Saturday September 15, 2007

First Baptist Church in Ghana
Reflections Day Five
Written by Deborah Jones-Napier

It is a beautiful day in Ghana and as we gather in the lobby for our trip to Kyebi, all of my sisters and brothers were in a joyous state, talking, taking pictures and continuing to bond. This experience has taught me what true fellowship means. I am so blessed to be in the presence of an incredible group of men and women who love the Lord. Our brothers represented kingship while our sisters were queenly women of grace and elegance. The presence of the Holy Spirit was in this place. As we traveled from Accra to Kyebi, the countryside was absolutely breath-taking. The mountains were incredibly beautiful. I experienced an indescribable peace that can not be explained. As we traveled the countryside, I felt as if I had traveled these roads before. I knew at that moment that I was in my motherland.

We arrived in Kyebi approximately 1:30 in the afternoon for the Durbar which was hosted by His Majesty Osagyefua Amoatia Ofori Panin. The Durbar was a celebration to welcome Pastor Soaries, First lady Soaries and the First Baptist delegation to Kyebi. When we entered we heard the beating of the drums. I was overwhelmed to be in the presence of my people. For the first time in my life, I felt truly connected to my past, present and future.

Pastor spoke so eloquently and passionately to those in attendance. He reminded us that this was not only a celebration but a reunion as we are reunited with our people. The fellowship with our sisters and brothers can only be described by First Baptist Church delegation as an incredible, awesome, ritualistic, fantastic, extraordinary, indescribable, unbelievable, overwhelming experience. I will never be the same. Thank you to my Ghanaian family.