Central Mission Team

2011-10-28T07:34:00.002-05:00

Goodbye Uganda

2011-10-28T07:33:00.000-05:00

It is always bitter sweet when we get to this portion of the trip. We love being here and it becomes our year long mission to return and be a part of what God is doing in Uganda. But after two weeks some are very ready to get home while others say they could stand to be here a few more weeks. We do miss our loved ones in the states and as it comes each visit, it is time to say good bye. Goodbye to our lovely host Colleen and her wonder home. Goodbye to our ever watchful eyes of our drivers Sunday, and Moses who take such good care of us. Goodbye to the birds singing us a wonderful morning song. Goodbye to the people who’s love and kindness is overwhelming and heart breaking. Goodbye to Uganda the land that holds many American hearts in its loving arms.

I am always to torn to leave. I love the people here so much that it breaks my heart to leave. But I also love my family to much to stay. I do miss my husband kids and grandkids so I will leave my part of my heart in Uganda and return home to them. I will start working on my next journey back to Uganda as soon as I return home. Thank you to our church family for allowing us the privilege to come and serve in your place. Thank you to my family for allowing me to be gone so I can enjoy my time here. Love to all Kimberly

Wow two weeks. These two weeks has gone by so fast. We have done many things in the Lord. Going to the village and seeing their culture and love and hunger they have to grow in the Lord was so awesome. The kids are so fun to hang out with and love. These people have nothing but they have everything, they have Jesus, Joy, Happiness!!! I would hope that everyone in their life time would get a chance to come here. It is a humbling experience and really shows us how blessed we really are. Let us not hold our blessing but sow. This last week I had a chance to work in a married’s seminar and was great to see how much work God is working in their marriages. We’ll see you soon. Doug

Carl says, today is departure day, but I am sad to leave Uganda, my second home, and it's wonderful people!

Uganda...Africa...WOW!! I don't even have words to describe the experience. It's been eye opening and life changing. NEVER take anything for granted. I will miss the generosity and openness of the people in Kabwangasi village. Their sharing all they have when they have nothing at all. It reminds me of the woman in the bible who gave all she had as a tithe at church to honor God. These people gave to us to honor the work we were doing FOR God. Amazing! Absolutely amazing!! While I am glad to be returning home as I miss some very special people, my heart will always have a special place for Uganda...Bobbie

Sorry to say goodbye, but had a great experience as usual. Love the people but the kids stole my heart again and again. Words cannot express the love I have for the people and land of Uganda, Africa. God Bless the people of Uganda in a great way. My love Genda

It is always bittersweet when it is time to leave. In some respects the time has passed quickly as some projects were left incomplete. But the time away from loved ones has seemed long. The hardships, discomforts and inconveniences we faced were minor compared those who live here. We saw new places and met new people all of which will share that special place in my heart with all my other Uganda memories. Jerry

It's been an awesome 2 weeks that went by too fast. Laying brick for the new Church is always rewarding to me because my dad was a brick layer when he was alive. Working on the new kitchen that's in memory of Tom Moffit with the limited tools that we had was a challenge. Making the desks & seeing them being used was great. Sorry we did not get more made, but that's Africa. The very best part of my trip was seeing the children my wife & I sponsor. This has been another great & rewarding trip. Scott

The time has came for us to leave and to head home, have mixed feeling want to stay a little longer but want to came home and see my family and friends that I love and miss so much, this has been a great 2 weeks and so much fun, got to send a day with Annie and that was so fun, can't wait till next year hope to spend my time with them, ok every one get ready for the story and the things we can do here, I have ideal to share. Today is going to be good can't wait to see the kid!!!!!!! Janelle

Wow! Saying goodbye to family is so difficult. And the people here have truly touched our hearts and treated us as family. We have been so blessed with the opportunity to help build, not only buildings, but help to build and change lives. From playing with the children to teaching couples on trust and love languages and teaching pastors about budgeting, SHAPE, community and prayer. To see their faces and hear their questions with such interest and eagerness to learn so they can be able to pass these teachings on was truly the biggest blessing of all. The opportunities we have had and the villages with have visited, the tasks we have completed, the games, the teachings, etc are too many to mention them all. We are grateful to Coleen and Tim and their staff for their hospitality. It is not easy to have your life interrupted. They all seem to take it in stride. To Sandi (pronounced Sunday) and Moses our drivers, to Christine and Lancy our cooks, we give our blessings and a special gratitude for putting up with our craziness. We love UGANDA and will miss them, but we are also eager to see our friends and family. Can't wait for the long plane ride home. We love you all!!!! Thank You CCC and friends for the opportunity! Terry and Norma Allred

This has been my 4th mission trip and each gets better and better. This time my goal was to build 200 school desks. We brought the saw, nail guns, nails, screws, screw guns, saw blades etc. and figured as soon as we get there we will start the production line. Well the air compressor didn't work soooo shoping we go and the rain slowed us also. The lumber is ship to us in small quantities and arrives soon, which means sometime today or tomorrow, or maybe even the next day. Well this is our last day here and we have completed a total of 29 desks and delivered 10 into a school so far. The really good thing we have taught several people here how to use the nail guns, which they had never seen before and were duly impressed with the air hose connections and how they worked. So the desk production can go on without our help. This has been a very rewarding and fruitful mission. Will see you all soon. Delbert Goertz

This has been my 3rd year to come to Uganda and it has been as much or more fun than my first trip. Paster John thank you for the sermon on meek ant weak!! Uganda will continue to sing The Gospel Fuzzies. God has been so good an as always faithful!! Blessing to you all. See you soon. Hannah Robinson

God bless we love you signing off from Uganda

Thursday, October 27

2011-10-27T11:31:00.002-05:00

We have had another fast and furious two days Wed and Thurs. We split the team; as some have ventured into wildlife reserves to experience some of the incredible wildlife and natural beauty of Africa (Murchison Falls, hiking, cruising the nile, etc.) The remaining team members have continued to teach, build, repair and serve at Murchison Bay and Kasubi Schools.

It has been so touching to see so many of the Children of Promise sponsored by Central Community Church members and in particular those on the team. Carl and Betty's Angel led us in final worship and praise at Murchison Bay. And the kind of rousing youth-led service we've come to treasure here in Uganda. Larry and Cheri Clark's Allen has become quite the handsome young man and just like Larry, very onry. As hard as it is to imagine, Allen managed to add dance steps to the worship celebration and his contagious smile had many of us laughing.

We have also been Blessed to lead a couple of days of a marriage conferences and lead some sessions with area Pastors all day on Thursday. Many of our men have been painting, fencing, building and many of our team's women have led huge VBS Tues, Wed and Thurs--I don't know how they keep up the enthusiasm.

God has provided our strength and encouragement as we have been so end-to-end this trip and we are told again and again and again by our brothers and sisters in Uganda; please express to the people of Central Community Church and Pastor John--Thank you for loving God enough to love the people of Uganda. They pray for us continually and truly love you.
With tears in my eyes again today; we leave these villages and job sites unbelievable humbled by what God is doing through the members of Central Community Church for our group of Christian sisters and brothers in Uganda--We Are Truly Blessed! Terry

Wednesday October 26th

2011-10-27T09:55:00.002-05:00

Team safari has had a great time we began our journey at 530 am wed we were picked up before dawn and started the five hour drive to where the animals natural habitat is. We arrived at the boat launch and took the ride up the Nile to see the magnificent falls. After two hours we reached the base of the falls How mighty the water is, as it cascades down the side of earth it has chipped away through the years. Then the team hiked up to the top. Now that is a wonderful adventure itself. The rain showers that we thought would keep us from going to the top stopped right in time. We were able to stay in a new camp site Sambyia river lodge. Very beautiful. Dinner was served by candle light and we had electricity when we woke at 530 am. Breakfast was served to us before we left in style. We took our safari and saw elephants, graffes, etc... Rained mist most of the way but finally got to pop the top and sit on the roof of the van. Now off to see the rinos and back to Kampala. We are all well and in great spirits.

Marriage Session

2011-10-25T15:15:00.005-05:00

Today half of the team stayed at the Stevensons and made desks (at 11 pm still waiting for the lumber to be delivered). So that team pretty much waited today. The other half went to an orphanage called Murchicen Bay. Some worked with youth about purity, some with small kids playing games, and the rest worked with young marrieds and singles about love languages, trust, and God honoring ways to be better husbands and wives. We also played some team building games with the couples which went splendedly. they all were running around trying to work together what a fun experience. But then somehow Kansas winds and rain caught up to us. We had a good Kansas storm. And since we were in a big party type tent everyone held onto the tent just to keep it on the ground. It was intense for a while, but once it calmed down we just continued on. The people were so very receptive of the lessons and truely want better marriages and lives. A great day. Heavy bumper to bumper traffic on the way across Kampala and made it safely back to base camp. Supper was wonderful so much so that I think everyone gained weight today. We hope everyone at home is well we are all healthy and having a great time sharing Gods love.

