Day 9

Sunday 12th July

We started off today with our usual thought for the day which was led by Fiona. She was sharing about Daniel in the Lions' Den- which was quite timely given one of the day's activities!

After breakfast we set out to visit a near-by Christian Orthodox Church. This was very unlike anything at home. When we got off the bus we could hear very loud singing over a tannoy from the church. The three girls had to wear scarves over their heads before going in. We moved towards the gate. On the right hand side of the road was a blind beggar, and on the left there was a very lavish tomb for former Prime Minister, Menes Zenawi, with two armed guards. Our guide Zee questioned the purpose of the guards and suggested that government money could be put to much better use. 

Christian Orthodox Church

As we continued to the front of the beautiful building it became apparent that there was a wedding ceremony in progress. We were lucky enough to see the bride and groom leave the church- preceded by two large drums (although it was suggested that these could've been for our benefit given the date!!) The bridal party was dressed beautifully, and the bride and groom were both wearing burgundy with crowns on their heads. 

Bridal party

We then walked around the church looking at it's fine architecture. We noticed that there were a few people kneeling at the base of some of the outside walls praying. They were outside because they didn't think they were 'good enough' to go in. 

Christian Orthodox Church

After leaving the church we visited Addis Ababa's Lion Zoo. Upon arrival we saw a sign with prices- 'Local Adult - 2 Birr, Foreign Adult - 20 Birr'. 

Price sign at Lion Zoo

We were also 'welcomed' by two armed guards asking were we planning on taking photographs or videos with a camera. We realised they were asking because there was a charge to do so. Luckily mobile phone cameras were free so we declined to pay the add-on. When we went in to the zoo we were struck by a number of things- how small the zoo itself was (we viewed the whole thing in 10-15 minutes); how many local people came, especially on a Sunday morning; and the terrible conditions for the animals. It was very difficult to see how many lions were in such a small cage, and this was repeated a number of times for other lions, monkeys, birds and deer. Needless to say- we all regretted our trip to the Lion Zoo.

After leaving the zoo we went to the 11.15am service at Addis Ababa's International Evangelical Church. The congregation had people from many different nations in attendance. It was great to be reminded that no matter where we go and what language we speak we can all worship the same God- He is truly global. This was made even more real when during the songs the worship leader would occasionally start singing choruses of well known songs in Amharic- and everyone belted it out!! It was a very special experience.

International Evangelical Church

After church we returned to the guest house for an Ethiopian lunch- followed by the now familiar coffee ceremony. We had a lovely relaxing afternoon, which included sleep for many of the team. 

Getting set up for Coffee Ceremony

After dinner we gathered together for our reflection and entertainment. Entertainment was another round of Charades led by Rachel and Harry. They reverted to the classic format of two big teams, which was well received by one of the older members of the party. It was a good end to a good day- everyone should be suitably refreshed and rested for more hard work on Monday morning. 

Post by Ashley Parks