On Saturday we traveled to a rainforest, Kakum, where most of the group embarked on a walkway constructed high above the tree tops. Suspended by a series of steel cables which stretch from one tree to another, the boards are connected to the steel cables by rope. During the evening a group of dancers and drummers entertained us for several hours. Most of us joined the dancers for the final number!
The group traveled to Kamasi, a village about a 3 hour trip by bus, on Sunday. While in Kamasi, we took a bus trip to Lake Bosomtwe, a very large lake in central Ghana. Several members of the group took a boat ride while the remaining members reamined on shore talking to the villagers.
Yesterday morning we toured the grounds surrounding the palace of the King of Asante. In the afternoon we visited the Archdiocese's Cathedral after which we made our way through the crowded marketplace on way to the zoo in Kamasi, where we saw a variety of native animals.
After two days of treveling and sightseeing, today is a day of rest and recuperation!
Ghana Recap
Yesterday morning the group heard from two instructors from Cape Coast University regarding health care issues in Ghana. The points included the delivery and type of health care services especially in remote areas and the role of the national, district and local organizations in providing health care services especially for those who are too poor to pay for adequate health care services.
During the afternoon the group traveled to Elmira, the site of a "slave castle" where millions of Africans were imprisoned before waiting to be transported by ship to various parts of the world.
During the evening the group gathered to attempt to assimilate and articulate what we've experienced thus far. Many of us spoke about our reactions to the fishing village through which we walked the first afternoon. Many of the group had not previously witnessed such extreme poverty; however, many commented on the joy, exuberance and delight of the children despite such conditions.
This morning we listened to an instructor from St. Augustine's College in Cape Coast regarding the history, geography and demographics of Ghana. The instructor also presented information regarding current political structure, and societal and developmental issues.
The afternoon we traveled to Cape Coast, where we experienced the cacophony of cars, trucks, motorcycles, pedestrians, and people selling wares such as dried fish, candy bars, bread and even sunglasses, most of which were carried on their heads in large baskets or platters. We also toured Cape Coast Castle, which was similar to Elmira.
The day ended with a trip to an African festival.
The electricity remains intermittent and unpredictable.
The weather continues to be a bit overcast with light rain showers throughout the day. Although the days have been warm and humid, the nights have been rather cool.
During the afternoon the group traveled to Elmira, the site of a "slave castle" where millions of Africans were imprisoned before waiting to be transported by ship to various parts of the world.
During the evening the group gathered to attempt to assimilate and articulate what we've experienced thus far. Many of us spoke about our reactions to the fishing village through which we walked the first afternoon. Many of the group had not previously witnessed such extreme poverty; however, many commented on the joy, exuberance and delight of the children despite such conditions.
This morning we listened to an instructor from St. Augustine's College in Cape Coast regarding the history, geography and demographics of Ghana. The instructor also presented information regarding current political structure, and societal and developmental issues.
The afternoon we traveled to Cape Coast, where we experienced the cacophony of cars, trucks, motorcycles, pedestrians, and people selling wares such as dried fish, candy bars, bread and even sunglasses, most of which were carried on their heads in large baskets or platters. We also toured Cape Coast Castle, which was similar to Elmira.
The day ended with a trip to an African festival.
The electricity remains intermittent and unpredictable.
The weather continues to be a bit overcast with light rain showers throughout the day. Although the days have been warm and humid, the nights have been rather cool.
Greetings from Ghana!
We arrived around 12 midnight.
We spent yesterday morning in orientation sessions and hiked to a fishing village. Today we spent the entire day touring various CSC institutions.
Ghana is experiencing periodic, random power outages due to a lack of hydroelectric power - thus the cursory information.
We spent yesterday morning in orientation sessions and hiked to a fishing village. Today we spent the entire day touring various CSC institutions.
Ghana is experiencing periodic, random power outages due to a lack of hydroelectric power - thus the cursory information.
Money and more...
First, Bro Paul just wrote me with a good tip: "Let me draw your attention to the fact that Ghana re-denominated its currency starting July 1, 2007. Now the value of the Ghanaian cedi is worth more than the US dollar. For example $1 is equivalent to 92 or 93 pesewas depending on the exchange rate. It means that with $1 you don't get GH¢1. My experience is that many students will spend between 100 and up. I am writing this so that they can prepare otherwise they may not be able to buy much if they bring little money."
Second, I want to make sure you know now of the fact that Holy Cross College, of course, pays the Brothers for all of your food, lodging, and fees in Ghana. The one thing the school will not pay for is your alcohol. It is not that alcohol is evil, just that we do not know how each of you handles alcohol. So here is the deal:
Now, in terms of alcohol, the arrangement is simple: yes, you can provide alcohol. We suggest that the basic guide would be:
-you will not have alcohol with meals, except on particular festive occasions
-on those occasions, the Brothers will provide alcohol, but only enough for one or two per person.
