If this doesn't fill your cup - nothing will!

If this doesn’t fill your cup - nothing will!" Those were the words of my new-found friend Lauren, who came with me to Korah on a day that turned out to be one of the highlights of my trip!

A month before leaving for Ethiopia, I had asked Sammy, the Director of Great Hope Ministries in Korah; "What is one of the greatest needs that you have right now?"  His answer, was that second to baby formula for the HIV mothers, they needed new clothes for the elderly lepers.   Thanks to God and to those who generously donated to Hope for Korah we were able to fill this need.  It was such fun for me to go shopping at the Mercardo (market area) in Addis for these clothes with Berhanu and Murad, leaders from Great Hope Ministry.  I was the only "Ferenge" (foreigner) in sight, but alongside my body guards, I felt very safe and had quite the experience.  After the bartering was complete, we came away with thirteen new suits, shirts, socks and shoes for the Elders of Korah.

Arriving at the shelter the next morning, I knew it would be a joyous occasion for these men, but what I did not expect was the excitement and joy on the faces of all of those around who
gathered together, to witness and celebrate this special moment. The courtyard was filled with laughter and joy! Everyone clapped and cheered as each man emerged from the shelter transformed and beaming, having exchanged his dirty rags for a new suit and shoes. Some of the Korah ladies could not hold back their tears, as the men they valued so deeply were honoured and treasured in such a way. My cup did overflow that morning and I believe all of our cups did! 

I hope you too; will experience some of this joy as you enter into this celebration through the photographs and video below.  Thank you to everyone who made this moment possible.  It was a privilege and honour for me to share this moment on your behalf and I will always remember it, for the rest of my life.

My favorite video: Trying on their new clothes - it is worth watching to the end!