Our Day With the King

No, we didn't meet THE King, Jesus, yet.  And no, it wasn't Elvis.  It was the Nayiri, Naa Bohagu Mahami Abdulai Sherigah, King of the Mamprusi traditional area.  He lives in Nalerigu but he reigns over all the Mamprusi people that extends into much of the Northern Region of Ghana.  He is very influential, even with the President of Ghana.  

We had a special invitation to meet him so we donned our African garments and went to meet him at -- where else -- his Palace!  We went with some other volunteers and Dr. Vince Waite who was a long-time missionary doctor here some years ago.  He is personal friends with the Nayiri so he helped make sure we didn't do anything culturally offensive.  We entered the palace compound in single file just like we had been instructed.  When we entered the throne room, we had to bend over, squat and walk -- without making eye contact with his highness.  The men had to clap softly and the women were to make a snapping sound by pushing on the pinkie side of one hand with the other hand.  Not sure what the significance of that is.

The Nayiri was very gracious and smiled the entire time.  While we waited to be introduced to him individually, we sat in leather lounge chairs and love seats that were arranged in a semi-circle on one side of the throne room.  After all the formalities, he greeted us with the warmest wishes from the Mamprusi people and spoke fondly about the years of work done at the Baptist Medical Centre in Nalerigu.  Evan felt led to pray for the Nayiri and gained permission from his aide / interpreter.  It was very special to have prayer with the King.

Then it was time for the photo shoot.  We were, at this time, allowed up on the throne "platform" and were even allowed to sit on the royal animal skins.  Mona once again came through with some great shots!  (The one with the Nayiri has Christmas card potential. )

Then we received a very special gift from the King.  A guinea fowl.  Live!  You should have seen Evan struggling with the four birds inside the cab of the white truck.  One even managed to get out and fly away.  Not to worry, though.  One of the local boys ran and climbed the tree where it landed and brought it to us.  Amazing.  

Needless to say, we had a delicious lunch the next day!

After receiving the gifts, we mingled around the compound and visited with some of the Nayiri's 15 wives and countless children.  Cindy and the girls particularly enjoyed playing with the young princes and princesses.   We we even went to greet the Nayiri's First Wife -- a coveted title, I'm sure.

It was a fairy tale day as you can tell.  A day we won't soon forget!

Pray for the Nayiri.  I don't know if he is a Christian, but he is certainly tolerant and supportive of the mission efforts in Nalerigu and for that we are most grateful.  Pray that he will lead his people to know and follow Jesus amidst much muslim and traditional religion.

Following . . . .