This month’s question is:‘What are the benefits of an overseas trip organised by the Church of Scotland?’

Alison Boyes, twinning co-ordinator at Dunscore Church, Dumfries

“‘Tuli Pamo’ is Bemba for ‘We are Together’, our motto for the first 10 years of twinning between Dunscore, Moniaive and Glencairn churches and Lubuto UCZ in the Copperbelt Region of Zambia.

“In 2007, when CoS Faithshare grants allowed us to visit Lubuto for the first time, we truly felt that togetherness – singing, dancing and praying our way to a partnership which brought benefits to all our congregations. Living in the homes of our hosts, we learned more about each other’s cultures than we would ever have done as ordinary tourists. Back at home, we were able to share our experiences, not only at church, but with our local schools and youth groups, who also became involved in the twinning.

“The joyous style of Zambian worship affirmed and strengthened our faith. We were able to help our friends to build a school and sink a borehole. There were occasional visits, back and forwards, but ministers in Lubuto came and went, and communication could be sporadic.

As the 10 year anniversary approached, we felt that a visit might help to renew the twinning. Another Alison and I spent Easter Week 2019 in Lubuto and I cannot begin to describe here the welcome we received. Nationality, culture, language, and skin colour were all forgotten in the joy of reunion – we have a true faith family in Zambia, and a new motto – ‘Tuli Umo Muli Christu’ – We are One in Christ.”