Children

2011-10-24T15:29:00.005-05:00

The team went into Kampala today to shop for Children of promise gifts. Wow what an experience. Wall to wall shops of clothing of all sorts and in what can only be described as a huge three and four story building/ warehouse where hundreds of owner operated businesses try to yek out a daily wage to feed their families. Some of us got to meet with our children with them seeing their sponsors getting great big smiles and running to their open arms with huge hugs. NO ONE CAN EVER SAY WE ARE NOT MAKING A DIFFERENCE BY SUPPORTING THESE KIDS.
The sad part of the day was sitting in traffic and having the street children come up to the van and ask for money for food. I am not talking about teenagers but children who looked to be around the age of 5 or 6. If only they had sponsors then they might have a place to live and sleep and be loved and care for. I can not even imagine my children at that age and now my grandchildren ever living in such conditions.
Hundreds of orphaned children roam the streets of Uganda’s capital. Most have drifted in from rural areas – mainly northern Uganda, a region blighted by decades of civil war. Some are former child soldiers and the rest come from nearby slum areas following family breakdown – through HIV/AIDS, poverty and domestic violence. Almost all the children on the streets are using drugs and, over time, most boys resort to theft and many girls become prostitutes.The biggest fear for every street child is alienation – having nowhere to belong, no friends, no family.
Pray that God will keep providing for the project’s needs as it grows and reaches out to the huge numbers of children on Kampala’s streets. Issues facing children in Uganda
Malaria, respiratory infections and diarrhea are the main causes of under-5 mortality. Approximately 20,000 babies are infected by HIV annually through mother-to-child transmission.
Nearly half of the estimated 2 million orphans are orphaned due to AIDS, with the total expected to rise to 3.5 million by 2010.
Net primary school attendance has risen to 87 percent.
Children and women comprise 80 percent of the 1.4 million people forced to flee their homes due to conflict. They live in more than 200 camps, with limited services.
The LRA has abducted more than 25,000 children since 1986.
In the conflict-affected districts, around 40,000 unaccompanied children the ‘night commuters walk every night from their homes in outlying villages to urban centers, in search of protection from the threat of LRA abductions and attacks

Breaks your heart you too can help one child at a time sponsor a child

Kabwangasi Church Dedication

2011-10-24T08:24:00.002-05:00

Thursday and Friday was a flurry of work and workers as the team pushed to finish the buildings for Sunday's Church building dedication. God held the rains off to overnights and we were able to bring it to near completion by Friday night. Several of the Kabwangasi Church members worked Saturday and even well into the night Saturday night on some finishing touches. But, in God's timing; we had the Church building dedication on Sunday morning.

The 4 hour service was a Praise and testimony to God's grace and providence. And the thanks from the Kabwangasi Church members to the people of Central Community Church in Wichita was truly humbling. Jerry led our team through a series of introductions, gift giving, praise and thanks, Kimberly delivered a great sermon on being "...the salt of the world..." and the singing--well, you know about the singing.

We prayed for a service honoring God and HE led us in the praise and worship. We were asked again and again to tell Pastor John and the people of Central Community Church, Wichita, Kansas how thankful they are to us. We were here in body and we are all here in Spirit.

We traveled back to Kampala on Sunday night and are working Monday, building desks and meeting with some of the sponsored Children of Promise. By the way, the Senior Pastor at the new Kabangasi Church was once a sponsored Children of Promise child; God IS working through this ministry to make a difference. We will now move to more teaching this week with a marriage conference, a men's conference and more women's groups. Please continue to pray for our continued health and rest and that HE will be glorified in all we do. Terry

2011-10-19T09:17:00.002-05:00

COPS Uganda, bad boys, bad boys, what you gonna do……

We went to get supplies in town this morning as we sat there a van/taxi drove up in front of a row of boda bodas (mini bikes) out of the van jumped about ten police officers and took the motorbikes from the drivers keep in mind AKA 47 type machine gun as well. Come to find out the bodas were parking there illegally and the police were taking them to the courthouse so the drivers will come pay the fine. Man that’s harsh, how would you feel If we had police like that?

...The Women's ministry and Children's programs are off and running. The Church has half the roof and front steps done. Stage is being created and is looking great. All team members are well and working hard in all areas. Teamwork and cooperation are the words of the day. It’s hot here & we are really drinking a lot of water.

The hostel (sleeping quarters) is beautiful, we all are sharing rooms, have cold water to bathe in, toilets in the rooms (a toilet seat would be a nice added touch) but we are not complaining We do seem to have evening visitors, like spiders as big as the palm of a man’s hand , snails, frogs, and gecko’s.

The people are beautiful and loving. This is a small village we had about 20 women and about 50 kids so far. The men are all working on the church. Women of this church are always put first. Great Teamwork. All is well ...

2011-10-19T08:41:00.004-05:00

Tuesday, October 18, 2011

The day began like any other when you are about to journey to an African village and spend five days.

We had breakfast and were told to be ready by 10am. Ok I know I know the best laid plans of mice and men....

I think it was closer to noon. Hey, when in Uganda you go with the flow.

So off we go on what should be a five hour drive. We made it out of Kampala when the calls started coming advising the other van had broken down. So they waited for a new vehicle to come get them and the other two groups moved ahead. Then Colleen’s phone wouldn't work. And the third groups van door wouldn't shut.

With all of the things going against our journey I believe we have satan scared shaking in his boots. He is fearful that we are destined to do great things here and is pulling out all the stops. He forgets God is the one in control and the Holy Spirit is in this place giving us all the strength to make this mission a success.

The sweet smell of rain

2011-10-17T23:00:00.001-05:00

We awoke this morning to a very powerful rain storm. So when I say rain I do not mean a light spring shower but rather buckets of rain in just a few minutes of time. You say ok it is raining, it is after all the rainy season and it should be expected. But it is not the rain that is intriguing…. it is what you hear amongst the rain…within the rain. The birds never stopped singing. For a short period of time the sound of the rain hitting the roof made their songs weaker, but as mighty as the rain tried to be it did not silence them. Their hearts continued to break through the over powering force that would normally drive any living creature to find safety. The Ugandan’s are so much like the birds in the storm. This world has given them some mighty storms but they continue to shine through them. They continue to be a very proud but humble nation. They face more storms in a month than we in the western world might face in a few years maybe a lifetime. Should we take note that even though we feel so many pressures in our daily lives, feeling as though the rain will consume us at any time, we need to remember to sing in the rain and let God handle the storms in our lives, as He is the only one that can get us through the storms. Good morning Uganda it is going to be a great day.

2011-10-17T15:09:00.002-05:00

SOME DAYS YOU FEEL LIKE A MILLION BUCKS................IN UGANDA YOU CAN ACTUALLY BE A BILLONAIRE

(in Shillings) :)

Monday

2011-10-17T14:43:00.005-05:00

Today was a very quite restful day.

While eatting dinner we had a guest in the dining room

Janelle received her luggage

The desk team got the jig set up, assembly line created and a few desks ready to go. Now those are some proud men right there

Tomorrow we head out to the villiage. Kabwangasi to be exact. This will be a long 5 hour journey to go just about 100 miles or so. We will be staying in a villa which equates to a bed and western toilets YEA! Hopefully that also means within the building itself and not out back. This villiage has three different languages so translation may be a challenge. We will be working on a church, a school, and a special project yet to be decided maybe like a kitchen for the school so that they can make food easier for the 100 or so children tht attend there. the church building needs doors, windows, and flooring work done as well. We will be working with women, men, and children learning about leardership, colors of faith, and prayer. The team is very excited to get out and explore this great land we call Uganda. Our journey will begin around 10am as we pile into vans and head out. We will be there Tues through Sun when we will dedicate the church building. We will be heading back to Kampala Sunday afternoon. There is no internet there so we will be texting shorter messages back to the church for them to add and let everyone know how we are getting along. We are all still well and in very good spirits please keep the prayers coming we can feel them all the way over here. Isnt God amazing.... 11 pm here so off to bed love and kisses to all our family and friends.

Good morning Uganda

2011-10-17T08:31:00.004-05:00

Waking up in God's country what more can one ask for? As the sun began to peek out waking the wonderful sounds of Uganda, the missionary's began their first day on a journey that is to be a great adventure. The foreign sounds coming in the windows from birds that do not just chirp they sequel and whoop in ways that let you know you are not in Kansas anymore. There is a soft singing coming from downstairs where you can hear the cooks getting breakfast prepared. One by one the weary travelers begin to emerge and the house comes to life. Laughter and loud voices fill the air. They are up and ready to face the day. Some get busy putting into action the plans that have been thought out and rewritten for months and months. Others fight the urge to fall into a much needed slumber to regain strength the long journey took from their tired bodies.

Happy Happy faces

2011-10-17T08:10:00.003-05:00

And this is how you are informed your luggage is lost - check flip chart

Here we are after 24 hours of flying ready to not be on a plane for at least two weeks.

Here we are before we left the church

We are home.

2011-10-16T17:33:00.001-05:00

Driving up to the gates of the Stevenson’s and walking into the big house is like coming home again. We are always so welcome and wanted it makes us ask why do we ever leave. Ok OK we know why Uganda and the Stevenson’s can only take so much from the teams from Kansas. We all are intact and well a little tired and ready to recoop from the long trip. We ended up here without three of our totes. Or should I say Janelle’s personal suit case her tote and the saw. They have at least located them and all three should arrive Monday night or Tuesday night. We have split up the team as to sleeping quarters and seems like everyone will settle down quickly tonight. It is very hard to stop and take a breath after waiting an entire year to be back here. Some of us just want to get started and nit waste anytime sleeping. Ahhhh but in order to be able to function tomorrow I guess we will say good night. Sweet dreams to all or family and friends. We love you.

