The Journey Begins

Well the many adventures of my journey started long before I arrived here in South Africa. The 11 of us left for South Africa last Wednesday, August 25, and we didn’t arrive until Friday the 27th. We grew accustomed to airports, layovers, and cramped leg space on long flights. On our way to Johannesburg, we had a 9 hour layover in Frankfurt, Germany. This gave us an opportunity to get out and stretch our legs. So we jumped on a train and went into this city, searching for an authentic German Pub or somewhere to have a bite. And, of course, we ended up at an Irish Pub. No worries though, the food was still good and we still got to check out the city. When we finally arrived in Durban we were very anxious to see if all of our luggage did as well. And by the grace of God, it all showed up! Brian and Kristen, our Country Coordinators, were at the airport to greet us. Our week of orientation had officially begun.


We have been staying in a Backpacker’s residence in Pietermaritzburg, walking distance from the Lutheran Theological Institute. It is a very comfortable, cozy place. The weather has been amazing, with temperatures reaching into the 90s by day and dipping into the 50s at night. We have taken advantage of the weather and spent a lot of time outside, even at the LTI during breaks or while listening to others. We have spent some portions of each day, if not our entire day, at the Lutheran Theological Institute where we have met and spoke with a Bishop and Dean of the ELCSA as well as others representing the ELCA and ELCSA. It has been an informative week, with many thought provoking questions and statements.

When we are not fully engrossed in conversation and theological though at the LTI, Briand and Kristen have given us opportunities to be active and do some fun activities. Last Sunday we attended a professional soccer game between AmaZulu FC and Maritzburg United held in the World Cup Stadium in Durban. Of course we all bought a vuvuzela and became quite good at playing it by the second half. Our neighbors at the Backpacker’s probably aren’t too happy we bought them however. We also have been on a few hikes around some Game Reserves in the surrounding area. It gave us our first glimpse into the divine beauty this country has to offer. We were literally walking amongst Giraffe and Zebra, and were able to get quite close for our obvious photo Ops.

And today we were able to visit the Ecabanzi Zulu cultural homestead, in which we were treated to traditional food, dance, music, and history of the Zulu people.  It was a great chance to see what life is like in rural South Africa, and to learn about some of the country's rich history.

This week of orientation has been an amazing experience. Getting to know the other volunteers has been one of the many highlights this week. Each night after dinner we get the chance to talk and discuss an array of topics. The lack of technology is nice, it gives us a reason to communicate and express opinions we may normally suppress.

Our week ahead looks exciting. We will be traveling to a traditional cultural Zulu village, going on more hikes and visiting a local tradition church in which the music and service is apparently amazing. On Monday we will all depart for our placement sites all throughout South Africa. It will be the start of our independent lives and our first real test as we enter a year of service. However, despite the unknown, I have faith that no matter what it will work out. No matter how lonely I may feel, I will never be alone because I will always be with God.