Last Saturday, I had a wonderful experience. One of the
young Nigerian men working at the American Embassy invited the staff to his
wedding and four of us decided to attend. After a scenic two and a half hour
drive, we arrived in the small village of Kafanchan. See the
photos in the “Wedding” album.
the sound of the choir singing Amazing Grace welcomed us. We were escorted to prominent seats just behind where the wedding party was to sit. We were honored guests and were made to feel most welcome. As we waited for the church to fill, the chorus and a band entertained, singing spirituals and West African songs, some of them in the native language Hausa. After a half hour or so, the wedding procession entered the church and made its way to the front of the church as the people sang and danced. The celebration went on like this for another 45 minutes. It was the most joyful, colorful wedding I have ever attended. The women were dressed in their finest dresses and damasks (headdress), in brilliant colors. The church was filled to capacity and young girls and children from the village stood outside watching through the open windows.
Like all church weddings, the serious side of the ceremony had to be performed. There were at least five Ministers there and each one had to make his contribution to solemnify the marriage. After an hour and a half, all had had their say, the wedding vows were exchanged and the cutest ring bearer and flower girl presented the rings. The singing and dancing recommenced and everyone danced their way out of the church to the reception area outside.
As Mr. And Mrs. Daniel Kaga had their first dance together as man and wife, the guests gathered round and showered them with money. Those who were not on the invitation list, ringed the party and enjoyed the afternoon. It was a very special day for the village and a very special day for me to feel so welcomed among these incredibly warm and friendly people. Refreshments were served, the band played and the people danced on.
Oh lucky man! What a great experience and your description of it was wonderful. Thanks.
Posted by: Stacey | October 11, 2005 at 10:45 PM
Beautiful photos! I hope the bride and the groom will get some of them. Sure sounds like you are having fun. I am glad.
Posted by: Ann | October 11, 2005 at 01:00 PM
Any single chicks?
Posted by: Gregg G. | October 10, 2005 at 09:21 PM
What a lovely experience. It`s a long way from FranklinAve.
Posted by: Ann | October 10, 2005 at 06:21 PM
Jack, What a treat on this damp, cold, grey Monday morning in Connecticut! Diana
Posted by: Diana | October 10, 2005 at 06:13 PM
I wish I had been there!!
Posted by: joan delaney | October 10, 2005 at 03:03 PM
Jack,
Sounds like your experience there truly gratifying...On a cultural note of smaller scale (some NYers would disagree)...Any chance you have a dish at a bar somewhere in the area that is showing MLB playoffs? I sincerely doubt it but the Yanks won 3-2 last night (Sunday) and flew out to Cali to play game 5 tonight against the Angels...Jack is becoming a big baseball fan and is playing on a team and is really into watching football, as well..I taught him well if I do say so myself!
chris
Posted by: chris goldsholl | October 10, 2005 at 03:03 PM
Great stuff Jack. I wish for you that all of your experiences are even only half this rich. Although there must be much mundane living, your blog speaks of a wealth of new and interesting opportunities.
riley
Posted by: Riley | October 10, 2005 at 01:34 PM