-You will give Brother Chris a buck for each beer you had. It will not be an awkward pay-at-the-moment thing. Rather, using the honor system, you will give him the $ later.
Lastly, just let me urge you to know yourself. If you can enjoy a beer, fine, but if you tend to want more and more, avoid it. We do not want to be the Ugly Americans who come in like Frat Boys or Party Girls and spend in a night of drinking what it takes many Ghanaians a month to earn.
Second, I want to make sure you know now of the fact that Holy Cross College, of course, pays the Brothers for all of your food, lodging, and fees in Ghana. The one thing the school will not pay for is your alcohol. It is not that alcohol is evil, just that we do not know how each of you handles alcohol. So here is the deal:
Now, in terms of alcohol, the arrangement is simple: yes, you can provide alcohol. We suggest that the basic guide would be:
-you will not have alcohol with meals, except on particular festive occasions
-on those occasions, the Brothers will provide alcohol, but only enough for one or two per person.
-You will give Brother Chris a buck for each beer you had. It will not be an awkward pay-at-the-moment thing. Rather, using the honor system, you will give him the $ later.
Lastly, just let me urge you to know yourself. If you can enjoy a beer, fine, but if you tend to want more and more, avoid it. We do not want to be the Ugly Americans who come in like Frat Boys or Party Girls and spend in a night of drinking what it takes many Ghanaians a month to earn.
The Time to Meet at HCC
Folks, I just talked with Dr. Devetski and she says that all those leaving from South Bend MUST ARRIVE here at Holy Cross College at 2:30 pm sharp this SUNDAY. Be there or be, well, left behind! Sign off that you read this.
Just talked with Brother Paul
The Ghanaian Bros are super excited to receive you. He did say that sheets, pillows, and one towel provided, but that often students like to have one towel of their own.
Also, the currency exchange rate is a bit lower now, so our dollars have a bit less earning power. So whatever you planned on bringing for your own spending money, maybe add 10 - $20 if you want. And my comment is: yes, do buy some cool stuff, and get some Ghanaian clothes, but remember that Ghana is more than an exotic shopping mall.
Also, the currency exchange rate is a bit lower now, so our dollars have a bit less earning power. So whatever you planned on bringing for your own spending money, maybe add 10 - $20 if you want. And my comment is: yes, do buy some cool stuff, and get some Ghanaian clothes, but remember that Ghana is more than an exotic shopping mall.
Keep the Blogging Going
Okay now we're talking, folks are responding. Keep it up. Make sure all respond to each post below, beginning with The Final Countdown and moving up. On some you can just put your name. For ex, note how Tim H responded to the post below, which is a reflection from Jay Dunne, who was in your shoes and now will be on your trip in a different role. So read and acknowledge all the posts. ONE MORE THING: when you put your name, start using also your Ghanian name. You can even start that on this post here. (If you don't remember, go here). Believe me, getting into the mindset like this helps you prepare!
Am I prepared?
My name is Jay Dunne and I just recently graduated from Holy Cross this past May. I have traveled to Ghana twice in the past year and like many others I found it to be one of the most incredible experiences of my life. During my first trip, however, something happened inside of me that not all students can expect. I was united with my purpose for living. I realized during that trip that my purpose in life is to use my God-given talents and accrued knowledge to serve the marginalized peoples of our global society. It was this realization that propelled me into my senior year exceling in the classroom and working to bring social justice issues in the developing world to the attention of the Holy Cross campus through the Africa Faith and Justice Network and The Cross and Anchor Workshops and the development of the Holy Cross Service Corps.
I knew all along though that I needed to return to Ghana and in a little over a week I will be. This time I will be the inaugural Moreau Fellow for the Holy Cross Service Corps (HCSC). I will be spending one entire year working with the Holy Cross Brothers in Sekondi at the Home of Hope. I will be assisting the Brothers in teaching english and in whatever other duties they might need my assistance with.
After an extremely busy career at Holy Cross College I have graduated and come home to take some time off before I leave for Ghana. I did not realize that after so much work that taking a vacation would feel wrong, but it does. I am very much looking forward to returning to Ghana, but I cannot help but feel anxious. There will always be thoughts creeping into my head questioning whether or not I am prepared for such an evdeavor. I know though that there is a lot that can come out of my experience, least of all for me. It is my hope that a successful year of service in Ghana would open up a door to all Holy Cross students to devote themselves to a year of service with the Congregation of Holy Cross. It is this idea that I must remian focused on! For we shall truly be bringing about the kingdom of God by providing that kind of opportunity to our graduates.
