Shining on

Dear everyone,

First of all, I want to thank you for your involvement over the past months! I have received so many kind messages, cards, and phone calls, which have made me feel incredibly supported and loved.

It is almost impossible to write down everything I experience, go through, and see here, but I will try to share a little bit anyway! : )

The school year is in full swing and extremely busy! Even though the classes are small, there is still more than enough to do. We alternate our days between hard work and enjoyable moments. On September 26th, we celebrated Jabulani Day with the theme Book Character. Everyone from preschool to high school, including the teachers, came dressed as their favorite book character. Together with two other teachers, I dressed up as Willy Wonka, the Golden Ticket, and Violet (the blueberry). What a party that was!

Recently, things have been unsettled in the country. There were many protests, especially in Antananarivo but also in Toamasina. It is sad to see how people live in a system that is so broken. After the dismissal of the entire government and the resignation of the president, peace has returned again. At the moment there is a temporary government trying to rebuild the country. There is a great need for prayer, for change in the system, for the people affected by the protests, and for restoration and help in this country.

A small glimpse into life on board in the Mercy Ships community can be seen in this aftermovie of MASTER CHEF!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RGfWZQTFk8U

Of course, I also went on adventures outside the ship! I found a local church that I regularly attend. There is space for worship, lots of dancing, and encouraging one another. It is special to see how people here live together and support each other, I can learn a lot from that! In addition, I started several children’s programs where the kids learn stories, do creative activities, and work on their English. It is amazing to spend time with these kids and invest in them that makes me so happy!!

I am sending sunshine your way!

📸: Joshua Chau

Kind regards, Norah