from George Sanchez

This has been an eye opening experience for all of us.

As we drive along the country roads, livestock (oxen carts, roosters, goats, cows, dogs) meander along the roadway. Amazing that we haven’t hit anything or anyone!

Tues, & Wed, we were in Tirunelveli where we visited a school for the deaf (enjoying a group of dancers and receiving another set of garlands for everyone.)

At the school for the deaf, we watched students weave cloth, use the science lab and math board, engaged in classes for each age level from age 3 and older.

The Industrial School received the President’s Award for all of India! Practical computer hardware and software, carpentry and housekeeping skills are taught.

A highlight was visiting to Christ Church where Esther Prabhakar’s father had served as a pastor. Three bishops met us there and together with our pastors conducted a worship service with communion . Our group sang a traditional song in Tamil Afterwards, gifts were exchanged and we were garlanded by our hosts.

Another highlight was a visit to Esther’s sister’s home. We brought her gifts, prayed with her and sang in Tamil. (Our singing improves with each performance!) She experienced heart problems. We continue receiving good news from Pr. Bill and Isabel Wittig. Our hope is for them to be able to travel back to the U.S. with us next week.

Dr. John & Esther have been the EXCEPTIONAL HOSTS guiding us around their home town and surrounding areas. Dr. John has been using his medical skills with various illnesses.

Today is Thursday, Jan. 24 and 6 members of our group are en route back to the U.S. as pre-planned; 2 new members have joined us, also pre-planned. Now we are a 22 member delegation/family, interacting in southern India.

After a six hour train ride, we arrived at Trichy Junction where we were met by Bishop Gideon and members of the Arcot Lutheran Church. Our transfer to a van took us over meandering roads of various surface types. WOW! We arrived in time for supper on the patio of our hotel (beside a swimming pool). Wake up tomorrow at 6 am for an 8:00 departure.

Signing off from the India Pilgimage….