Companions in Christ:
the first official visit to South-west Tanganyika

The Revd Pam Powell, Mrs Ros Crawford, the Revd David Lewis,
Canon Bill Rowell, the Rt Revd John Simalenga
and the Rt Revd Stephen Lowe

It was quite an experience! Seven representatives from St Asaph, led by Bishop Stephen Lowe, were commissioned by Bishop Gregory to travel to Tanzania and start the process of linking our diocese with that of SW Tanganyika, a largely poor rural area bordering Lake Nyasa. From the moment they stepped off their small plane at Njombe to be greeted by several hundred singing Mothers' Union members and children, none were unaffected by the deep faith of those they met, even in the most difficult conditions. "We were inspired by the hope and joy of the whole Christian community and humbled by the dedication of the clergy," said Bishop Stephen, on behalf of the group. "Where the land was not good enough to generate much income for a parish then the clergy do not even receive their salaries of £60 a month.  School fees and medical fees cannot be paid and life may depend on a vegetable patch, a cow and a few chickens."

Bishop John Simalenga accompanied thr group for the whole journey and was unstinting in his efforts to ensure that they had a chance to see a cross-section of life in the Diocese. They travelled over 500 miles on rough roads. They were often very tired, but after a long day to be met with song and dance, waving palms and laughing children lifted even the most flagging spirits.

The group will be reporting soon on how the diocese might engage with this new link. Bishop Stephen says, "Make no mistake, this Tanzanian Diocese has much to teach us!  Our response as a Diocese to the visit will mark our understanding of the true nature of the Body of Christ."