1st week back

Dear Family and Friends,

Greetings from Adigrat. I arrived here by Monday afternoon. the travel was very long and exhausting this time around. when I got to St. Lucy's school the children ran out to greet me and chanted my name "Celine, Celine!!" I received more kisses and hugs than one can get in a lifetime. I am so welcomed here it is the most wonderful thing.

I greeted the teachers and nuns with warm hugs and kisses too.

It is a strange time here in Ethiopia. It is their election year and there is some turmoil in the country. There have been some fighting with shootings and bombs that have gone on. I've only heard shooting in Adigrat but I've heard of the bombs that are going on throughout the country. I've been told by the teachers, priests and nuns to not go out this weekend during the actual election. There might be much fighting going on depending on what party is elected into office. This is the kind of stuff you hear on the news. I've never thought I would live in an environment and experience it. It is a little scary for me right now. I stay close by the sisters and priest and I pray for all our lives daily. It is that scary. The sisters have had to lock the compound by dusk everyday. Abba Tesfay told me not to go out unless I am with one of the nuns or priests just because that will assure my safety. Even after the election, if its not a good one their could be more shooting and bombings for a time to come. The American Embassy will have to get me out of Ethiopia if that becomes the case. Please pray for me, for the children, the teachers, nuns, and priests and all that live here peacefully in Ethiopia.

While I do go out, it doesn't seem bad actually normal but at night I've heard the gun fire and so I know it's going on.

On the lighter side of things my flute class is absolutely excellent. I can't believe how much they have improved in their playing. Yesterday I gave them new music and they sight read it without one mistake. I was so impressed. I brought a baton and began conducting class with Seyoum, Johannes, and Abel so they can continue to direct the flute class.

Due to the time of year only the top students of the flute class can stay in it. This is becuase some of the children are not doing well getting prepared for exams. So currently I only have about 20 students. But this is nice and very relaxing for me to teach. I'm not so tired from all the students I have. The others will come back after their exams and hopefully if all goes peacefully in Ethiopia I can teach them throughout the summer.

Also because everything that is going on, in July I cannot live on my own in town. So I have to go on the retreat with the sisters. This is going to be a challenge for me not to talk for eight days but will probably be a good soul cleanser. So Therese, be happy, I'm sacrificing!!! I know you're super happy to read this.

I've got to go. My escort is waiting on me and I've made him wait a long time as I use the internet in the internet cafe. I love all of you very much. I send everyone big kisses and hugs.

Love to all and God Bless,

Celine