Was glad to have a quiet morning in the library. I managed to do some reading and some journalling. I need to make sure I keep on top of the journal or I’ll end up forgetting to include important learning points. And it’ll be great to have a detailed record of what’s been going on in my mind as I encounter all of this new stuff. Some of the stuff I’m including in my journal makes it onto this blog – most of it does not. All of the candidates have to keep a journal. It is supposed to help us think about what effect our learning is having in helping to shape our ministry, so some of the stuff gets pretty personal. For instance, I’ll record how my theological understanding is being shaped by what I am doing, and my thoughts and feelings about things I have found either helpful or difficult. Sometimes I write about questions I have found myself asking, and how these relate to my faith and ministry. Sometimes it is about what new things I have had to do and what I learned as a result, or it might be about what I have realised I still need to learn or practice. So all in all I’m doing a lot of writing as well as lots of activities!!
After writing many words (!) it was time to go for my supervision session with Rev Musaba. This proved to be interesting. When I arrived he was speaking with a woman who had come to make final arrangements with him for a special service. Zambia will be having elections soon and the service will focus on praying for free and fair elections and for peace during the campaigning and election period. Great idea - and I was even more impressed when I heard that other Christian denominations here have agreed to take part. This ecumenical service will make a strong statement. I must admit I smiled broadly when I heard that local civic leaders and political parties were also participating. I somehow can’t imagine UK political leaders coming together publicly in a Christian service to pray about the elections!! Now…maybe there is something to learn here…mmmm.
Anyway, the preparations all seemed to be about finalised when Rev Musaba smiled at me and said he felt this was a service I should preach at. It took me a minute to realise what he was saying. Then I gulped. This service will be happening in less than 24 hours. They expect a large turnout – there will be numerous local ministers attending – they have already said there is likely to be some media interest – and he wants me to preach!!
Ooohhh…Time to pray!!! And attend the two hour long evening service before I can go back and do any preparation. Looks like a long night ahead.
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