And our journey begins

2011-10-16T17:32:00.000-05:00

Wow as many times as we have made this journey we tend to forget the energy zapping flights. We started out in Wichita Sat 10 am. You should have seen us loud, crazy, excited. The energy was all around us. We arrived at the airport to have the Delta agent say I am not finding your reservations in our system. OH BOY a reminder of years past. After 2 hours trying to get everyone boarding passes we were off to go through security at the time the plane was boarding. Well God was with us at the expense of a bird. Our flight was delayed due to the flight coming in had hint a bird. So they were cleaning him off of the windshield. We had the opportunity to watch some of our luggage being loaded on the plane and then had the humor of Genda’s luggage falling off the belt 15 feet to the ground. She was not to happy. Then after we were all on board they announced the cargo bay was completely full and they were trying to rearrange luggage to make everything fit. So we were late leaving by an hour to Atlanta. Our connections this year were really close so we didn’t have any time to spare. We deplaned in Atlanta to find our next flight was also delayed on to Amsterdam. So that gave us a little time to make a few last minute phone calls, emails ect..and get our last bite of American foods. HAHA .We boarded our flight to Amsterdam with the airlines full intention to make a quick departure to make up for the delay. But then we sat on the plane for at least 30 more minutes doors closed waiting for them to get baggage on, then another 30 mins to get cleared for take-off. The flight was smooth and trouble free, until they announced we were arriving a couple hours late and we only had two hours to spare to begin with. So as we departed the plane we raced to our next fight to Entebbe to find them already boarding. No time to stop for anything. We were on we made it. Doors closed and they once again said we were leaving immediately. Ha stories they really like to tell stories. We sat and watched as they dropped one of the cargo boxes and the humorous antics to try to get it uprighted. Finally we were about to take off when we learned we were not going to Entebbe but making a pit stop in Kigali, Rwanda. The team has at this point taken to pillow fights in the cabin along with our blood shot eyes and clothes we have been wearing for well over 24 hours. We smell really pretty right now. I feel sorry for those people joining us on this leg of the journey. A new experience we just got to sit on the plane for an hour and wait for other passengers to board. Ok after almost on stop flying of 16 hours with a short walk from one plane to another in Amsterdam it was nice to just be able to get up a move for a few minutes. Another hour flight and Uganda watch out here comes the pink shirt swat team.

2011 Team 2 Is Ready

2011-10-15T11:51:00.016-05:00

Packing for a trip always takes some planning - but it's especially challenging when... there are 12 people involved... 15 extra totes need to be filled without exceeding the 50 lb limit... and the trip is over 8,000 miles away. Tuesday night before today's departure, Team 2 met to organize, pack, weigh and tag all the supplies headed for Uganda.

With that task completed, the team was ready to embark on their adventure today. An airplane carrying an excited group should be taxiing down the runway within minutes of this post on the first leg of the flight to Kampala, Uganda Africa. We will be anxiously awaiting news of the unfolding of God's plan for this team and the people they meet in Uganda.

Team's last thoughts before leaving...

2011-07-15T05:45:00.014-05:00

On my journey to Uganda, Africa i have had the most life changing experience here. The people are wonderful.. I LOVE AFRICA!!!(: -Emily Ann Wolf(:

This is the most wonderful journey I've ever experienced in my entire life besides having my daughter, Camron. People here are just so awesome, enough for me want to come back in near future (:
-Lisa Ann Wullschleger

When Jesus said the fields are ready for harvest but the workers are few...I think of Uganda. The people here are HUNGRY for the Word. They're HUNGRY to be remembered and loved. They need hope...the hope offered through the living Word of the Lord. I leave thinking we didn't do enough, but grateful for the work we did accomplish. Lives were changed, both here and on our team. Awesome! --Sherry L. Smith

This was a life changing experience! I'm coming back to Uganda someday in the near future. The people are so friendly and the kids are so joyful. :)
-Dalima Kapten

Words are not enough to express the joy I have felt these past two weeks. I LOVE Uganda and the people here! I am so thankful for the experiences I have had here, for the people who helped sponsor me to come, for our church who is dedicated to sending us, my wonderful husband who encouraged me to go (thanks Fred) and to God who directed my pathway right here to Uganda. I am blessed! ---- Valerie Snyder

What a trip :o) No words can express how wonderful this place is. How LOVING the people are. We will not ever wash off Uganda and wouldn't want to. See you again soon XOX
-Joni Baskerville

14 days is never enough beautiful Uganda.This place will always have a big place in my heart. The people you meet and the things you see are truly life changing. Thanks to all my sponsors and loved one that share my love for missions. -Kirsten Fisher

This trip has changed me soo much, my faith has grown stronger within 2 weeks. all i can say is that you can take me out of Uganda but you cant take Uganda out of my heart, it is here to stay. my second home is here, i love the people here and everything about it im so thankful God let me come on this missions trip. i love you all XOXOXOX
-Katie Baskerville

Words cant describe how amazing this trip has been. Seeing Uganda and its people through Gods eyes has changed me inside. I love this place and hope to come back and bring my boys so that they might experience this place as well.
--Janelle Ragland

Not just this place that changed my life but the people! So much love and joy the people of Uganda, Africa bring. When you come its impossible not to fall in love with country. I love Africa! - Madison Johanning

Wow..thats pretty much all i can say about this trip. It has been an amazing trip and i will never forget it!-Jake Lankutis

Words cannot describe what is going on here. I just wish that more people in America and other countries will come to celebrate what God has done in these people's lives. God works with these people and I wish he would do the same for us. - Isaac Smith

Thankful for the experience. The team was great. The people were warm and welcoming. We. Are. Blessed! Uganda, we miss you already! - greg

I was so proud of Central Community Church for the support and prayers from home. The team represented the congregation wonderfully and we saw what the Lord has done with the churches we built over the past years. Great job CCC! Grant Fisher

Little Nellie

2011-07-14T15:55:00.004-05:00

Do you know this girl? She lives in Mutungo, Uganda. Her clothes are torn. Her shoes are completely worn out but still being used. She loves to hold hands, cuddle, and snuggle, and even fell asleep on my (Sherry) lap while I lovingly rocked her during a Bible study time with the women in the church. She is one of four children to a mother who is HIV positive. The father is deceased, also from HIV. These children live with their mother in a one-room shack. This little girl's name is Nellie...and she is in need. She's in need of a sponsor.

Sponsorship is this: A $25/month payment which will cover her educational school fees, school uniform, medical care, shoes, food, and a safe place to learn the truths about Jesus. The entire $25 you give completely cares for this child. There are no administrative fees paid from this sponsorship.

The testimonies from mothers who have sponsored children are real tear-jerkers. This is not a movie...it's the reality of poverty, disease, and the hope that Jesus offers.

Someone reading this needs to invite Nellie to be a part of their life...a part of their family. You may not be able to be here physically to love on Nellie, but you can do more. You can provide what she needs to survive in the slums. You offer her hope.

And if you're really feeling generous (I can't help myself!)...you could offer to sponsor all four children in this very needy family. You could make this girl smile again!

Our Last Full Day: Kasubi and Bukasa

2011-07-14T12:37:00.007-05:00

We were out the door by 9 a.m. this morning and drove to Kasubi for pastor training, fun with the children, and TAPP visits in the Nabulagala village. A few members of our team were also able to meet with their Children of Promise. We finished by having lunch on the school premises. We were served goat, ugali (maize bread) rice, beans, cooked greens, matooke (mashed banana), squash, and of course a bottle of soda. We then drove to Bukasa for more of the same.

The Bukasa area was so beautiful, with dramatic Lake Victoria views. All afternoon we played minute-to-win-it games like we play in our own children's church back at CCC. All the games we had prepared and hadn't used yet were put to action with pure joy and laughter, and a bit of curiosity. Grant had a first: he participated in a women's Bible study and secretly loved it. Some got a tour of the Heritage International school, while others went on more TAPP visits. The fellowship together ended with a beautiful performance by the school children.

We have now ended our last night in Uganda. Everyone is so tired but feeling incredibly blessed to have been a part of this amazing African journey.

We'll each write a few lasting thoughts tomorrow before departing for the airport. Stay tuned.

Good night.

Mutungo, Nansana, and our Safari Friends!

2011-07-14T00:09:00.008-05:00

What a busy day we had yesterday! The group that stayed in Kampala left in the late morning to go deep into the hills to visit a new development called "Nansana". It is a new development organized by the former Vice President of Uganda, who has been a strong advocate for the Stevensons here in Uganda. We toured the houses, which are very westernized, the fish ponds, and talked with the organizers about their vision to build a Church, school, and community center for adult learning. Afterwards, we sat in the Vice President's office, hoping to meet and greet him officially. However, he was caught up in a meeting and couldn't come to meet so after a cold soda, and enjoying the air conditioned office, we departed for lunch at the compound.

After a quick bit of lunch, we departed again and drove to Mutungo, the location of Central Community Church's very first church. Upon being introduced to the TAPP women who had arrived for Praise and Worship, Prayer, Bible Study, and Testimony our TAPP leader and translator, Linda, introduced this church to us as the "first born"...the first church that was born from the dedication and assistance of Central Community Church. It was truly an honor to be in that church with this women who absolutely LOVE CCC and its people. CCC has changed lives - for these women, their children, and their eternal future by investing in their lives and the lives of their children.

We left there for home. Ate a delicious dinner. Welcomed our Safari friends home. Swapped stories. Had evening devotions. Talked, Laughed, Shared.

It was wonderful!

Heritage School, Braids, and Shopping

2011-07-12T13:29:00.005-05:00

Today started out with half of our team leaving at 6 a.m. for an African Safari. The guide of the Safari was very excited as he told Colleen he saw 4 lions yesterday and was hoping to find them again today for our visitors. So cool! They departed the compound in the dark around 6:15 a.m. while Colleen and Sherry went back to bed!

