We arrived in fine form, with all three flights on time and all luggage showing up with us. That was a huge relief for one and all. One night in a hotel, and we were off and running and pretending that no one had jet lag. Wednesday morning we visited the Apartheid Museum and learned quite a bit of the history of South Africa.
We next had a workshop at the University of Johannesburg with the Kingsway Choir Wednesday morning, where the choir learned a couple of songs and dances.
The first concert that evening was beautifully sung and very enthusiastically received by the audience.
Thursday, May 10 was a very full day. Two outreach visits to schools, where the kids loved Singers and in turn entertained the choir.
It is quite warm here, though they are insisting on calling it early winter. We were well into the 80s today. Both schools were in a township, and a bishop who grew up there escorted us through his hometown. The South Africans we have met are absolutely delightful, and are as thrilled to have us here as we are to be here. We had a wonderful dinner at another ward house, then sang our first fireside.
10 comments
Hey everyone, we heard from Emily today. She called us at around 12:50 p.m. which was 8:50 p.m. in Pretoria. The connection had absolutely no delay to it and she sounded like she was next door! She said the plane ride was “hateful” (16 hrs. from D.C.) but because they were all so tired they have had absolutely no trouble sleeping anywhere, anytime. Her host family has been very sweet. They have had 4 concerts so far. They visited an outreach in a Pretoria township today and were humbled by their reception. The school had dirt floors and very poor accommodations. She was shocked at the contrast between what American schools have and what those poor Pretoria schools have. But the spirit of the people, especially the children, blew them away. As Dan and Emily walked through the door of one classroom together they were greeted with tremendous cheers of welcome. She said it was also that way when they walked down the alleyway between the shanties. The children cheered for them, swarmed around them, wanted to touch them and told them they wanted to come to America. Emily took some pictures of the children with her digital camera and then about 10 of them gathered very close around her to see the picture and some even put their little faces right next to hers so they could see it better. Emily expressed how overwhelming it was and what a tremendous feeling of gratitude she was feeling toward her loved ones so far away and the many conveniences of life we enjoy. She said she would call again in a few days.
Wonderful pictures! This is a great idea and allows us to feel involved. Seeing this helps reinvigorate us as we try to spread the Singers spirit into our own sphere of influence – musical and otherwise. Sandefur, what would Singers be without you?
Thank you,
Ken & Angela
WOW- thanks to all involved for these great pictures and updates. I didn’t realize how much I missed Jacob and the Singers experience until I saw this posting. From what Jacob shared with me this afternoon, it has already been a great tour. I couldn’t help but smile as he told me about the sweet elementary school children that all wanted to hug and touch the Singers. We’re glad that all has gone so well but Zach and I are already counting the days until dad comes home!
Thanks for the pictures. We really appreciate the chance to follow the Singers on their tour.
I want to sincerely thank all of you for representing us so well. I loved to see the pictures you posted and to know you are all enjoying your visit there. We are glad as a family to see Josh, Nick and Crissy there and we are ready to listen to the experiences they have to share. JOSH I LOVE YOU SO VERY MUCH!!! Singers, you take care of him. I know that through the wonderful music you sing you will touch the hearts of all those hundreds of people who will be listening to you. Much love and prayers for all of you, Xime.
How wonderful to see you all and all about your trip. What an experience!I will be jealous of your time in Kruger, so lots of pictures and don’t forget to journal, the memories just fade too fast when so much is gong on. I’m sure your music will touch all who hear you and what a way to share the spirit. Brent, Stay happy, we love you and do let your ears hang low when necessary. Mom & Ken
I love all your pictures, Aunt Becca!!!!!!!! Mommy can pick you out amongst the singers very easily! Show lots more pictures! I love you!
Thanks so much for sharing pictures and comments with your parents and families here at home. We love being a part of your tour. It is such a wonderful opportunity you have been blessed with and we know you will be great representatives.
Es un gozo saber que estos maravillosos jóvenes representan a la BYU, llevando un mensaje de amor a través del canto para un pueblo tan rico en cultura y tradiciones como el sudafricano.
Desde Ushuaia, Argentina, esperamos algún día, no muy lejano, disfrutar de ese mismo canto de ángeles.
I echo what others have written and say, “WOW!” What memories of our own trip to Africa come flooding back as I look at your pictures! Thank you for the idea of the blog, I’m still a little undecided as to what is more fun, seeing pictures of your tour (any my cute little sister Sarah–hi Sarah), or reading the comments from alumni I know. Both are great! Have a wonderful time, and thanks again for letting us share your experience.
Wendy