Yesterday I attended a wedding at the Anglican Church here in Shyira. I did not know either the bride or groom but I knew many of the bride's friends here in this community. I was blessed to be allowed to attend and observe such a special day. I could not stop myself from taking as many pictures as possible without calling too much attention to myself. The bride and groom both walked together up to the church through the town along the steep hill. As they walked many of their friends, neighbors, and family members joined the two and the choirs that sang their way up to the church.
After the long walk the bridesmaids and groomsmen patted the couple's brow, fluffed up their clothes, and escorted them into the church. After many songs, dances, and claps from the guests and choirs, the couple was wed in a 2 or 3 hour ceremony. I left after about 2 hours. But it was a beautiful event to watch and I do not think I could thank the people enough for including me.
A note on Rwanda weddings: The couple does not show any joy or happiness, no smiling or laughter. They are to be serious and somewhat sad that they will be leaving their families. However after the pastor announced that they were husband and wife I saw a smile pass between the new married couple. Very sweet!!!
The pictures are beautiful!
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