Independence Day in India

August 15 is the celebration of the birth of the nation of India. We are lodged just next door to a school and this morning the children were out in formation to recognize the birthday of their nation. It was good to hear them make recitations and to celebrate.

This evening we went into Kolkata for our evening meal. So many places were decorated with streamers and balloons. There was a festive spirit in the air. The restaurant gave balloons to their younger patrons. Unfortunately the six of us at our table exceeded the age limit.

The rain of the earlier part of the day gave way to a pleasant evening. The humidity is high but the temperature was down. We are in air-conditioning most of the time. It greatly relieves the discomfort of the humidity.

Today we got to know each other as a team and we talked about specific things that will be part of our discussion in these days. The plan at this point is for us to start with our meetings here in Kolkata. Then we will divide and three of us head for Hyderabad (I am with this team) and the other three head for Ranchi. These will both be site visits relative to the work of MCSFI and MCC.

Tomorrow we are going to one of the historic churches of Kolkata to join with them in worship. It is a fifteen minute walk from our location and they have an earlier service. Both of these are practical considerations for our time and experience here.