Breakfast was at 8:30. Four of our team members went with Sunde, Moses, Tim and sons, Jesse and Logan, to the Heritage School for some hard labor: sanding door frames and doors, then revarnishing. The entire team met up at a nearby shopping center to buy a few staples for the house, and had coffee and tea at a coffee shop, then returned home to a delicious dinner of beef stroganoff, mashed potatoes, corn and peas, an incredibly delicious egg plant mash, fresh fruit salad, and banana cake. Oh so good!

But now it's time for our nightly devotions, then we'll talk, laugh, and look through TAPP items for purchase...then off to bed for another restful nights sleep.

We just can't believe we leave in just 3 days. Sigh.

The Soweto

2011-07-11T23:08:00.001-05:00

Yesterday we we went to the slums. They call it the Soweto. This was the first time for all of us, but not the first time for the people we met there.

Our trip there began with a slight delay as there was a strike in the city by the taxi drivers. They were peacefully protesting the cost of petrol...3,650 shillings per litre...the equivalent price in dollars (roughly): $5.50/gallon. There are taxis all over the place with as many as 20 people in each vehicle. Taxis, people walking, bicycles, and motorcycles are everywhere!

We drove through Kampala to the slums, parked, and walked to the Kisugu Church of God built in the midst of extreme poverty. Imagine: open sewers, swarms of people (mostly children), flies, burning trash, dirt, heat, laundry drying on clothes lines, and utter sadness. Most of the people have no shoes. Their clothes are torn, beyond mending. There are few smiles. But God has not forgotten them. We were on a mission!

At the church, we met Pastor Charles, and David - the man in charge of the TAPP ministry in that area. Also along were two other pastors from other Church of God churches, two men from the Congo who could not even speak the language, and a few church members. We waited for all to appear. Divided into groups of 5 or 6 with a mix of all ages and ethnicity. Sang a few songs. Prayed. Then we left to share Jesus with the people in this community, deciding to report back in one hour.

Upon returning to the church some time later, each group shared the many success stories: Many had accepted Christ as their Savior - including the two named Eric and Joseph who are pictured with Katie; many more promising to come to church on Sunday. It was our first, and hopefully not our last, time for door-to-door evangelism and there was great celebration in heaven yesterday (Luke 15:10). The pastor was given these new believers names and contact information so he can make a follow-up contact later. Wow!

Afterwards we walked back through the slums, piled into the van, and departed for the compound. Upon arrival, some women went to the salon to get their hair braided, while the others took showers, then we all ate a delicious dinner of roasted chicken, roasted vegetables, salads, and bread. We had our nighly devotions, lost power twice, killed a flying cockroach, watched Joni play Chinese Jumprope, talked, laughed, and went to bed exhausted.

Another day in Kampala.

School for the Deaf and Blind

2011-07-11T13:06:00.005-05:00

From Lisa: Janelle, Grant and I went to School for the Deaf and Blind with Sunday, who works for the Stevensons, and his cousin is deaf. We all had a very wonderful day! Those kids were so funny, loving and so curious. They have taught us real neat African Sign Language! We met a young American woman named Sarah. She told Sunday that the school teaches sign language and Sunday helped get her a job so she can stay in Uganda to work with deaf kids.

Sunday will be taking classes at his cousin school so he can communicate with his Cousin and teach his family sign too!! How Good is God?? Helped two different people in one day! God is AWESOME!!

Sunday at Nampunge

2011-07-10T15:14:00.008-05:00

Today was a most excellent Sunday. We arrived at the Nampunge church just after 11:00 a.m. (traffic was pretty bad) and we dismissed just after 2 p.m. There were many songs of praise today, and more introductions. Greg led communion for 86 people, preached Daniel 1 with the most excellent Edrin as a translator, and had 10 babies brought up for a Baby Dedication. Many youth gave testimonies, including two of our own (Kirsten and Isaac), we sang two songs, and again met many many wonderful believers in Christ! Valerie and others taught the little kids Bible stories, sang songs, and provided many CCC Journey Kids T-shirts to these little ones. A beautiful sight to see!

After the service, we were given a tour of the high school and medical clinic. There are 601 kids in the high school and more than 300 primary school children. During this tour we saw classrooms containing just a few benches and chalk boards in great need of repair. There is a boys dorm housing 40 boys on bunk beds, and 55 girls in a small girls dorm in bunk beds three-up. All the other children walk to school.

As we walked the grounds, many children ran up to us. They just wanted hugs and attention. One little girl in particular would not let go of me (Sherry). Her name is Jane (pictured in previous blog) and she is in great need of a sponsor. I told the pastor I would find her a sponsor within 2 weeks - so who knows, you might be the one to bless this little one and make an eternal difference in her life! This little girl as well as hundreds of others need of the most basic necessities, but they also need to have hope. They need to know that God has not forgotten them.

Very touching as well was watching Valerie with her sponsored child, Rachael, who rarely left Val's lap. Also, Janelle with her sponsored boy, Joseph. What a cutie!!!! During the service this morning four children were brought up on stage. These four siblings are sponsored by Scott Coon. As we prayed for the children, we also stretched out our hands towards them and prayed for our own friend, Scott.

After the service and the tour, we had a light lunch (which included the goats we received from Businywa) and left to return to the compound where we had a little bit of down time before leaving for an Ethiopian restaurant downtown Kampala. This outdoor restaurant provided the perfect setting for hours-long conversation.

Upon returning back to the compound, we had our evening devotions, prayed for specific concerns (our teens can PRAY!), then discussed the plans for tomorrow: three adults going to the deaf school and everybody else going door-to-door evangelizing with a nearby church (Kisugu Church of God) in one of the slums of Kampala.

Please continue to pray that God bless us with many affirmative responses to the gospel message and relationships built for the Kingdom!

Opportunities to sponsor a child abound!

2011-07-10T09:27:00.007-05:00

After service today, we enjoyed time with the kids of Nampunge as we toured the facility. It's amazing what they've done here in such a short time. It was less than three years ago when Central Community helped build the church in Nampunge. Now, there is a school with 601 children and a clinic. It is truly wonderful what the LORD has done and continues to do at that place in the live of these kids!

In the picture on the right, you see a child. Her name is Jane. She is a little girl that represents hundreds of other little girls and boys who need our help. For only $25 a month, you can send her to school, provide uniforms, and care for her in so many other ways.

Many within our congregation already sponsor children. Some sponsor as many as four! However, there are some of us that have not yet realized the need. The need is great! If you haven't yet sponsored a child, please prayerfully consider sponsoring a child.

What does it mean to sponsor a child? In addition to the automatic allotment of $25 per month, you also agree to regularly pray for your child and send letters. They love to receive letters. Make them a part of your life as you become an important part of theirs.

We spoke with one sponsored child who has gone on to university studying music production. He is a living testimony to a life changed by one unselfish commitment to save the life of one less fortunate.

If you are interested in sponsoring Jane or any other child, please call the church office today (316-943-1800) or email Cheri Clark, Director of Missions (cheri.clark@centralcommunity.org).

Kampala 25 - A Day of Celebration

2011-07-09T14:56:00.005-05:00

Today we began the day by eating a delicious breakfast of hot oatmeal, toast with all the various toppings, cold cereal, and fresh fruit, as well as a variety of beverages. The food is so delicious, prepared by such loving people!

We departed the Stevenson's compound around 9:00 a.m., drove through heavy city traffic, arriving at the Nampunge church just after a Youth Celebration had begun. This Nampunge church is one of the first to have been sponsored by CCC, and it is now hosting 9 area churches' youth groups for this Kampala 25 (a celebration including all Church of God churches within a 25 kilometer distance).

We sat at the front of the church, were graciously introduced, and appreciated all the amazing singing and dancing these youth put their heart and soul in to. As Grant introduced the team, he taught all the attendees the sign language for applause and "I Love You" - the kids picked that up quickly and repeatedly used these signs throughout the day for Lisa and all of us. Truly a memorable celebration...especially the part when the church brought US their straw skirts to put on and dance for them to the sound of African drums! Fortunately, Grant led the way adding dance moves these people say they will remember to use in the future, but we all had a wonderful time!

Afterwards, we danced more in the church courtyard and then left for the compound arriving home at 8:30 a bit tired, hungry, and dirty, but so happy. God is alive here in Africa...and we all feel blessed to be a part of His work.

(the other Mzungu next to Jake is Jesse Stevenson, one of Tim and Colleen's sons)

The blessings of Businywa

2011-07-08T14:25:00.006-05:00

As Lisa has already posted, the village visit and work was so awesome. The people were so very welcoming and loving towards us.

With regard to living accommodations, we were in tents (it was intense) and using foam mattresses on the ground. While it was a bit more primitive than many of us were used to, it was fine and there were no complaints. The team has done very well together in work, worship, and play.

As we wrapped up our time here, one of the important parts of the dedication service is the exchange of gifts. Lisa has already described what we received (and what will be on the menu for us later this week). We also were able to give gifts to them. We brought along with us an American Flag, maps of the world, lots of candy for the kids, flip-flops, paper, crayons, chalk, building blocks, parachutes, jump ropes, soccer balls, american footballs, and more.

What we look forward to is identifying needs as we arrive. Working with Colleen and the leaders of the village and district, we were able to purchase 3 sewing machines for the church to sew uniforms for the kids in the Child Development Center which is adjacent to the church. This center provides school and even assistance for kids from nursery to our equivalent of 8th grade. We also provided plastic chairs for the church and a nearby church in the border town of Busia.

