Benjamin and Melanie's First Mumu

What is a mumu? Well, first of all, it is pronounced "moo-moo". :) And, it is a PNG feast! It is also a PNG tradition that dates back to who knows when.

In our Bible Study group, we have been able to get to know Ryan and Crystal. They are relatively new translators here in PNG. This poor couple has had every thing that could go wrong, go wrong these last couple of years....or so it seems. We have been praying for them the whole time we have lived in this country. We have supported them in our various roles and through friendship. This is the same village where Caleb hiked to to assess if the family could return. All that to say, that even though we have shared in their pain and suffering (on a much lesser degree then they have experienced), this was one of the first opportunities that we were able to share in their happiness.

Ryan and Crystal were able to bring two of their co-translators to Ukarumpa. While here, they were able to get a lot of work done. We were able to meet these guys and join in on their going home mumu.

Here are some pictures of the feast:

The whole morning was spent digging this hole and heating up the rocks.

Once the rocks were hot, they surrounded the area with wood and started to lay banana leaves on top.

Here is a picture of all the food that would eventually go into the mumu.

First, they piled on the things that take longer to cook- potatoes, kaukau, corn, etc).

Then, they piled on the meat. And, yes, we have eaten many a food from a mumu. My father works in food service, and he might gag just looking at all of the raw meat touching all of the vegetables. don't worry dad, it comes out fully cooked (I think!).

Next, they piled on the food that doesn't take as long to cook- carrots, cabbage, etc)

More banana leaves.

A tarp to seal it.

A hole was in the top of the tarp....then water was poured in to steam all the food:

Then, in a matter of minutes, the food is ready to eat!

They put out all the food, Ryan made a speech in the tok ples ("talk place"/language of the people he is working with) and several of us prayed for the translators.

Mel slept through the whole thing:

Caleb arrived once the food was ready. He had to work in the morning:

Ben enjoyed playing with all the kids and in the tree fort:

Here is a picture of Ryan, Crystal, their two kids Chloe and Caedmon and the two translators:

Again, it was really great to be a part of this celebration. Who knows, it would be REALLY great if we could travel back when they dedicate the New Testament in this language.