An Invitation to Dine with the President

We, as members of the current crew of the Africa Mercy, were extraordinarily honored to be invited as guests of the President of the Republic of Benin to the Presidential Palace for a dinner and awards ceremony in honor of the completion of our outreach in Benin. More than 300 of us were escorted by air-conditioned coach to the palace where we were met by the military guards and gathered in a large foyer awaiting the arrival of all of the crew that could attend.

We were then directed to a large, beautifully decorated ballroom and seated at tables of 8-10 guests. The president present. The Chef of State prepared a large buffet meal featuring several national dishes while a large variety of local cultural dancers and artists presented a remarkable evening program.

Mercy Ships has been granted unusual favor in working in countries in which traditional Christian ministries have been denied. This "two hands of the Gospel approach" has been well received - to love and work to heal the poor unconditionally while motivated by the love of a God who wants to be known.

Cameras were not allowed in the palace. There were some official photos taken and we will update the blog once we receive them.

Gary