We had a very busy and fun-filled day today! St. James Parish School was celebrating their Feast Day and had many celebrations planned. Mass was an extravaganza! There were dancers, instruments, singing, clapping, and everything you could imagine. Three different groups of children had choreographed dancing up and down the aisles during specified times. I have no idea how long it took them to learn the dances plus the timing of everything. Even the little nursery school students did some dancing, with the help of their teachers of course. Many of the songs were in Swahili or a combination of Swahili and English. Even without knowing the words it is a joyful experience.
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| Patti and St. James boys practicing drums. |
After mass we were treated to a show by the students. Different grades had prepared an assortment of entertainment pieces for us. Some students played drums, others sang or recited poems, and many danced. Several times the children came into our area and guided us to the middle where we danced with them. I’m sure trying to dance their traditional Kenyan dances amused the older children.
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| Monsignor and Gabriela sharing dolls from Dollies Making a Difference. |
Once lunch was over, Chris, Monsignor, and I handed out fabric dolls to the Baby Class. Wow, are they precious! These little three- and four-year olds basically mobbed Monsignor and me as they clambered over and grabbed at their new toys. I wish I could have stayed longer and played dollies with them, but there were more festivities to attend.
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| Monsignor with the children. |
Finally, we had a fashion show. Teachers chose students in their classes to dress up today for a fashion show. The youngest ones were simply adorable, while the older children became rather animated. There were definitely some models in the making. Hips were swaying, eyes were rolling, heads were bouncing, kisses were blowing, and hands were gesturing, a definite entertainment piece! Interacting with the wonderful students and people of St. James has truly been a highlight of my life.
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| Gabriela, Sr. Mariam, and Angela after dinner |
-- Gabriela Gualano