I knew all along though that I needed to return to Ghana and in a little over a week I will be. This time I will be the inaugural Moreau Fellow for the Holy Cross Service Corps (HCSC). I will be spending one entire year working with the Holy Cross Brothers in Sekondi at the Home of Hope. I will be assisting the Brothers in teaching english and in whatever other duties they might need my assistance with.
After an extremely busy career at Holy Cross College I have graduated and come home to take some time off before I leave for Ghana. I did not realize that after so much work that taking a vacation would feel wrong, but it does. I am very much looking forward to returning to Ghana, but I cannot help but feel anxious. There will always be thoughts creeping into my head questioning whether or not I am prepared for such an evdeavor. I know though that there is a lot that can come out of my experience, least of all for me. It is my hope that a successful year of service in Ghana would open up a door to all Holy Cross students to devote themselves to a year of service with the Congregation of Holy Cross. It is this idea that I must remian focused on! For we shall truly be bringing about the kingdom of God by providing that kind of opportunity to our graduates.
Remember this is a Course!
Okay, make sure to read the post below on packing, and make sure to respond to EVERY post with questions, to simply share where you are at in trip prep, or you can even just sign off that you read the post.
I also want to remind you of the course requirements for the trip. It is titled Theo 390: Eyes of Faith. This may be the most impactful course of your life, so give it all you got! I already gave you the requirement sheet, and you can get another copy in Ghana, but the basics are this: 1/3 participation, 1/3 for a 7-10 page essay due September 14, and 1/3 for a public presentation (can be done in group of 3 or less). So as soon as you arrive, start thinking of topics to learn more about.
Also, Dr. Devetski and Bro. Chris will explain that you all are going to take turns each day doing a short report for this blog. This will be a way to get news of the group and all your adventures back to all your families. It also will cut down on email need. Remember you are going there to experience Africa, not Microsoft or Apple! So give out this blog address to all you know and tell them to check the blog each day for updates.
I also want to remind you of the course requirements for the trip. It is titled Theo 390: Eyes of Faith. This may be the most impactful course of your life, so give it all you got! I already gave you the requirement sheet, and you can get another copy in Ghana, but the basics are this: 1/3 participation, 1/3 for a 7-10 page essay due September 14, and 1/3 for a public presentation (can be done in group of 3 or less). So as soon as you arrive, start thinking of topics to learn more about.
Also, Dr. Devetski and Bro. Chris will explain that you all are going to take turns each day doing a short report for this blog. This will be a way to get news of the group and all your adventures back to all your families. It also will cut down on email need. Remember you are going there to experience Africa, not Microsoft or Apple! So give out this blog address to all you know and tell them to check the blog each day for updates.
Reminder of Flight Itinerary
Here again for you and your folks is the schedule. Make sure you have told Dr. Devetski is you are meeting the group at O'Hare (British Airways flies out of Terminal 5, so I would assume that is where you would be meeting) or whether you are on The Bus leaving HCC. Also, if you have any other questions about baggage, etc. go to the British Airways website.
July 22 Depart Chicago on British Airways # 298 8:20PM
July 23 Arrive London Heathrow 10:00AM
Depart London Heathrow on British Airways # 81 2:15PM
Arrive Accra, Ghana 8:10PM
Aug. 7 Depart Accra on British Airways # 78 10:35PM
Aug. 8 Arrive London Heathrow 6:40AM
Depart London Heathrow on British # 295 11:40AM
Arrive Chicago O’Hare 2:10PM
July 22 Depart Chicago on British Airways # 298 8:20PM
July 23 Arrive London Heathrow 10:00AM
Depart London Heathrow on British Airways # 81 2:15PM
Arrive Accra, Ghana 8:10PM
Aug. 7 Depart Accra on British Airways # 78 10:35PM
Aug. 8 Arrive London Heathrow 6:40AM
Depart London Heathrow on British # 295 11:40AM
Arrive Chicago O’Hare 2:10PM
Final Countdown
Okay, so this is the first of the final countdown posts. It goes back over some practical stuff. Much of what is below actually came from Bob Kloska, the founder of this course. And as far as packing, we will continue his time tested practice of limiting you to ONE suitcase and ONE backpack. In your response, post any additional ideas or questions.
Bring :
• Underwear and socks.
• One comfortable, but more dressy outfit (for more formal occasions).
• One pair of blue-jeans or casual long pants.
• 2 pairs of comfortable shoes; a good choice is sandals plus sneakers.
• 2 or 3 pairs of shorts.
• Comfortable casual shirts (t-shirts are okay, but no offensive slogans on them)
• lightweight hat or cap.
• a poncho or some type of rain jacket, esp for the day in the rainforest.
• Something light to sleep in, but which covers legs and arms for extra protection against mosquitoes. Rooms are not air-conditioned, but have excellent ceiling fans and a good breeze that time of year. Also, you will be sharing rooms so make sure you sleep in enough clothes to not make your roommate feel awkward.