Another amazing "God thing" was how He provided for the roof of this new church building. The building's roof is a corrugated steel roof. There are other churches which also need such a roof. One church needed 10 sheets. Another church needed 6 sheets. And yet another needed a few to cover their new latrine. All of these needs were met by the extra sheets from this church building in Businywa. Wow. God provided not just for one village but for four! Just like the little boy's fish and loaves so much was provided from just a little.

Tomorrow begins Kampala 25. More on that later.

The Village - Businywa

2011-07-08T13:46:00.009-05:00

From Lisa: First of all, Africa is a beautiful and peaceful country unlike America, People walking, riding bikes and motorcycles on side of streets. Even have animals wandering around the streets. I thought that was pretty cool!!

We went to a Village called Businywa Village...We helped build a stage, OK it was harder than we thought. had no equipment America has and we did it by hands! i am proud of us for helping them with the stage. We also went visit TAPP people and gave them gifts after hearing their stories and we also helped paint a church in another village for the TAPP group.

Today was eventful day. We opened up a new church, introduced each other, prayed, sang and danced for 3 hours! They gave Grant two goats and two chicken for us to eat before we leave Africa. Wish us luck!! We played with alot alot of kids and taught them new stuff and they loved stickers!! They are wonderful people who really appreciated stuff we gave them and they really are very thankful that we came out to visit them and help them finish building church. Today, we were told that we got 9 churches built in 4 years!! God is awesome!!

The Source of the Nile

2011-07-08T11:11:00.001-05:00

On our way to the village of Businywa, we stopped in Jinja for a bite to eat. Then, we drove nearby to see the source of the Nile River. The Nile is the longest river in Africa and the southernmost source is in Uganda. The source itself is a combination of the waters flowing from the largest lake in Africa, Lake Victoria, as well as an underground spring that produces 4000 liters of water every minute.

We began our tour at the river's shore before taking a short boat ride to the actual source (where the spring is located) some 300-400 feet toward the otherside of the river. The boat was large enough to accommodate us all and still provide some anxious moments on our way there. We could also see from a distance some shoreside property that another US church is investing in along with East Africa Church of God to expand the missions effort to the islands nearby.

It was great to see the wildlife of beautiful birds and lizards along the shoreline. Yet another example of God's wonder and creativity.

Plans For Today

2011-07-07T09:41:00.004-05:00

Madison: Everyone is up. We had breakfast or roasted corn, bread, milk, tea, eggs and fixins. Now, it's time to begin service, visits and teaching.

Valerie: The roof should be finished today. Today will be much like yesterday. At any time parachute games or a soccer game can spontaneously break out. A shade tree makes a great spot to read a book to a group of children. Friendships will be born, and prayers offered for those in need.

Today, the team will be working with a nearby school to use one of the classrooms and hopefully break the kids into smaller groups to do flannel board lessons and other crafts.

There will also be a church dedication today and a return from the village to the missionary's compound in Kampala. As the team leaves today, they will carry a part of Businywa village with them the rest of their lives.

Please continue to pray for our team as they minister to those around them.

News From Uganda

2011-07-07T09:27:00.007-05:00

Here are a couple of updates from yesterday from Madison and Valerie from Businywa.

Madison AM: We're up, fed and ready to start the day's work and visits. The people of Businywa are so welcoming.

Madison PM: Lots of good times with kids, students and women here in Businywa. Church roof should be covered tomorrow. More TAPP visits, too! G'nite!

Valerie through Fred: Some of the team visited the TAPP office and made home visits. There is also work being done on the church there to get it ready for dedication on Friday. The roof should be finished tomorrow. They also spent time teaching Bible stories to the kids. They worked with about 120 or so at one time. Others spent time with the women's group as well as youth and pastors. While our team is there to minister to the people of Uganda, it is often the case that our team members' spirits are touched by those in the village.

Valerie's classroom was under a tree. (The picture is from Ngora village, teaching under a mango tree from a previous trip).

TAPP Visits

2011-07-06T08:56:00.004-05:00

TAPP (Tumaini "hope" AIDS Prevention Program) is the program our missionary and others in Uganda work through to minister to those diagnosed with HIV and AIDS. This is a devastating diagnosis in Uganda because those affected are not allowed to work and are generally outcasts in society. (Similar to the lepers in biblical times).

Valerie sent a text to her husband, Fred last night indicating that she was getting ready to head to the TAPP office and spend time with the ladies there. The team will spend time at the TAPP office and share with them. They will also do home visits to those who are not at the office. This will be a time to visit and pray with them, and there is always a care package to leave. This is usually the most difficult time for the team members, as the emotions are high. It really humbles a person to see God's children in such conditions. It's during these times that most members want to bring as many as they can home with them. My words cannot capture the feeling here. Please be praying for our team as they minister. The village of Businywa is a beautiful place. As soon as we get pictures, I will post them.

(The picture is Colleen distributing gifts at a TAPP home visit from 2009 trip that Valerie was on)

We made it to Uganda!

2011-07-04T05:35:00.006-05:00

Greetings from Uganda!

After over 25 hours of travelling more than 6000 miles...we made it! We left Wichita on the 2:45 pm flight to Dallas and had only 40 minutes in Dallas to catch our flight to Heathrow. As we approached the gate, we heard the announcement for "last call" for the flight. We were one of two large groups that were the last to board. The other group was comprised of around 30 4th and 5th graders from Iowa and Nebraska. However, we were able to make our flight and get settled before leaving the country. The big question was whetHer our 24 pieces of luggage would make the connection!

In Heathrow (London) we took a bus to another part of the airport in order to catch our flight to Nairobi. We were required to pass through security (again) and then had to gain our boarding passes to our flight on Kenyan Airways. The combination of all these took longer than we thought it would and, again, we were looking at a tight connection. However, we walked up (finally) to the gate as they began boarding all rows on our flight to Kenya.

The flight to Kenya, as well as the other flights so far, was uneventful and we were impressed with the quantity and quality of the flight attendance, and fine dining. Whoever heard of having lamb as one of the airline menu selections! Arriving in Kenya, we had to go through security again and were amazed at the condition of the airport - ceiling files falling down, open plumbing, and other hazards faced us along the way from one gate to another.

From there, we once again had a timely, uneventful flight to Entebbe where ALL 24 pieces of luggage were recieved (praise the LORD!) and our official greeters and drivers (David and Alice) were there to help us load and drive the hour-long distance to the compound. Upon leaving the Entebbe airport, we realized it was now midnight, July 4, so we broke into spontaneous patriotic songs, celebrating our nation's birthday, and drove the rest of the way noticing the many differences in streets, open street vendors (at 1:30 a.m.!), the variety of aromas, and the many scooters (called boda-bodas) sometimes passing our van carrying as many as three riders! The beds, showers, and warm welcome have been thoroughly enjoyed and appreciated!

Some money has been exchanged...a delicious lunch is now being served...then many of us are in need of a short nap. There is planning and more laughing to come this afternoon as we consider all that God has in store for us these coming days.

We miss our family and our friends but we know that God has us right where He wants us to be right now. We ask for your continued support and prayers.

Joplin Disaster Relief Team Two Returns Home

2011-07-01T10:52:00.005-05:00

A big thank you to Team Two for all their hard work. They were a small team (only 6) with a big heart! No equipment except that God provided as far as hand tools, chain saws and a big ability to connect with those God brought their way. They have many stories to tell of those they met while in Joplin and how God is working in a big way through volunteers from all across the country coming in to Joplin to lend a helping hand, often as individuals, not even with a team.

God has called many to come and make a difference. Is God calling you? Teams are still forming for future trips so please prayerfully determine when you can come and contact me at Central Community Church to let me know when you would like to travel (316-943-1800) or cheri.clark@centralcommunity.org.

Team Two completed the cleanup of the property on Montana Street in Joplin and as they took one last look they found a card left for them from the family who we were blessed to help. "Thank you for being there. I just can't thank you enough for all you've done. You were there with a helping hand just when I needed it most...ready to pitch in and do whatever you could. You gave me something special - your time - and I'll always remember you for it. We honestly cannot thank you enough for what you have done for our family."

There are many, many other families in need of help to clean their properties. The deadline is quickly approaching (in Mid August) that FEMA has set for FEMA to cover 90% of the cost. The area is still full of debris that needs to be hauled off before the rebuilding phase can begin and you see very few people at work. Volunteers are desperately needed! Those of us who have been on the ground there will tell you it is well worth giving up a weekend to impact a family by showing God's love to them as we help them cleanup and move toward rebuilding. As Terry Allred said, "The memories will last forever."

Cheri Clark

Montana House 90% Completed!

2011-06-30T09:22:00.010-05:00

We are approximately 90% completed with our mission on this house; we only have about 20% left of the flooring and floor joists--so, we're now working with 80% of bare foundation. We had planned to complete this today but God had a different plan for us--we had some chainsaw problems that slowed us down. We still know we are right on God's time schedule and will patiently watch HIM work through us.

We remain thankful to God, CCC and Pastor John for allowing us to be a part of this. I spoke with a nurse today from St. Louis, who is donating her time to serve in one of the clinics set up in one of the Joplin churches. This Sister in Christ is so thankful for churches and leadership like CCC that make this serving possible. She told me she actually attends a church larger than CCC and they never serve in any missions as a church. She would love the opportunity to travel with her immediate church family to serve, so she had 10,000 questions as to how Pastor John, Pastor Greg and Cheri Clark organize and "do" all of this.

I must confess, I teetered on the edge of the sin of pride as I explained a tremendously supportive CCC congregation and shared with her missions like Uganda, Honduras, Katrina, Compassion Saturday, Love Wichita and as many others as I was able to remember. God blesses us when we do the work He called us to do and we feel it. Yeah, the temps have reached over 100 and we were hoping to move to a shady serving (LOL!), but meeting with the homeowner every evening and all the outpouring in Joplin helps us remember what HE is doing and know we are directly in the middle of HIS will.

