Our day began with a delay leaving town to visit the Chazia church. Our way was blocked by crowds, soldiers and cars as we waited for the President's wife to pass by. After the 35 minute delay, we were on our way!

We thought that the paved road's potholes and large "craters" would be the most challenging part of the drive, but then we turned onto the rockiest, most deeply rutted, dusty and long, hard-packed road most of us had ever experienced. If the vehicles had had any suspension, they no longer would! Our two vehicles and all the passengers were "rocking and rolling" over the almost five hour journey, but sharing personal stories, great humor and much laughter made it bearable.

We finally arrived two hours late only to be greeted by over 125 church folk who had waited for us. They were all singing, clapping, and smiling with great joy at our coming.

We exchanged greetings and were warmly welcomed by the head elder and the chief. Then Elizabeth, a Traditional Birth Attendant trained by Sebber, welcomed us, too, saying, "We heard of your coming. We are really grateful for you finally arriving. Please continue to come and continue to encourage us."

We enjoyed and were inspired by more singing and even joined in the dancing. They helped us wash our hands the "African" way, and they served us a delicious meal of chicken and nsema.

As we were leaving our brothers and sisters in Chazia, we recalled that during our long, arduous travel there, we had wondered if perhaps future groups should not attempt this difficult trip. But in the face of the hospitality of the Chazia people and their joy in seeing us, we all agreed that future groups should not miss this experience. As someone said so aptly, "How can they NOT go?"

II Thessalonians 2:16-17 - "May our Lord Jesus Christ Himself and God our Father, who loved us and by His grace gave us eternal encouragement and good hope, encourage your hearts and strengthen you in every good deed and word."

Ann Schulze for the Team

To view videos of the team's first several days, click here: Mozambique Video

Day 5: The Path Less Traveled