jennipher and her work since that time and is a good advocate for her.

While we waited Jennipher took me to meet the new District Commissioner to get his approval. I agreed that the DATF coorodinator was the best person to vouch for Jennipher, since she knew her well. We received the blessing of the DC.

At a little after 17hrs Sichali was free and after some discussion she produced a positive letter.

My plans for an early start for Chisamba on Tuesday had to be abandoned since I had yet to get papers printed and I rely on the internet cafe - which by 18 hrs would be shut.

Somewhat worn out I returned to the priest's house and chilled a little before supper. It was after 23 hrs when I had sorted all I needed to do for the visa and the trip to Chisamba. I was glad that I wasn't getting up at 5!

Jennipher had agreed to get to Monze at 8 am to pick up the letter from Sichali. It would be printed and ready by then. I headed to the internet cafe and before 9 am had everything else printed. I rang Jennipher to meet up and she told me that she was on her way!! I knew that Sichali had to leave for a meeting at 8.30 and rushed around to find the offices locked. Fortunately she was just leaving and told me where to find the letter.

• When Jennipher arrived she had the final letter with her and she was coming with me to Lusaka! The bus was waiting!!
• Unfortunately I wasn't ready.
• We missed her bus and I took the opportunity to get one more letter printed.
• I returned to the bus stop where another bus driver claimed to be about to leave.
• Where was Jennipher? For some reason she had wandered up the high street.
• OK I bought tickets for both of us and asked the driver to pick her up.
• On entering the bus I saw plenty of empty seats.
• Another call to Jennipher told her to come to the bus stop.
• The bus then sets off!!
• They spot Jennipher and she jumps aboard – all is well.

Life here often resembles a Broadway Farce!

Our Journey to Lusaka was without incident apart from our driver deciding that a section of the road being repaired was fine and provided an opportunity to overtake all the vehicles following the diversion on the rough side road. Not unexpected ly eventually the other end of the diversion was reached with a road block and workmen directing the traffic. Our driver became very apologetic as he made his way past the barriers!

We ate at Lumumba bus station after which Jennipher and I went our separate ways. With little delay at Lusaka or getting a taxi at Chisamba crossroads I arrived at the Chisamba Guest House by about 5.20 pm. (6hrs or so after setting off from Monze.)

Approaching the Guest House a guy greeted me and assured me that I knew him. Maybe I met him one year but I am not sure – he claimed I was with some young ladies, which I sttrenuously deny!! There was a group of volunteers (including young ladies) who came some years back and I suspect that he thought I was with them – I think I also met him (I was alone I hasten to add!) a few years back. Cetride gave me a warm welcome and showed me to my room.

Persis joined me for supper and we talked about the project - Kaliyangile.

Today I spent meeting the Kaliyangile committee, all of whom I know from my previous visits. We are experiencing some issues with keeping staff on the project. The reasons are complex but the large rise in government wages is one issue. We cannot afford to compete with the new government rates and unless we can provide other motivation, it will continue to cause problems.

There are plenty of livestock around the site and a good maize harvest is predicted.

This year the Zamtel network doesn't appear to exist. I am therefore cut off! However I have the internet and if necessary can use Skype to make calls. Receiving them isn't so easy.

I was offered what is evidently a delicacy for supper – cow's feet! I said that I would try them expecting some recognisable meat to be present. They turned out to be skin, fat and marrow. I expect they are an acquired taste! I managed to eat most of what wasn't bone, but will probably opt forchicken next time!

There are of course other delicacies here. The unique vegetables and unusual fruit I usually find very pleasant – other foods exercise the mind a little because of texture or tradition. I don't expect any inswa this visit since these flying ants appear at the onset of the rains. However at the priest's house last week there were some interesting bite sized objects that had a familiar look to them. I didn't remember the Zambian name but a rough translation is caterpillar! Apparently they are very nutritious. I ate a few (they are quite large!) and they were OK – in fact easier to swallow than cow's feet!! (unfortunately I had to delete the picture – maybe the opportuniyty will re-occur!)

Please note that if any of those reading this are planning to come out for their first visit, such delicacies are not compulsory!!

Take care,

Chris

The Beginning of Holy Week

 Freshly cut palms

Monday 14^th April

It is already a week since I set off from home in Cheltenham.

This morning I realised the value of my trips to Africa. I spent a couple of hours passing the time of day with two friends. The first Obert I met some years ago when walking down the main road. He tells me that he is now fulfilling his dream which was to drive a car. He passed his test at the second attempt on Thursday and is now on his way to get his provisional licence. This is a guy from a poor background who was told he would never be able to ride a bike because he only has one leg.

