"He is Risen..."

Easter aboard the M/V Africa Mercy is always a really special time. It begins very early in the morning with a sunrise worship service. The crew gathered at 6:30 this morning on deck 8 for a sunrise service.

 
After a wonderful time of worship, we went to the cafe for hot cross buns and coffee.

The kids had a few minutes, between hot cross buns and coffee, to examin the contents of the Easter baskets the teachers put together for all the Academy Students.  Thanks teachers for always thinking of the kids and making holidays extra special for them!!!!

Then the crew went to the International Lounge for a time of community worship. 

It was a wonderful time of praising our risen Lord.

The service opened with the elemantry children's chior singing the call to worship.

In 1978, Mercy Ships purchased the ship what later became the Anastasis-meaning resurrection in Greek.  While the Ana was being converted in Greece, the tradition of Christos Anesti was started.  The leader announces "Christos Anesti" and the congregation replies "Alithos Anesti" (Chirst has risen....He has risen indeed)

As the crew entered the International Lounge, they placed flowers on the cross.

Africa Mercy Chior.

Grades 6-10 did a song in sign language "Landa Yesu" (Follow Jesus)

Worship West African Style.

The High School girls concluded the service with a wonderful dance that was to "The Revelation Song".

Finally, brunch time.  Everyone knows at Easter and Christmas the galley goes all out to spoil the crew.  This year was no exception! 



"Do not be afraid, for I know that you are looking for Jesus, who was crucified.  He is not here;  He has risen, just as he said.  Come and see the place where he lay.  Then go quickly and tell his disciples:  he has risen from the dead and is going ahead of you into Galilee.  There you will see him."

We wish you a blessed Easter.  May you know deep in your heart the power of our risen saviour and Lord...Jesus.