Kate's most fun week ever

Dana & Kate jumping with joy

Actually touching down in Cape Town was one of the most surreal experiences I have ever had. Not only was I exhausted after spending 20 plus hours on a plane, but it was also very dreamlike to finally be in the place I had been looking forward to for so long. A definite highlight of that first day was meeting Ben, who, despite the fact that none of us had ever met him nor knew anything about him, knew all of our names and greeted us with hugs as if we were old friends. Upon exiting the building and climbing on to our luxurious bus, I was immediately struck with awe as I gazed up at Table Mountain for the first time. The beauty of the mountain, and the fact that you can almost always see it and use it as a landmark has continue to amaze me even after being here 10 days. Looking back on my experience so far, it is already hard to put into words all the beautiful things I have seen and experienced.

One of my favorite things we’ve done so far was attending a church service at Sivuyile Baptist Church in Guguletu, a nearby township. The spirit and vibrancy of the congregation was unbelievable. Even though I was raised Catholic and still attend church regularly, I have never witnessed such a strong sense of community and strength in worship. In the Catholic Church the congregation plays almost no part in the service, something I can’t imagine seeing at this church. Everyone was engaged in the near constant singing, and you could tell everyone truly wanted to be there. My favorite part of the service happened when all the members of the congregation suddenly spoke simultaneously. Although they were speaking in Xhosa, it was very apparent they were all voicing individual prayers. The experience was very inspiring and influential.

I can honestly say this week has been on of the most fun weeks I have ever had. It’s incredible to look back and reflect on all the beautiful places and people I’ve already come in contact with. I can only imagine what’s to come in the next 15 weeks! I included my favorite picture from the trip so far- a jumping picture on top of Signal hill, which overlooks the entire city and ocean.