We talked about the weather in England, the mysterious disappearance of the Malaysian plane and the actions of Oscar Pistorious, among other things. I enjoy our discussions and we get to know each other better each time we meet. It is through such encounters that trust develops and a mutual friendship which gives life to both of us. I stressed how important I felt that seat belts were when driving – it is sadly the case that very many lives are lost here in Zambia because the wearing of seat belts is not the norm.

My second discussion was with Fr. Clement who happened to be in the sitting room. The children from Our Lady of the Wayside church sent an Easter card to the children at St. Gregory's Church in Cheltenham signed by all the children who attend mass and call themselves the Holy Childhood. Dilys was running the children's liturgy on Sunday in Cheltenham and the children there signed a card to be sent to Our Lady of the Wayside church. I thanked Fr. Clement and asked him to pass on thanks and greetings to the children. Over recent years the children at each parish have been encouraged to learn about each other, to write letters and send photos. We think that talking to each other over Skype might also be good. I am very keen to foster a close relationship between the people of the two communities.

St. Gregory's church with St. Thomas More in Cheltenham has now adopted four projects instead of officially just having one – Our Lady of the Wayside. I see this as a positive mood because the more we engage with different parts of the world and the more we learn about issues worldwide the richer our community becomes. I am not concerned about reduced income. Money is not my focus. In fact I suspect that both interest and funding for Our Lady of the Wayside will grow because of formally adopting additional projects. We discussed various ideas that are being considered at the new parish in Monze, building a parish house, constructing a piggery and proving a water supply for a bit of land they have for growing crops. My gut feeling is that the agricultural projects are more likely to fire the imagination in Cheltenham than the building!

I have a vague idea of organising an African concert when I return to the UK. We have a number of people in our parish who originate from Africa and I am sure they and their contacts would be able to find the necessary talent. I would be very keen to ensure that entrance is free and would push for free refreshments too! It is important to me that we do not exclude anyone, but particularly the financially poorest. If we do, we are failing in the objective of making our world a fairer place! I also believe it is important to ask the question “what are you willing provide” and hope for generosity in whatever form it takes. When challenged and shown the needs very many respond with wonderful generosity – even on a financial level!!

So what happened over the weekend? I actually spent more time than I wanted trying to resolve an issue with the Hands Around the World database. Sometimes I wish I never started playing with this software!! Anyway I think I know what I am doing now.

I also tried to put together the documents for Jennipher's visa. Yesterday I started to complete the application online. Apparently there is a new website (in beta testing – which is always worrying!!) which makes things simpler! Well I am not so sure. I would appreciate some sort of guidelines for completing the form – I can find none. There are many obligatory fields and some are free text, but have a very limited sized field – even twitter gives more scope to describe an event. Despite this I have produced a reasonable draft and Jennipher is coming soon to review it with me.

Yesterday was Palm Sunday. Congregations from the two Catholic parishes in Monze and the Salvation Army met at a point about equidistant between the two Catholic churches, which are perhaps 3 km apart. Unfortunately other Christian churches, who have been present in the past, didn't join us. It would have been much better had all Christian churches joined together to proclaim their shared faith which recalls the final days in the life of Jesus.

It is a shame that the history of Jesus is unknown to many in the UK. Many consider it as myth and storytelling without any basis, yet there is plenty of evidence that the man Jesus existed, that he was known as a teacher and healer and that he claimed to be God. These are as much historical facts as the existence and exploits of Julius Caesar.

We gathered from 8hrs and the service began at about 8.50! After the palms (freshly cut) were blessed we processed together into the neighbourhood. First those people from the Salvation Army peeled off waving a farewell goodbye with their palms. Later the two Catholic congregations said goodbye and headed for their own churches. I was with the Our Lady of the Wayside branch. We moved into the church packed beyond capacity with some standing outside as well as inside. Here we celebrated the mass – our Eucharistic service. By 12.30 the morning's service was over.

Of course it was an opportunity to renew my acquaintance with many friends. Sr. Juunze, Mr Meheritona, Kennedy, Obert, Sr. Gabriela, Vincent and Bridget to mention just a few. It is lovely to receive such warm welcomes – including big hugs from the men as well as women!

I was having a frustrating time with the visa application and so headed for the little lake beyond PIZZ school. I checked on the fencing around the additional land that was acquired for the school some years back. Some people have build right up to the boundary and in places beyond it. It was therefore important to demarcate the land with a fence.

Walking around Monze is important. It allows me to interact with the local people. Young men shout out “muli butu” and are surprised when I respond “kabotu, muli buti” the children shout out “how are you” and are delighted when I respond “I'm fine, how are you” and give them a wave. The adults around smile and enjoy the comedy! I feel very much accepted here in Monze. Many have come to recognise me over the years and I feel truly welcome.