• Some sort of travel money pouch to tuck into your pants or under your shirt. You will carry your airline tickets, passports, and money in these.
• Personal hygiene items (things that keep you clean, healthy and not too smelly)
Optional:
• A small portable backpack to carry cameras, food, water, etc. when we take day trips.
Don't Worry About:
• Towels. You do not need to bring towels, sheets, and pillows to Ghana.
• Toilet Paper. You do not need to bring toilet paper. Though many Ghanaians do not use it, it will be available where we are staying.
• Laundry Detergent. Part of the Ghana experience is to use their detergent!
Clothing Concerns
Remember, you will be in a hot and humid climate for two weeks. On most days, shorts, sandals, and casual shirts will be the norm. Things are a bit more formal in Ghana so when in Rome, do as the Romans -- we don't want to dress down too much. Also, any t-shirt you do bring should not have more than a few words on it. Carefully evaluate the writing on every single piece of clothing.
Remember, the people of Ghana have a stronger sense of modesty and decency. There should be no high or low-cut shirts or high-cut shorts/skirts. What seems harmless to you might be considered offensive over there, even if they won't say anything.
Food
I recommend that you bring some snack bars (I like PowerBars) for airports and those very rare occasions in Ghana when the food is less than appetizing.
Money
Do not bring much money. You won't need it. There isn't much to buy and you won't have much room to carry anything home. The more money you carry, the more you will have to worry about it. You probably shouldn't bring more than $200. You could probably get by on as little as $75. Also, travelers checks are not needed. We get Ghanaian money by exchanging U.S. dollars through the Brothers.
Cameras
Bring them if you wish. 35 mm film is available for purchase in Ghana. Video cameras may be a burden, but perhaps a couple in the group can bring them. Check on electrical conversion items needed.
Also remember: cameras will help us memorialzie the trip, but we are there not simply to get good pics for showing back home. We are there to EXPERIENCE. So there will be times when we will not bring any cameras, to ensure we see Ghana through our own eyes and not just a lens.
Bring :
• Underwear and socks.
• One comfortable, but more dressy outfit (for more formal occasions).
• One pair of blue-jeans or casual long pants.
• 2 pairs of comfortable shoes; a good choice is sandals plus sneakers.
• 2 or 3 pairs of shorts.
• Comfortable casual shirts (t-shirts are okay, but no offensive slogans on them)
• lightweight hat or cap.
• a poncho or some type of rain jacket, esp for the day in the rainforest.
• Something light to sleep in, but which covers legs and arms for extra protection against mosquitoes. Rooms are not air-conditioned, but have excellent ceiling fans and a good breeze that time of year. Also, you will be sharing rooms so make sure you sleep in enough clothes to not make your roommate feel awkward.
• Some sort of travel money pouch to tuck into your pants or under your shirt. You will carry your airline tickets, passports, and money in these.
• Personal hygiene items (things that keep you clean, healthy and not too smelly)
Optional:
• A small portable backpack to carry cameras, food, water, etc. when we take day trips.
Don't Worry About:
• Towels. You do not need to bring towels, sheets, and pillows to Ghana.
• Toilet Paper. You do not need to bring toilet paper. Though many Ghanaians do not use it, it will be available where we are staying.
• Laundry Detergent. Part of the Ghana experience is to use their detergent!
Clothing Concerns
Remember, you will be in a hot and humid climate for two weeks. On most days, shorts, sandals, and casual shirts will be the norm. Things are a bit more formal in Ghana so when in Rome, do as the Romans -- we don't want to dress down too much. Also, any t-shirt you do bring should not have more than a few words on it. Carefully evaluate the writing on every single piece of clothing.
Remember, the people of Ghana have a stronger sense of modesty and decency. There should be no high or low-cut shirts or high-cut shorts/skirts. What seems harmless to you might be considered offensive over there, even if they won't say anything.
Food
I recommend that you bring some snack bars (I like PowerBars) for airports and those very rare occasions in Ghana when the food is less than appetizing.
Money
Do not bring much money. You won't need it. There isn't much to buy and you won't have much room to carry anything home. The more money you carry, the more you will have to worry about it. You probably shouldn't bring more than $200. You could probably get by on as little as $75. Also, travelers checks are not needed. We get Ghanaian money by exchanging U.S. dollars through the Brothers.
Cameras
Bring them if you wish. 35 mm film is available for purchase in Ghana. Video cameras may be a burden, but perhaps a couple in the group can bring them. Check on electrical conversion items needed.
Also remember: cameras will help us memorialzie the trip, but we are there not simply to get good pics for showing back home. We are there to EXPERIENCE. So there will be times when we will not bring any cameras, to ensure we see Ghana through our own eyes and not just a lens.
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