Thank you, Lord, thank you Pastor John, thank you Central Community, thank you Advil, thank you Pepcid, thank you spring water, thank you sunscreeen, thank you shower--oops!; I've gone too far. LOL!

Terry Allred

Team Two Day Two

2011-06-29T08:58:00.006-05:00

The walls were all down by 9:30am Tuesday morning. We have now removed 95% of the blow-in insulation and 1/3 of the floor and floor joists--on our way to "takin' her to the foundation". God has been gracious to allow us some great progress, while continuing to meet many of the neighbors and sharing why we are here. We remain amazed at God's outpouring of other volunteers, from all over the U.S. to support us with prayer, drinks, cold wash-cloths, snacks, medical care and more and more.

One of the neighbors has served God in Hurricane Katrina and several other disaster relief missions--including Greensburg, Kansas and now his church is supporting him, as their family is wiped out from this tornado. His testimony of how God saved his family is remarkable. Pastor John reminded us that Jesus tells us to give a cool drink of water in His name and our team here hopes that goes for sunscreen too--because our Brother-in-Christ needed both.

Yes, it is a Blessing to watch and be a part of so many of God's people helping people in His name. God has kept us safe and moving forward and your CCC Joplin Mission Team #2 remains thankful. Thank you for your continued support in prayer, offerings and encouragement. Hope to have more to report by Thurs morning.

In Christ,

Terry

Joplin Disaster Relief Team Two Arrives!

2011-06-28T16:06:00.007-05:00

Let this picture stand as a symbol of what is happening in Joplin - rebuilding in the midst of destruction. Mama bird flew away for more worms to feed her babies in their newly constructed nest on top of a garage door opener in a destroyed home. No trees to make a new nest in? Mama Bird improvises....and little lives survive amidst the destruction. (Cheri Clark)

We send you greetings from Joplin, MO. It has been a hot, exhausting and blessed first of five days in Joplin. Team #1 handed off the latest project to Team #2 today (Monday) and returned to Wichita. It is a blessing to see the smiles and gratitude to God from the bruised, cut and sunburned volunteers who are now leaving and from those who are just arriving.

We are shocked by the devastation of this approx. 1/2 mile wide and 6 mile long path from this tornado that hit the area in May of this year.

Our current project is in the middle of some of the worst damage. We have been blessed to meet both the homeowner of the house we are working on demolishing and another neighbor on the block (both are rebuilding). It is just unbelievable to have them point out the house where three were killed and another nearby where 2 were killed and another where 10 were killed and another 21 were killed within a mile of where we are working.

The family whose house we are currently working on are not yet believers, but they tell us how they have been unable to find anyone else willing to help them until CCC arrived. Within an hour from the time she told us her story of surviving the storm, we were removing the bathtub in which she and her 9 year old son "rode out the tornado". Unbelievable!

I was truly touched as our team members took special care to remove a particular bathroom pedestal sink and place it in her car to be reinstalled in her rebuilt home AND even sifted through a mound of insulation to retrieve her unique dog shampoo and dog toy -- yep, that's the kind of caring servants God sent through Team Two.

We must stack all of the debris within 10 feet of the street, in order for the removal by huge Caterpillars and trucks of what was left of this home. As we carried and stacked, God reminded us that he NEVER "kicks us to the curb". He is always ready to restore and even "rebuild" our relationship with HIM, if we just sincerely ask. Thank You Lord for letting CCC be a part of Your master plan, here in Joplin. And thank You for both those You have deployed and those who have helped deploy us. And Lord, please let Your work here speak directly to the spirits of those who don't yet know You. We know You are smiling, Lord as all of these different denominations have come together to serve as God's people. - Terry Allred

Joplin Disaster Relief

2011-06-28T15:27:00.007-05:00

Joplin Disaster Team One left Wichita on Friday, June 24 and worked in Joplin through Monday, June 27. We cut and cleaned up downed trees at three homes out in an adjacent county to Joplin where the home owners didn't qualify for FEMA help. Our main project, however was the house you see in the picture, located on Montana Street in Joplin, in the heart of the destruction. Three family members were home and survived the tornado in a bathroom in the center of the house. The house had to be completely demolished. When our team of 20 arrived, they were a bit overwhelmed at the scope of the project with only a small skid loader and dump trailer for equipment. The house appeared quite solid and all brick. You can see the progress we were able to make during our extended weekend time in Joplin, in the next picture. How did we do it? One piece at a time and with the help of a couple of construction workers from down the street and their equipment, and a muscular football player who came with his family on Sunday just to see who they could help (he was amazing with the sledgehammer) and simply God working through sledgehammers, crowbars and all the members of our team. It was a blessing to be a part of God's plan as we did our small part to make a difference for a homeowner who had lost so much...

Local Missions Video - Holidays 2010

2010-12-28T23:08:00.005-06:00

Here's a video that gives a snapshot of how God enabled us to serve Wichita this Holiday season.

The Nebbi Town Church - The Commemoration

2010-11-19T01:19:00.004-06:00

As we dedicated the church building earlier this week, there was one important part that was not quite ready to participate in the service. For such an occasion, a plaque is created to honor God for what He has enabled us to accomplish.

After hearing of the loss of Tom Moffitt and his sacrifice for freedom, the church wanted to acknowledge that his and others' commitment to serve in the cause of freedom. Therefore, the Church of God, East Africa (U) wanted to ensure that the church building would reflect this acknowledgment. This commemorative plaque, placed at the entrance, would declare to all who enter the following:

Nebbi Church of GOD E.A.U.
To the Glory of God and the service of Community, this day November 14, 2010, open this building, the Nebbi Church of God E.A.U., a joint venture with Central Community Church in Wichita, Kansas, USA, a spirit of Compassion in world community. Service of others is seen in this Partnership. Our Joy is tempered with the knowledge of the many that have lost Family and Friends in the past years of conflict in Northern Uganda. We recognize the many who Serve to allow others these freedoms we share. As a Church body we acknowledge this in the Moffitt home of our Central Community Church family. The great sadness of loss of life of their son Tom Moffitt serving for Peace in Afghanistan. We the Church of God E.A.U. recognize the ultimate cost of this commitment is so very great. We open these doors in service of Christ Jesus and in Honor to His glory so that all who enter may know.

Peace I leave with you. My peace I give to You, Not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your hearts be troubled neither be afraid John 14:27
No greater love as no one than this than to lay down his life for his friends. John 15:13
---

In God's family, no matter how scattered we may be from one another, we share in each others' lives - both in joy and sorrow. It is a blessing to have those of our family who are so far away physically, share our lives in the Spirit. May we remember them as they remember us.

Uganda...the video

2010-11-17T08:11:00.003-06:00

Here is our first Uganda 2010 video...enjoy.

Nebbi - Day 4

2010-11-16T08:40:00.004-06:00

Monday offered a different routine for us. In the morning, pastors and women were taught while others went to home visits. Then, in the afternoon, there were activities for women and children, while still others visited TAPP clients and Grandmothers in their homes. These folks live in a compound made up of mud and grass huts. Very simple structures, they're often kept swept even if the floors are dirt. We talk with them, pray with them, offer some sustenance like soap, rice, and other helpful commodities. Of course, we also offer the gospel if they haven't received Christ. Even in this abject poverty, the people are so gracious and, above all else, thankful - a very humbling experience, to be sure.

In the late afternoon, just as the roofers covered the last larger section of the roof, we began the Dedication Service with a ribbon cutting ceremony led by our group leader Grant Fisher. He led us in procession into the building from the back to the front as the church sang and danced and yodeled their way to their seats. These plastic seats, by the way, some 73 of them, were provided by Central Community Church along with a contribution toward a portable sound system that they will use in the building and in evangelical rallies throughout the town as they spread the good news of Jesus Christ. The room of the building where they worship is about 80x40 feet in size - one of the larger Church of God church buildings in Uganda - with an office area in the front of the church.

Thanks were given, greetings were offered, songs were sung, and God glorified in it all. Rev. Tim spoke along with Grant Fisher. We gave them gifts before singing to them the three songs we had prepared. Lastly, with only a kerosene lamp as illumination, pastor greg shared some encouragement and challenges that built upon what Rev. Tim had already shared. It was truly a great evening to cap off a wonderful visit.

After the fellowship time, we went to our guest house and prepared for the next day.

Nebbi - Day 3

2010-11-15T08:12:00.003-06:00

On Sunday, we divided into 4 groups with folks in each group that would preach, offer greetings, a testimony, and at least in one case, a song or two. Each group was warmly welcomed. The Ugandan people are so pleased that we've come so far to see them. For the most part, they've known in advance that we were coming and prayed for us. These are a praying people!

After services, we met in the guest house for lunch and Sunday relaxing - we napped, wrote in our journals, read, or talked. Then, afterward, we went back to the Nebbi Town Church for a time of fellowship. This was definitely a celebration of the church and other leaders from the surrounding area praising God and thanking Him for all He has done and continues to accomplish. Of course, they placed us, the visitors, at the front in places of recognition. Rev. Martin, the regional evangelist (region leader), led the time together and interpreted for us. Tim Stevenson spoke, they presented gifts (including a goat) - all very humbling as they gave out of their substance for us. We sang, they sang, they danced, and we tried.

