The conference is almost over, and it seems that Dad is the only one with enough time and internet access to let you know what’s going on. Indeed, it is nigh impossible to get any decent chunk of time on the seven computer allotted for 7000 conference participants. I’m actually on Dad’s cute little computer right now.
1. I guess I’ll do it number-style, too.
2. I think I speak for the not-so-old people when I say that we love the singing, in spite of (because of?) the diverse languages used and the occasional confusion. The joyous African songs that cause a bunch of otherwise-stuffy-looking Mennonites to dance–or at least to sway awkwardly–have been a highlight for me.
3. In fact, there could be way more singing as far as I’m concerned. There tend to be 2-3 lengthy messages in addition to a full sermon during each service (they happen twice a day). Too much talking! But perhaps that’s just an impatient young person talking.
4. I have been bustling about trying to find various people to interview for my research. Yesterday was fruitful, with a couple of Brazilians and a Dutch Mennonite giving me interesting perspectives on the 1972 conference in Brazil.
5. I’m off now to track down (hopefully) more folks to interview. My tactic at the moment is lurking around the Brazilian-heavy areas and reading name tags or asking after the people I am looking for. There are so many great resources here, if only I had more time.
6. I made a trip to the supermarket and am now burdened by a large grocery bag filled almost entirely with yerba mate. Paraguayans love meat and and they love yerba. I can at least get enthusiastic about the latter.
Meredith Lehman
