South Western Tanzania

In March this year the BMB, with the support of the South Asia Mission Province and the Province of South Western Tanzania, arranged for Br and Sr Dimchui Rongmei to travel from his ministry in North East India to spend a year in South Western Tanzania on a ministry placement. Br Dimchui writes his first reflections.

Time has passed so quickly; it is hard to believe that a full month has already gone by. From the very first day, our time in Tanzania has been a truly wonderful experience. The people here are kind, gracious, and very helpful. They have thoughtfully provided all the basic necessities for our home, including kitchen supplies.

We have been assigned to a church in Itili, which is about 7 km from where we live at the Provincial Office campus. For transportation, the vice chairperson’s official car is usually provided to take us there, and the church vehicle brings us back. Each day begins with a committee prayer meeting, and I have often been given the opportunities to share from the Word of God.

Although Monday is designated as our rest day, I have expressed my willingness to remain flexible, as ministry often requires. Even on Mondays, we are ready to serve as needed. It has been encouraging to see Dimjeng actively participating among the women. The church has even provided her with a blue uniform to wear during women’s gatherings. I often accompany her to these meetings, which are held regularly on Wednesdays and Fridays, though we sometimes attend additional gatherings as circumstances require.

We have also had opportunities to visit church members in their homes, as well as the sick, both in hospitals and at home. Recently, I was asked to preach on a Friday, and the pastor appreciated the message. He then asked me to preach again on Easter Monday, which was telecasted.

As for our communication, as we are not yet fluent in Swahili, and our pastor does not speak English. However, I see this as a valuable opportunity to learn the language more quickly. Interestingly, people say that Dimjeng’s pronunciation is better than mine, which has sparked a friendly (and positive) competition between us.

The pastor has kindly arranged suits to be tailored for both of us. Here, ministers typically wear a clerical (Roman) collar, which I am not particularly accustomed to. However, out of respect and appreciation for their joy, I am willing to wear it. I had one presented on my ordination, but it is oversized. The church has now had a Roman-style long surplice tailored for me.

This coming Wednesday, I am scheduled to speak at the Moravian University, and tomorrow we will be attending a funeral. In October, we are also planning to visit Zanzibar.

When we go out, people often greet us in Chinese, assuming we are Chinese, but we respond in Swahili, which usually brings smiles. At times, we are overcharged because we are foreigners, and overall, things are a little more expensive than in India. However, fresh vegetables are generally available at reasonable prices, and most vendors are honest.

Health-wise, I had a sore throat during the first week, which has now resolved. More recently, I experienced a severe headache, likely due to exhaustion and the seasonal weather change as it gradually moves toward winter. I am now well, and Dimjeng is also doing fine.

There is so much more we could share, but this letter cannot contain it all.

We understand that the South Asia Provincial Synod is approaching quickly, and you must all be very busy with preparations. Please know that we are praying for you. We will miss being with you, and we wish you all the very best.

Thank you for your continued prayers and support for our ministry. We are truly enjoying our time here. Please keep us in your prayers.

Many blessings,

Br Dimchui and Sr Dimjeng Rongmei