We are having a wonderful adventure here. Our host families and the church here (Grace Chapel) have all been so gracious and hospitable toward us. They have opened not only their homes but their hearts to us. We are hearing much about the difficult times during apartheid (which ended during the 90’s), which many of these families have experienced personally.

In addition, we are learning about the ongoing difficulties here in this young democracy, related to educational inequalities and other problems. Economic issues continue to separate people and keep some groups of people down. We have been impressed by the indomitable spirit and the good humor of people here who have suffered much, specifically those identified as the “coloured” and black people. Their faith in God and their willingness to travel the very difficult path of forgiveness has brought this country through a difficult time without a bloodbath, and that in itself seems to be a miracle. My spirit will forever be affected by my experiences with the people here.

Julie Perry

The trip has been truly amazing so far.  I have enjoyed each experience that we have had.  We have seen some of the most beautiful natural sights in the world such as Cape Point where we spent the entire day today. I have loved the people of South Africa.  We are staying in host homes,  thus we have the fullest opportunity to be immersed in the life of the people here.  I can truly say that my favorite part of who the people are is their authencity.  The South Africans that I have been able to visit are inviting, they are giving and open, they are not pressured to be anything other than who they are.  Again, they are genuine and generous with their lives, their time and their homeland.  They are proud of the land here. 

My favorite and most meaningful experience so far has been sharing the Eucharist with the Archbishop.  The environment that we took communion in was intimate and sacred.  People from all over the world were present at the service (about 60).  Some were from Germany, Australia, U.S., South Africa, Sweden and England.  I felt a familiarity with the communion service and very connected to a common life with people from around the globe!  Archbishop Tutu was open and personal, formal yet down to earth.  He was humorous in his service yet was respectful of the service and others.  After it all, he invited us to breakfast!  He was superb!

Pamela Hendricks

South Africa is a very beautiful place full of beautiful people.  Up to this point, one of my favorite things has been that we have stayed with local families, which has given us a great opportunity to get to know the people and see first-hand how they live.  I have been surprised to see how similar South Africa is to the United States in many ways, even in the way Christmas is celebrated.  We have already done quite a bit, but I am looking quite forward to visiting the poorer townships where many of the tribal populations live. This may even end up being the highlight of my trip.  They make up the majority of the people living in South Africa, although we have not had much of an opportunity to meet them, and so I am eagerly anticipating this part of the trip.

Bryan J. Maupin

My experience here in Cape Town is a rich mix of what seems
like Bay area, California weather matched with an overwhelming energy in
the air that comes from only a breath of knowledge of this country’s
recent past experiences of apartheid. Meeting the Arcbishop Tutu this
morning was nerve racking until the service began and his light jokes
and surprising humor set the atmosphere comfortable. I can’t believe he
invited our group to breakfast at a local coffee shop around the corner
from St. George’s Cathedral, Amazing! There is something so rich in the
air here in South Africa, I wonder if that coffee shop is hiring!

Joseph Austin

Our trip so far has truly been an eye-opening experience.  It has been
wonderful staying in the home of a South African family—a
‘coloured’ family that lived through the struggles and oppression of
apartheid.  Hearing their stories and the stories of their
housekeeper, a young woman who has fled from the turmoil in her home
country of Zimbabwe, has truly demonstrated to me the diversity of
obstacles faced by African citizens.  It is encouraging to hear of
fellow human beings who have encountered incredible difficulties and
emerged victorious.  I look forward to hearing and learning more.

Logan Carpenter

This morning we awoke early to participate in a Eucharist service led
by Archbishop Desmond Tutu.  It was well worth a short night’s sleep.
Tutu exemplfied several characteristics to which ministers should
aspire.  He fought for justice for his people, beginning the
theological attack on apartheid with his sermons in the very cathedral
we visited this morning.  His quest for justice earned him recognition
as an international leader.  He received the Nobel Peace Prize.  He
shepherded a country through the healing process of the Truth and
Reconciliation Commission.

Then this morning, a short man greeted a crowd of fewer than 100.  He
knew every person in attendance and recognized their current life
positions—whether they are moving, getting married, or recently
received a doctorate degree.  He greeted our team and invited our
professor to take part in the morning’s service.  When he misspoke, he
humbly admitted his mistake.  He patiently guided and instructed us
Baptists through an Anglican Eucharist service.  His demeanor was one
of warmth, humor, and wit.  He purchased breakfast for most of us who
attended the morning service.  Then he returned to the cathedral to
work, all the while being followed by a camera crew and local fans.
Tutu has been a charismatic leader who fights for justice, cares for a
nation, cares for individuals, and welcomes all with warm
understanding.  He is an excellent example for our team of ministers.

Angie Frame

This trip is helping me grow spiritually – already there have been highs and lows. Today we celebrated the Eucharist with Desmond Tutu, a joy-filled experience. Then we visited the District Six museum which is dedicated to the forced relocation of non-whites in Cape Town. What could have been depressing and disheartening (man’s inhumanity) was instead full of hope.  Our docent was a former resident of District Six who had forgiven those who relocated them—because they are human!  Truly a holy day.

Stephanie Downey