They performed a few skits, also. One skit acted out common circumstances of tough family dynamics due to alcohol abuse of the father and how he eventually received Christ to be "born again" - an understandably important phrase to the Ugandan Christians. The other skit illustrated the story of the prodigal son. It was interesting to observe how the multiple cultures laugh or otherwise respond differently to elements of the skits than one another.

After the service, we went back to the guest house for dinner and devotions, and practicing our songs for the dedication service the following day.

Nebbi - Days 1 and 2

2010-11-13T03:23:00.001-06:00

Nebbi District (more info here) is in the Northwest part of Uganda and borders the Democratic Republic of Congo on the west and Lake Albert and the Albert Nile River is on the south. The district and produces coffee, tea, cotton, potatoes, sorghum, corn, rice, mangoes, sunflower, cabbage, nuts, pineapples, and so much more. The population is over 535,000 in a district that's just a little larger than our own county of Sedgwick.

It took a long time to drive there - over eight hours - and much of it was in the attempt to get out of Kampala. Once we did get out of Kampala, the landscape was beautiful. Rolling hills, lush trees, and good roads. Once we got to the Nile River, we began seeing monkeys and baboons along the road - we even saw a group of giraffes as we drove through part of the game park that is on the way to Nebbi.

Our guest house offered rooms of either one double bed or two twin beds. Toilet and bathing facilities were primitive but the water was clean...and usually cold, er, I mean, refreshing. :) Our food was good and timely. The local fare of rice, beans, kasabe, millet, potato, meat (beef, chicken, fish), greens, and fresh fruit was a daily staple for us. The coffee and tea were very good.

On our first and second days, we split into 4 primary roles: children, women, pastors/men, and the church building project. There were so many children and, while they were more than a handful, they received our group with great excitement. This was also true for the women and the pastors. Enthusiastic reception from the church as a whole was something we could always count upon. All the hard work put in by the team before we came was well worth it as each team had options available so that we could be as flexible as possible to deal with each situation as they presented themselves. And, on these missions trips, the name of the game is: flexibility!

We would arrive at the church site after breakfast about 9:30am, break for lunch around 1pm and return about 2:30pm. "About" a time is another cultural difference. Time is relevant and rarely exact. Our day would end between 5pm and 6pm, when we would return to the guest house for bathing, relaxing, and dinner. After dinner, and on every night while we are on this trip, we gather together for a time when a team member shares a devotion with the team. This is also the time when we worship in song and share what we observed in the lives of the people we are serving and what we observed about ourselves. It is in these moments that we experience the moments of this journey as a team and learn from one another a larger picture of what God is doing in all of our lives.

The people are kind, loving, and so very thankful for what God is doing in their lives and in ours. They are family - the family of the Most High God.

The Nebbi Town Church

2010-11-11T11:14:00.000-06:00

The Nebbi Town Church has been built in large part due to the contributions of Central Community Church. While we were there, the final portions of the roof were being put into place.

This is an excerpt from a letter written by the Pastor of the church to the team and to the entire church at Central.

Facts of the church:

Starting date: 17 April, 1996.
Church population: around 200
Vision: To embrace the Christ-like attitude and concentrate on the spiritual, social, moral, and economic transformation of the community.
Mission: Lift up Christ and let Him shine everywhere.
Pastor’s salary: He has no formal salary but is a teacher by trade and therefore receives his income from teaching in another local school. He also receives a small portion of the offering amounting to roughly $5 per month.

Facts of the School:

Starting date: 6 February, 2010
Opening enrollment: 396
Current enrollment: 205
Number of teachers: 7
Monthly school fee per child: $5
Challenges they face:

Poor funding or lack of funding. Parents cannot afford the fees and this is the primary reason for the drop in enrollment over the last months.
Classroom buildings are made of reeds and tarpaulin which suffer under poor weather conditions and are subject to destruction by termites which are always a threat.
Lack of trained teachers.
Insufficient scholastic materials.
Classroom furniture. There are few benches for the children to sit upon and many sit on reed mats.
Other challenges: lack of parental support, sickness, lack of awareness of the importance of early childhood education, and of course, poverty.

From: Pastor Joshua AwekoniMungu, Pastor of Nebbi Town Church of God
To: The Delegation Leader, the team, and Central Community Church

On behalf of the Christians of Nebbi Town Church of God and on my own behalf, I wish to convey our sincere gratitude and appreciation to the Central Community Church members for the tremendous offer they have accorded us. Traveling over a very long distance overseas to come to Uganda particularly [the] Nebbi District, spotting us to be the second church after Nyarambe to benefit from the church construction programme like this, such a wonderful and unexpected offer. Indeed brothers, it is as if we are day dreaming when we look at what you have done. Tangibly looking at our [resources and background] we could do nothing like this, because [the] majority of our population, especially the Northern part are living in what the developed world calls extreme poverty; actually below the poverty line, where many are surviving on less than one dollar a day. Whatever the case may be, the Christians [church members] cheerfully contributed manually to raise other materials like sand, bricks, though not [all are able to.]

With all these [challenges] therefore, we remain thankful, thankful and really thankful, to the Lord and all of you for the glorious and remarkable support you have given. We shall always have unfading remembrance for you, your family members in America and wherever they may be, our missionary and all those who contributed in our church construction struggle. May the Lord richly bless you.

In Jesus, Amen.

Thank you Very Much,

Yours in the Lord’s Vineyard

Pastor Joshua AwekoniMungo

Day 2 at Kasubi

2010-11-10T11:56:00.000-06:00

We arrived at Kasubi and immediately went to work. Some went to teach pastors and teachers. Others went on TAPP client visits. Another group spent time with Children of Promise kids.

This is a special opportunity to love on those children many of us at Central have sponsored. We thank God for all those who've made a sacrifice for a child in this part of the world.

However, the need is so great. While gifts to your sponsored children were given, we noticed that other unsponsored children looked on. Some of (hese children in a local school sleep on concrete floors and sit on rough stones for studying. However, we were able to purchase and distribute mattresses and many other needed items that the church was able to provide through the special offering we gathered on Oct. 31. We thank God for the generosity of His church!

Do you already sponsor a child? Keep praying for him or her (or them). If you don't currently sponsor a child, prayerfully consider how you might be able to make a difference in the present life and eternity of a life (and his or her family) here in Uganda.

Tomorrow: we travel to Nebbi!

Kasubi - Day 1

2010-11-09T09:47:00.004-06:00

At 9:30ish (10am in reality), we drove to the school at Kasubi and kept busy most of the day.

Some went to home visits where we meet TAPP (Tumaini AIDS Prevention Program) clients. Humbled by their joy in the midst of some horrific circumstances, they teach us how to be content in all situations as we do our best to comfort and encourage them in the Lord.

Others went to the TAPP office and learned how to make beads. This is just one way that the TAPP clients make an income to sustain themselves and their families. When we purchase articles of jewelry which are made up of these beads, we help support them as they desire to support themselves.

Our journeys to Uganda offer an opportunity to bring our church's gifts to sponsored children as well as arrange for personal visits. This can be logistically challenging and we had a delegation go to arrange these visits as well as purchase gifts for the children.

At the school, there were teachers and pastors who were in separate conferences. A few of us had the privilege of teaching the church leaders as well as learning from them as they asked questions and sought wisdom - not from us so much as from the Word and each other.

Kasubi school teaches children of all ages all the way up through high school. The young ones were fascinated by our skin and hair (Greg and Terry) wanting to touch our heads and arms and faces.

We have one more day at Kasubi before we travel many hours to Nebbi. We thank God for His presence in each of our adventures and look forward to what He has in store for us next.

We're here!

2010-11-08T06:59:00.003-06:00

After over 24 hours of flight and bus travel, we made it to the Stevenson's compound in Kampala. All the luggage made it except one storage bin which should be available to us on Tuesday. We got in late and stayed up late getting settled into our rooms and talking. The first day is typically spent preparing for the trip: reorganizing bins, last minute teaching prep, etc. A trip to the bank is part of the day, as well, to exchange dollars for shillings for helping the churches as well as for personal spending needs.

Of course, there is also a little nap time to acclimate to the 9 hour time difference between Wichita and Kampala. Whew! We are NOT in Kansas anymore.

Thankful for God's protection and providence. Praying for Him to receive all the glory as He enables us to be His servants here in Uganda.

"Halfway" there

2010-11-07T02:24:00.000-06:00

We made it to Heathrow aka London. All 14 of us, after enduring the security check experience (2 of us took pictures and had to erase them), made it to a spot in the middle of Terminal 5 right next to Starbux.

Next leg of the Journey...9+ hours to Entebbe!

Two days and counting...

2010-11-04T12:38:00.005-05:00

The preparation is nearly complete and the team is gearing up for a life changing two weeks. Our schedule takes us from Wichita, Kansas on Saturday, November 6 through Dallas and London, landing in Entebbe, Uganda late on Sunday, November 7. Pray specifically for good weather, safe travels, and on-time arrivals and departures - oh, and a little sleep would be good, too.

There has been SO much work that has been put into this trip. Why? So, children will learn about Jesus and how much God loves them. Pastors and other men and women will learn a little more about what it means to be a fully devoted follower of the Lord, Jesus Christ. The joy of the Lord will truly be each believer's strength. That relationships will be established for eternity. And, all will remember, in personal ways, how the Lord changed us for our good and to His glory.

So, take a moment, right now, and pray:
...that God would be glorified through each team member.
...that God would hold each team member closely to Himself keeping them safe in Him
...that the people of Uganda would be blessed by God through each team member
...and that each team member would make the most of this opportunity to change lives for Christ...including their own.

God bless you!

