a wedding at last!

Ever since we arrived in Benin, we had wanted to go to a wedding. All the other missionaries seemed to go to a lot, but at first no one we knew was getting married, and then when we started hearing of weddings either in churches we knew or of people we knew, things kept happening to stop us from attending. Rainstorms, illnesses, pregnancy sickness, being away from home … and at last a few weeks ago we were actually in our village when a couple in our church got married!

It was a big wedding, but that goes without saying really, since all weddings here are big! Not only is the whole church invited, but extended family on both sides … and family can extend a long way!! We arrived in plenty of time, and found that the wedding venue had been changed just that morning! It had been supposed to take place under a grove of trees next to the school, permission had been sought and granted … but then that morning they realised that some children needed to pass exams and so it wasn't possible to have a wedding take place under the windows! So it was held the other side of the road, next to our church, instead. We found ourselves seats in the shade, greeted people we knew and visiting pastors … and waited.

It made me smile a little to be handed the official running order for the events of the day. Everything was planned down to the last minute … and we were already running late! But the service went well, with several choirs, two pastors, the elder of another church and Marc all taking part! One thing I noticed which was very different from weddings back in Europe was how serious the wedding party all looked. I have heard that the bride shouldn't look happy about leaving her father's household, and I think in general the idea is that this is a solemn occasion and not something to be taken lightheartedly. In the photo of the wedding couple plus pastors/missionaries you will see who forgot that she shouldn't smile (good to see that the pastor next to me has a big grin too!).

After the ceremony we were ushered with the other pastors/elders into the house of our local government representative for the meal. It was huge and delicious! Pounded yams with chicken and spinach sauce, then a rice dish, and then "akassa" (a slightly-fermented millet paste). And fizzy drinks for everyone, much to Simon's delight.