Nunga Church

Today was once again a rather busy day! I was invited to go out with the same bunch as yesterday to a church that is the home of one of the 2nd year nursing students, Christina. It was about a half hour to 45 minute drive from the hospital. Mike was asked to preach (which I was really proud of myself, because I understood almost the entire sermon in Pidgin, of course it is a bit easier to understand an American speaking Pidgin).

The people were so generous and kind. We had to wait outside so they would be ready for us, and they threw flowers on us as we walked in. They all sat on the ground, but brought out chairs for us. The church was maybe the size of my apartment living room and dining room combined, but there were over 50 people there. You can see how they lay out fresh flowers and food, that is common here. Not only is Christina from this church, it happens her father is the pastor, Pastor Marcus. So we were then invited to dinner after church. They showed me around their cooking house, then we all went into their house. Large platters were laid out, Graham, Elaine, and I were given one. It's pictured below--so we had chicken, banana, kaukau (staple food here--kind of like a sweet potato), green beans, corn, and greens. It was truly tasty! For the record, we didn't come close to finishing the platter, but it wasn't expected. Also, PNG might be the perfect dietary place for me, they don't use spices (or it's not spicy food). They actually hand you salt to pour on the side, and dip things in it.

I practiced my Pidgin with this sweet mother next to me (it's polite here to address most anyone by either brother, sister, mother, or father). She got a kick out of trying to teach me different words.