During the week of July 28-Aug. 2, Jorge and I departed from Cincinnati for Angola. En route, we stopped over in Frankfurt, Germany.

The brethren welcomed us at the Luanda International Airport and escorted us to the church hall in Luanda, where we met other church members. After a brief song and prayer of thanks to God for our safe arrival, we enjoyed singing hymns and talking with brethren. We also visited the little school the church runs where the pre-K to grade 3 children were preparing for their morning classes. After our very pleasant welcome, we were taken to our hotel for the remainder of the day. Before the Sabbath we had a brief leadership meeting to discuss spiritual instruction needed and different challenges the Church is having in this society.

The next morning, Jorge and I attended Sabbath services in the central Luanda congregation with approximately 300 brethren from different areas. The main message was about the Church’s mission to preach the gospel of the Kingdom of God and teaching the things concerning Jesus Christ (Acts 28:31). The value and meaning of the sacrifice of Jesus Christ was explained and why it can pay for all our sins. The sermon then covered what it really means to us in a practical day-to-day life.

Several choirs did special music, which was outstanding, particularly the children’s choir. In the afternoon we had a Bible study for over two hours discussing the plan of salvation and the next key events to watch for before Christ’s second coming. We had about 150 brethren attending the Bible study. 

On Sunday, we attended a wedding and were amazed at how beautifully organized it was. The music and songs, which accompanied the wedding ceremony, added to the festivity.

Leadership training followed on Monday and Tuesday. Topics ranged from sermonette training, the importance of sound doctrine, rules of interpretation and the importance of our calling. The sessions were highly interactive and generated lively question-and-answers sessions on many practical day-to-day questions, such as how to handle anniversaries and birthdays, conducting various ceremonies (such as weddings and funerals) and the vision of the Church.

Wednesday was our last day in Luanda. I was able to address the ladies on the topic of the “Power of Encouragement.” Over 100 ladies attended the seminar and were all well dressed in similar matching dresses. After our question-and-answer session, we ended our day by leaving the Church hall with the ladies all singing in unison. It was, indeed, very moving, touching and a perfect ending to our visit to Luanda. Until next time!