me for a photo! It was amusing and heart-warming to receive such attention. Cameras just clicked
and clicked around us. Those who posed with me were jumping up and down! For a few memorable
minutes, I was an instant celebrity.
Soon it was time for the bride's entry. I was at her right side and another woman was at her left. The
groom met us halfway with his entourage - the two pastors, the best man, and an aunt. His mother
was late because she prepared the food and everything. The couple went up to the front together
while we followed behind. When we reached the front, the bride’s entourage went to the left side of
the church and was seated while the groom’s entourage went to the right side and was also seated.
All throughout the sermon, the bride and the groom stood facing each other about three meters
apart.
The sermon was very animated. It lasted more than an hour but everyone seemed to be listening
intently. Most of the attendees were seated on plastic chairs, some were standing at the side, while
others were looking in through the open windows. The church was very full of people but there was a
palpable silence and awe-filled reverence. Finally, the bride and groom were asked to say their vows
and only then were they allowed to come near each other and hold each other’s hands.
After the ceremony, the short pictorials followed. Then we were transported to the groom's
residence where the reception was held. This time, I rode with the bride and the groom. I was at the
front seat with the lady driver. When the bridal car stoppe [