In Jodhpur

3/11/12

The Mehrangarh Fort at Jodhpur is an amazing structure with different parts added in each dynasty and period of its history. An impregnable fortress in times of war, it has never been captured by invading forces in all of its history in spite of long sieges and the like. Some pictures below cannot do justice to the beauty and grandeur but they capture a small glimpse. 

Sunday in Sommerville Memorial Church whose foundation stone was laid by Rev. Robert J. Drummond (my great grandfather, on a visit to India) was a wonderful and uplifting experience. I preached in English with the very competent Mr. Anil Ram as translator at my side. The lectionary texts for the day were Psalm 97, Exodus 34: 29-35, 2 Peter 1: 13- 19, and Mark 9: 2-10. As always I really enjoyed linking the texts together as well as referencing the evident fruit of the missionary work and subsequent Indian ministry in Jodhpur as elsewhere.  There are now 15 churches of various denominations in Jodhpur. This congregation is the largest with 350 families and approximately two thousand members - yes in India when counting families you count at least six to a family. As in Udaipur the congregation overflowed into a large seating area outside the main entrance. One highlight of my visit was being invited by one family back to their home to meet their mother, Mrs. E. H. Samuel, now 89, who remembers JWD and HMC very well. Her mind and memory were very vivid. It was specially wonderful to hear her describe Granny’s work with girls and women in the surrounding area of Jodhpur teaching sewing among other handicrafts, as well as her superintending the St Andrews Mission School where Mrs. Samuel also taught alongside Granny. 

 Sections and ramparts of Jodhpur fort build above each other

The Queen's carriage - not so much as her foot was to be visible when she stepped on and off

 Nearer section is coated and polished limestone giving almost a marble effect

A carriage for the king complete with bed inside - requiring six to carry - do you think he wanted to be hidden from view ?

 Grandeur and opulence at its height

Colorful balls on the ceiling mark a deliberate inclusion of a Christmas (read "Christian") theme

Beautiful stained glass makes for a soft and warm effect on the interior

Sommerville Memorial Church foundation stone

Pictured together with congregants and the assistant presbyter in charge Rev. Patrick Joseph

Discussing my relationship to RJD - garlanded at close of worship once again :)

 The family of Mrs E.H. Samuel - a family of teachers

 St. Andrew's Hall - formerly St. Andrew's Mission Primary School where Granny was superintendant

Front entrance to the Hall