Walking gives me time to think and mull over the events unfolding. I think of discussions I have had and often feel the gentle presence of my God. At the start of the procession it seemed that numerous swallows and swifts were joining in the procession flying up and down the line – a bird of prey circled above – possibly a snake eagle. The marvels of nature usually lead me to God. We need to build machines to fly and how long did it take humankind to work out the mechanics? Yet some of these birds might be in the UK next month just using the power of their wings and favourable winds.

At the dam all seemed to be quiet – few people, except for a small group of young boys who, pied piper like, had followed me to the dam. They sat and watched me while hiding behind some bushes - they eventually decided to move on. They are not usually so timid. I then spotted a heron and a bird behaved like a cormorant drying its wings – it probably was a cormorant, the first I have noticed at this lake since coming to Zambia. A pied kingfisher flew by, a couple of African Jacanas jumped out of the tall grass and a bird of prey – probably a snake eagle - soared overhead. There are a lot of butterflies about at the moment and they mingled with the dragonflies near the water's edge. It was good to relax for a while and take in the wildlife around me.

Blessings to all this Holy Week.

Chris

Old Friends

Friday 11^th April

Time passes so quickly here in Zambia. It seems that I have just arrived yet already this is the start of my 3^rd full day in Monze. There are so many things that we take for granted in the UK. My phone came back to life after another visit to Zamtel (my third on Wednesday). I bought a USB modem and was assured that the MTN SIM would be working within 10 mins – this was on Wednesday afternoon. I returned to the shop on Thursday morning before I was able to use it!

There used to be a grocer's shop Pick-a-lot where the MTN shop now stands. I have known the shopkeeper over many years. Outside this shop was where Ireen used to sit and sew her garments. The new shopkeeper didn't seem to know where either of my friends were now based. I will need to track down Ireen or I won't get a new shirt this year!

I have bumped into a few friends over the past couple of days. Captain seems to be doing OK he is still moulding bricks as he did in 2003 when he was involved with the building of the hospital ICU. Obert's parents told me that Obert can now drive, no doubt he will demonstrate his skills before long – I hope his artificial leg is not too much of a handicap. Jennipher has been around a couple of times and we are working on the next visa application. Diven has been bringing me up to date with his current position and Raymond is still chasing houses for me to rent!

Yesterday it rained most of the day – unusually gentle rain from my experience . I hoped that this might be useful since there has been little rain of late. However I am told that it is too late and has the danger of destroying what crops there are. Dry weather is required to prepare the maize for harvesting and milling. I was told yesterday that, although there was a lot of hunger last year, this year will be worse.

Yesterday I slept until after 7 am. There was a lot of activity around the church and there were a number of guests – local priests – staying overnight. I had heard on Wednesday that practice for the “Chrism Mass” was taking place, but in my experience this service is conducted on Maundy Thursday. I was therefore surprised when I returned from town to find a procession of priests and a bishop entering the cathedral. It appeared that I was just in time, so I sneaked into the back of church. This is an annual service when priests from all over each diocese of the Catholic Church come to their cathedral. They renew their priestly vows and receive the oils blessed for use in the sacraments – for example oil for anointing those sick and dying. I don't think I have attended such a service before, but living here at the cathedral church it seemed inappropriate to miss the celebration. It was good to hear the singing and drumming and watch the dancing once again. Apart from the renewal of vows and blessing of oils, the service followed the same format as the usual Eucharistic service of the mass.

I said hallo to Father Maambo - a priest who used to be in charge of Our Lady of the Wayside church here in Monze and excused myself from lunch with the priests, because I had promised to talk to Jennipher. She found a table in the NAPSA building where we had chicken and chips! (I am not sure what NAPSA stands for either!!)

I visited Mrs Sianga at PIZZ school yesterday afternoon. Mr Sianga spotted me on the road and gave me a lift for the final part of the journey.

The children – now 203 at the school – are provided with a meal each day. This comprises some fortified rice-soy meal designed to be particularly nutritious that Mrs. Sianga obtains from Lusaka. A meal can be provided for a little over £1 a month per child, though additional costs – charcoal and transportation add a bit to the total cost. Hands Around the World has a fund to provide this food and will be having a short text campaign soon to boost it. Mrs. Sianga told me that the children are putting on weight as a result of this small meal each day.

We spoke about various topics including the proposed Holiday Club during August and discussed possible activities.

In the evening I was able to access the internet. The service is good and it should allow me to keep in regular contact.

Best wishes

Chris