A New Kind of Worship

In the lives of all of us here, corporate worship is a central part of our faith. This looks different for all of us. Some of us came from small congregations of less than 100 and some of us came from mega churches. Yet, "church" for us is similar. That is all about to change. 

Every Sunday night, a different affinity group prepares a worship in the styles and languages of that area of the world. It is a very special time for us to share in each other's culture. We try to mimic the culture of the body of Christ in that setting. We even try to wear clothing appropriate for that culture.


No interpreting is allowed. All songs, all scripture readings, all prayers are in the native language of the people. Then, there is a short sermon or teaching in a native language.


The first night it was very funny. We looked at each other and laughed because we did not know what we were singing or what was being said.


This is very helpful for the McDaniel family, though. When we step off the plane we will not hear any English. When we go to the market, we will not hear English. When we go to church of Sunday, we will not hear English. Our ears need to be used to hearing other languages and our hearts need to know what it feels like to not understand what people are saying or singing. This is good preparation for that.


The best night for us was when we had Sub-Saharan Africa worship. Enjoy some of our photos!

All dressed in our African clothes.

Lilly brought her baby along and her drum. 

My sweet friend Shandra and baby Hadassa

Drum lessons

Emma trying to get the rhythm!

Girls not knowing what to think of the languages that they are hearing

Tracy