There we are sitting in church, just after arriving in Chamelco (only after 3 months of language school). We are content experiencing the culture, listening for words we recognize as we read body language to interpret the rest. Then I hear “North Americans” as the congregation simultaneously turns to look at us and energetically begins waving us up to the stage. With dumb founded looks on our faces we make our way to the front, the pastor smiles and then hands us a microphone. We have no idea what we are to say, but assume we need to introduce ourselves and explain why we are here. I’m not much of a public speaker, so with that in mind, take this slight phobia and pour miracle grow all over it to know how I feel as I face a crowd that is waiting to hear the gringa speak. I hand the mike to Shane, smile, and stand there in silence. People clap and I return to my seat.
Even churches we go to for a second time will have us come up to the stage yet again (happened last week). Generally, churches in the states hope that visitors feel as comfortable as possible, while the intentions here are to welcome and recognize the visitor. It can be a little nerve racking at the time, but it’s good. There is no slipping in and out the back door here without being talked to or greeted. It's an example of the emphasis put on relationships in this culture.
And speaking of relationships, here are some friends I have made in the community of Satexa.
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