Because Ethiopia still follows its own ancient calendar, it started the new millennium on September 11, 2007. As such, many cities in Ethiopia have what they call a "Millenium Park" commemorating this date. We visited one of these parks in the Southern Highlands of Arbegona.
From the park there is a beautiful view of these falls. I do not know the name of them, but next time we are there we will surely try to hike much closer. They were stunning even from a distance. 
This is Linda Adams (ICCM Director) standing near one of the (Sidamic?) huts that was built as a historic monument for this park.
The inside of these huts is surprisingly large. Divided into three separate rooms, two for sleeping and one for hangin' out. This is the bed platform...I don't think a Sleepnumber goes on top of that! 
Jervaun and the kids in front of the hut. You can see how big it is. This hut was specifically designed as a meeting hut. It had a built up bench that encircled the entire ut and the center was for fire!
This is the Upper Elementary campus of Arbegona's School. They have a full size soccer field, a small computer lab, a library and even a rudimentary science lab. The teachers and students alike are very proud of their school and were so eager to show us the entire campus.
The students line up for the flag raising ceremony and "program" where the students sang for us and we spoke briefly to them. 
Then we had a short time of prayer, both for our journey and for their school!
Patiently waiting to raise the flag...
One of the highlights of our trip was getting to meet and present a care package to a child that my dear friends, the Jackson family, are sponsoring. Kaleb was so sweet and handsome. It was so fun to give him a hug on my friends' behalf. Kaleb is in sixth grade and the Jackson's have been sponsoring him since he started school in Arbegona. I look forward to attending his graduation, God willing, in the near future!
2 comments:
That is so cool. I honestly can't make it through any of these posts without crying. I am just so excited for what God is going to do through you guys. I am proud to be your friend!
Great pictures! Our 4 year old son was born in Arbegona. We didn't get to see much of Arbegona itself, but enjoyed the long and bumpy ride from Awassa! Do you know how many schools there are in Arbegona? We were never really able to gauge how large it was. I found myself meticulously searching your photos, trying to see the face of one of my son's siblings!
Post a Comment