Evangelical Lutheran Church in America. Bishop DeForest and Rev. Enoch's parish. They first met with Andrea and Michael Koehn, a German couple sponsored by the German Missionary Society, followed by representatives from their partnering congregations. A highlight of the visit was touring a hydroelectric project designed to provide electricity to impoverished areas of the district, a cooperative effort between the church and the government.
The next morning, as they traveled through the picturesque countryside, the beauty of the area left a lasting impression. Makete, known for its lumber and potato industries, surprised them with its mountainous terrain as they climbed higher into the Livingston Mountains. Upon arrival in Utengule, they were greeted with flowers and singing, a warm welcome that brought tears of joy and highlighted the sincere Christian joy of the community.
Bishop deForest and Rev. Michele Kaufman engaged in meaningful conversations about past experiences, with the locals expressing amazement that their Bishop and guests would visit what they called "the end of the world. Michele Kaufman corrected them, saying their Bishop had brought them halfway to heaven. The day continued with visits to various parishes, including Tandala parish with Pr.
Edwina, and a stop at the Pastoral Training Institute, where they met students. The evening was filled with singing and dancing, extending late into the night. The following day began at the Lutheran Secondary School in Bulonga, where they met with the headmaster, teachers, and staff.
This residential school was commended for its dedicated staff and their support for children who had struggled in the public system. Their next stop was the Lutheran Hospital, known for its work with HIV and its obstetrics department, providing care for mothers and children up to five years of age. They then visited the Bulongwa Health Science Institute, which prepares doctors and dentists by combining studies with practical hospital experience.
