Safari

"Polka dots!!" he shouted, excitedly pointing, "a cat.... with spots!!!" It was already dusk and we were winding our way back out of the game reserve when this last great sighting of the evening occurred. A leopard or possibly a cheetah, right next to us! The Pilanesburg Game Reserve has recreated the African savannah, relocating over 3000 animals that were once indiginous to this part of South Africa. Day trip safaris are offered; it's a wonderful way to take a peek at real live, wild animals in what may be the most natural habitat many of us have ever observed. Our groups rode in large open vehicles that permitted excellent views. In one day, we saw hippos sunning themselves, zebra and giraffe grazing, galloping gnus, rummaging warthogs, hyena, jackels, spring bok and beautiful birds. We watched lions playfully paw one another and, at one point a family of rhinocerous actually blocked the road, trotting unhurriedly in front of our vehicles. Our guide commented that they can be quite stubborn!
I marveled at how very disinterested the animals were. Surely they can hear and smell us coming, two miles away and yet they are completely undetered by our gawking presence.

Worship at St. Mary's

Clouds of incense wafted through the old Anglican cathedral. It was a high Mass, lasting about 90 minutes( a bit of a stretch for us, Presbyterians) complete with the Zulu Mass parts that we had rehearsed with St. Mary's choir director, Sidumo Jacobs. Our choir joined his in singing the liturgy and hymns. The congregation responded warmly to our anthems and most remained after the service to hear two additional pieces. Again, Jenny brought down the house with "Great Day." After the service, the St. Mary's Choir treated us to refreshments and , best of all, spontaneous singing. Never have I heard a group sing with more connectedness, ease and passion. Their intonation was not perfect and, at times, the tone was raucous, but the devotion and pure joy was unmistakeable. The singing was always accompanied by dance- not elaborate and definately contagious. At one point, we ended up in a circle, lifting our voices, moving with the music. It ended (far too soon) with fervant hugs and words of gratitude. It was a blessing to experience!

Singing at Kwa Thema Methodist Church

Saturday night concert

The members will tell you that Kwa Thema Methodist Church is the place to be. From the beginning of the evening, when first notes were sung, the congregation practically vibrated with music and fellowship. The evening began with traditional music from our host choir, the South African Chamber Choir. The audience cheered and sang along, waved and yelled their approval. They were a noisy group when they heard something they especially liked, screaming and ululating (a piercing high pitch yodel), but also, at times quiet and reverant. When our group took the stage, the audience greeted us warmly with smiles and hearty applause. It wasn't until we sang gospel that they really warmed up. Great Day brought them to their feet dancing and cheering. The response to Jen's solo was astonishing... screaming and waving, must have been the high b-flat.