6/23/2006

New Life

Yesterday I attended an African birth naming ceremony. This is where the parents officially confer the name of their child in front of the town elders and all of their relatives. It looked like the entire town showed up from the number of people present at the ceremony. It was very lively with lots of food and music playing in the background as everyone mingled and had a great time. When the music stopped that was the sign that the town elders had arrived. Everyone gathered around the new born child and the parents as the elders prayed over the child. They prayed for God to guide this child through life. That he may be a good man and stay away from crime and any other form of evil. After the prayers were completed and the name was announced everyone shouted and yelled and the music came back on and people started eating once more. A great way to initiate a person into the human race if you ask me. This event lasted the entire day from sunrise until well past sunset. I'm humbled that I was allowed to participate in the ceremony and experience a unique part of life here in Africa. As I went to bed last night I said my own prayer's as usual. Everyone's I pray the novena to St. Padre Pio. I ask him to guide me and watch over me just like the town elders asked for God to guide the new born child. Young and old alike we could all benefit from God's guidance. The power was out last night so I thought I would have to sleep without the ceiling fan in my hot little room. But just as I finished praying my novena I heard the sound of the ceiling fan start to move. I think somebody is looking out for me! Ciao

3 Comments:

Blogger Jerry Zurek said...

Phil,

I really ejoy reading your blog. You set a high standard for us going to Brazil and I'm not sure we'll match how well written yours is! We leave in two days.
http://www.cabrini.edu/communications/brazil/index.html

6:11 AM

 
Blogger Jeff said...

Great posts, Phil. It sounds like a great experience so far. Keep up the good observations!

1:47 PM

 
Blogger wwjdfkb said...

I liked the "welcoming in to the human race." i like that.

5:22 AM

 

Post a Comment

<< Home