JOCV 50th year anniversary

Name: Nariyuki Takenaka
Batch: FY2006-3 (Mar 2007 - Apr 2009)
Technical Field: Woodwork
Host Organization: Salima Vocational Training School
Hometown in Japan: Takaoka City, Toyama

A Piece of Memory: "Gospel in Malawi"

I was a member of a gospel group when I was in Japan, so when I was dispatched to Malawi, I remember how excited I was to go to my place of assignment, thinking "this is a great chance to experience real gospel (spiritual songs) !"

At my place of dispatch, I attended a church called SENGA-BAY C.C.A.P., where I was able to sing at the religious service every Sunday as a member of the gospel choir. The choir I joined seemed to be quite a famous group in Malawi; they released CDs and DVDs and were invited to sing at churches here and there. One of my fondest memories was being allowed to perform at the "Lake of Stars Festival," a music festival held once a year in Malawi.

Now, since I was immersed in gospel like this, I went to church almost every day, including practicing two or three times a week. The time I spent together singing and dancing, and deepening my understanding of Christianity, which is the faith of many Malawians, was very helpful in facilitating activities as a member of JOCV.

I am still amazed at how the Malawians sing and dance. In particular, when I see the children, they sing well, their dancing is sharp, and most of all, they seem to really enjoy it. Gathering at church on Sundays to sing and dance is probably one of their few pastimes. I thought it was very typical of Malawi that they spent far more time singing than the pastor's sermon time.

Performed at Lake of Stars Festival as a member of SENGA-BAY C.C.A.P. SINGERS

In Malawi, it is common for both children and adults to gather in church, and it has become a part of their lives. When I see Malawians cheerfully helping each other even if they are poor, I cannot help but feel the power of religion as a source of emotional support and guidance on life.

The two years I spent in Malawi served as a good opportunity to reflect on my own religion. Realizing how wonderful it is to live with a clear sense of faith like they did, I began to attend church in Japan as well. I am very grateful to the people of Malawi for teaching me to have faith in God.

I am currently working for Toyama YMCA (PIIF), an international youth organization with about 65 million members in 120 countries and regions around the world, and I have heard that there is also a YMCA in Malawi. I dream of interacting with the YMCA in Malawi someday so that Japanese children can become more familiar with Malawi.

Next will be a piece of memory of Mr. Yoshihisa Otsuka (Rural Development Extension Worker) of Batch FY2006-3, who served as the president of the Malawi JOCV Members' Association at the time of his dispatch and was a mood-maker for everyone.