Day 5

Today was full of adventures! This morning started with mass led by Father Bob at Sister Pat and Sister Liz's house. From there, we were able to experience once again the wonders that God is doing through Sister Pat and the Mothers Milk Program. Twenty babies came with their mothers or caretakers in order to receive formula and HEPS, which is a high energy protein supplement made by the women of the village. These are used when the mother does not have enough Breast milk to properly nourish their babies, or, when the mother has passed away in childbirth or is too sick from HIV to breastfeed. Often times in this case, a grandmother or sibling of the child will take over care of them. The babies we saw today were all healthy and thriving because of this program and the amazing things it is doing. 

While some stayed with the mothers and babies at the program, another group went to work with the new industry started by Lukulu's current priest, Father Rene Talabo. This industry is brick making in order to build new housing on the parish grounds. It has created many jobs and is now a thriving business here! Our group was happy to help by moving the bricks from where they are being made to neat piles of 1000 bricks. The goal is to make 60,000 and they are currently at 3,000 finished. Although they have a long way to go, the workers are thankful for the work and were extremely excited to demonstrate to us how they are made! 

Following this morning's activities we continued to make progress on the girls dormitory! The painting is coming along nicely and we are excited to begin laying tile starting tomorrow.

Before dinner, Father Bob, Tom, and Steve sat outside entertaining one group of children with the "Amen" song that is sung in mass while Hannah and Megan played with another group! Mitchell spent time at the basketball court running some drills and playing with the boys and they had an awesome time! They said he is the best coach ever! 

Now, the group is getting ready to head to a special presentation of a traditional African dance put on by some of the locals. We are very excited and hope to get to show off our own moves..that will surely get a laugh. 

We are looking forward to what God has in store for us tomorrow.. 

(Robby posing with triplets on the Mothers Milk Program since he is also a triplet! Ps.. Miss you Joey, Nico and Matthew!) 

(Shoutout to Lyssa's grandma Cathy for the beautiful blankets she made! The mothers and babies absolutely loved them!)

(Sister Pat and her little buddy who has come so far on the program)

(An orphan child who is currently on the program and thriving)

(Sister was so impressed with Mitchell and Robby's excitement to learn more about the program!)

(Sho and Alexis passing out biscuits to the families) 

(Lunch consisted of minnows again which Alexis was brave enough to try!)

Shoutouts:

Steve and Kristin want to tell Cathy and Alex Kueffner they love and miss them both!!