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07/05/2002 Entry: "A Welsh July 4th"

We had our most unusual July 4th celebration yesterday. A program had been prepared for us by the joint Welsh and English speaking congregations at a village north of Swansea called Clydach. Well rehearsed youngsters from 4 years old to teens, dressed in traditional Welsh costumes (moder rugby as well as older Welsh-women dresses and hats) shared about their heritage by describing the symbols on their flag and their origins, the Welsh anthem, etc.. They even had researched the origins of our US flag and described the one they had displayed on the wall with the Welsh flag. We then had a young lady play the harp and sing in Welsh some beautiful numbers. This was followed by a special treat where a rising Welsh opera celebrity, Timothy Richards, had returned home and volunteered to sing at this special event. He was joined by those who know Welsh (which was the majority last night) and what singing from both Tim and congregation! They then let me get up to speak and share my impressions of our exchange, Wales, etc. and then we had question and answer time. After that we had time of refreshments and fellowship and eventually people finally went home. No fireworks, no extra security, but there was an acknowlegement of being a part of a global family and there were sentiments shared about the ongoing war on terrorism, questions about hanging chad and a close presidential election, alligators, Disney World and what is it like to live in Florida? One youngster asked, does the sun shine much in Florida and I responded, "All of the time, even when it's raining. We just call that liquid sunshine." I suggested that Wales might adopt that expression, too, instead of apolgizing for the weather, which has not dampened our experience one bit.

So, our Fourth of July experience this year was a wonderful wrap up to a wonderful exchange that sadly comes to an end Monday morning as we board a train back to London. Five weeks seemed like a long time when we first got here, and now it's gone by all too quickly as we prepare to leave our new friends and church family here in Wales.

Posted by alice @ 07/09/2002 11:39 PM CST

Don't tell me you got Ivan getting lines into his sermons?! Have you no respect?! :o)

Posted by Richard @ 07/06/2002 01:36 AM CST

I can't believe it's gone so quickly either - it was great to meet you and hope the rest of your trip goes well. Keep in touch!

BTW, did you get that Blues Brothers line into your sermon??!

Posted by alice @ 07/05/2002 02:25 PM CST

It was nice to meet you and your family, Ivan, and I hope that your trip back is safe.

All the best.

Posted by Howard @ 07/05/2002 09:11 AM CST