Godspeed 2010 Adult Team!

2010-11-03T13:08:00.003-05:00

This Saturday, November 4, our adult team will be leaving Wichita for Uganda. This year they will be going to Nebbi in the West Nile region to complete a church that another team began three years ago. The team looks forward to working again with Martin, the District Leader for that region and getting reacquainted with all the friends we made on our last trip.

Please be in prayer for our team as they travel and be sure to keep checking back here to read all the latest news from the team.

Day at Kasubi

2010-06-18T09:45:00.002-05:00

Today was a great day. Some of us went to the TAPP office and learned how to make beads as well as enjoying time with the kids and clients. Another group of us went on JaJa visits, that's Grandma in Uganda. Larry, Scott and Walter took their first Boda Boda ride (taxi motorcyle)and so did I with a skirt on, side saddle. What a ride! We also took taxis to get to all the different locations we went to for visits with the older ladies. Others worked in the library at the school or worked on the new area that is under construction.

We had lunch at the school. We tried to avoid the caterpillars that were everywhere and cause an allergic reaction when they come in contact with our skin and the little bristles on them brush against it.

In the afternoon, those of us with Children of Promise sponsored kids got to visit with our kids. That was really special for us. We had plenty of time to spend really quality time with them. Others worked at the TAPP office, on the building, at the library and Scott and a couple of others worked with the teenagers.

We saw many old friends, Pastor Fred, the pastor from the church in the East that we built last year, etc. It's always good to reconnect with those we've met from previous trips.

We are leaving in a half hour to go out to dinner at an Ethiopian restaurant. That will be something totally new for us.

Tomorrow we plan to shop so the packing will begin tonight. And of course, the group is gathered around the TV watching the World Cup.

Got to go get ready for dinner...

Cheri

God is at work in the city of Lira

2010-06-17T13:59:00.003-05:00

Hey there everybody! Lira was an experience that I don't think any of us will ever forget. It was the day after an extremelly uncomfortable and very long trip from the safari. We, once again, jumped into the van and drove, to the city of Lira. Surprisingly the roads were very smooth for most of the way there, a rarity here in Uganda. We entered Lira and arrived at our "Hotel". A 5 star hotel couldn't be better than what was waiting for us there. From having holes in concrete and basins of water for bathing we went to hot showers, an actual bathroom, and beds. God blessed us so much with that hotel. When we arrived to Reverend Martin's house a group of ladies greeted us with loud trills that resembles a fire alarm at our schools. The next morning, after a well needed hot shower, we arrived at the school. There were kids everywhere! Some of us went and played with the kids and others went on the Tapp visits. The stories of the people that are a part of Tapp are just heart wrenching! Some are blind, some are just skin and bone, and yet some are active and happy and have such hope! The Lord has taken their pain, suffering, and in the face of death they found hope, joy, and a relationship with God. On our last day some children performed a dance for us, except there was a twist. They pulled us up with them to dance with them. I'm telling you, it was a workout! When we left the next day we stopped at a Tech School in Lira. It's built in an area where have died and were murdered. God has taken death, and brought life, light, and hope.
Praise God and God bless!
Cameron

God's Imagination and Creativity

2010-06-13T15:32:00.004-05:00

Hello family, friends, and loved ones! The Central Mission Team sends our warm...very warm greetings! The past few days our team has been on a Safari in Queen Elizabeth National Park. What beauty! We all woke up before the sun and piled into two white Safari vehicles. We drove for 7 hours with one stop in between to catch a boat ride that completely captured our breathe away. We drove up to a loading station as a woman says..."tickets please, I need your tickets to board". We awaited the other teams arrival and finally we had tickets to board. The boat started its engine and took off down Lake George and Lake Edward. The first signs of wild life was a huge hippo that would catch our attention then go under water. We made our way down the lake's edge and saw "God's Imagination and Creativity". How beautiful the animals were. The boat ride lasted 2 hours but the true Safari had just begun. We hopped into our vehicles to view our rooms. We stayed in a HOSTEL that evening. Before we were assigned our rooms, we each reminded our selves that anything may have been better than the living conditions in Janna, but God has blessed us with some great rooms for our Safari visit! We went on an evening ride through the park with our Safari tops off to get a better view. We took photographs of wonderful animals, then suddenly we ran into the LION KING! There they were Mother, Father and baby cubs! We moved in for a closer view and all I could think about was how my dad would be upset if anything happened to me...but hey, you get what you paid for! Up close encounter with LIONS!! The highlight of that trip was feeling that God has created all of that wonderful nature and creatures for our enjoyment and appreciation. I was truly entertained!
God Bless,
Abigail

God Shines on the Heart of Janna Island

2010-06-11T10:02:00.005-05:00

To our beautiful Central Mission Team Blog viewers, we send our love and blessings. The past four days we tested ourselves through our patience, love, faithfulness, hearts, minds and Stomachs on the Island of Janna. I will try to descriptively explain our experience on the island, but words are unable to give the time we spent on the island justice. We all prepared early that morning for an adventurous boat ride, with an expectation of an Indian Jones adventure, but as the sun laid its rays on our skin, the boat ride turned into a three to four hour sauna. As we pressed forward through the water, the scenic view of God's creation surpassed the discomfort of how close we were to the equator. We finally arrived to the small island and awaiting us was a group of fishermen that began yelling "Muzungu" "The White People are here!". As the children ran down the hill and greeted us with smiles and warm abraces, we officially began what God has sent us out to do, spread his love. A little girl came and held my hand, she helped me carry my luggage to a small school a few miles away. As the luggage came pouring in, the sun came laid to rest and the first night was completed with a wonderful meal prepared by the native women. I laid down in my small bed with rocks supporting it and a mosquito nest all around with no pillow, no blank in the heat of the night. It was hard to fall asleep until I realized that once I decided to set aside my selfish emotions and except my environment for what it was, the beauty of the island, then I began to open up my heart and allow God to work through me to reach his children. We went from shack to shack no bigger than my bedroom, if not smaller, seeing women, men and children on dirt floors, walls made of card board, wooden benches to seat guest. We evangelized, some taught the school children stories from the Bible and played games and constructed activities, and the one that effected me the most was the home vists to women with AIDS. How can a disease so distructing affect women so beautiful? We spoke with the women, praid for the women, and brought useful products such as soap, vitamins,etc... If you made it through this far of the blog, please pray for the people of Janna, and there children, spouses, homes, well being, that through any thing, with trust and faith in God, eternal joy and peace can be obtained. There is so much more to this time in Janna, and the overall story is this, God worked through the us to reach the lives on this island, and when crossed the lake to reach the city of Kampala, take off our dirty clothes and showered clean, the memories still are vivid, our hearts are still settled on that little island, Jenna...
God Bless,
Abigail Rich

Just FYI

2010-06-07T16:19:00.003-05:00

Okie Dokie followers, we're headed off to some local islands on Lake VIctoria tommorrow and we won't be back until the 11th. We'll be taking a boat out there (about three hours on the water) and staying in a school, working with the community, and doing some evangelism. Once again thanks for the prayer and we love you all.
On behalf of my crazy comrades,
allie

Getting There is Half the Journey

2010-06-07T15:45:00.004-05:00

Hey all of you at home following our every move. Sorry we haven't been able to get on and let you all know what we've been up to, but we've got things worked out with the Internet now and so here I am.
International flying is always an experience, and this trip was no exception. Here are a few highlights:
When we first arrived at the airport we were informed that we wouldn't have to pay for any of our second bags and that they were checked all the way to Uganda.
*After a smooth flight to Chicago we spent a couple of hours in the airport just eating and waiting, but the biggest deal was the unhappy Asian ladies in the food court. "DO YOU KNOW WHAT YOU WANT?" they would yell at us.... jeez.... I thought one might murder me when i put my spoon in the wrong place at the icecream counter.
* The flight from Chicago to London was filled with very "charismatic" people. A few of us made some friends from places such as Bulgaria and Russia, it's always nice to meet new people. But by far, the most memorable people on our flight were our super perky male flight attendant who often shouted "hands shoulders knees and toes!!!!" to make sure that we didn't get smashed as he made his way down the aisle. The other memorable character was a girl about 10 years old who spoke Russian, ran down the aisles, called her mom stupid(often) and told her to shut up, and and ordered five beverages at a time.... Makes for a good story I guess.
* We all got a huge blessing when the flight took off from London to Nairobi with less than half of the seats filled, we all got a chance to spread out and sleep.
* We also got a chance to meet a little bit of star when we were on the plane from Nairobi to Uganda when we found out (thanks to Abigail) that Tommy Hilfiger. I happened to get his autograph on the back of my boarding pass...SWEET!
* The last, and unfortunate, little tid bit from our travels: all of our bags arrived here safely except for Gabby's, we've officially decided that that girl is trouble, well, at least her bags.
We're here, we're safe, and we're all really excited. Thanks to all of you who are praying, we love you and we'll see you soon.
On behalf of my crazy comrades,
This is allie

P.S. There are so many stories , there's no way I could fit them all here, but I'm sure you'l;l get an earfull when we all get home.

Uganda, Here We Come!

2010-05-21T09:57:00.004-05:00

On June 5, nine High School and College Students and five adults will leave Wichita to travel through Chicago, then London and Nairobi to land in Entebbe, Uganda late on June 6. After Orientation and some repacking on Monday, we will leave for islands in Lake Victoria on June 8. We will work on buildings, do activities with kids and some evangelism projects on Wednesday and Thursday and then return to Kampala on Friday. On Saturday the group will leave for a two day Safari in Queen Elizabeth Park. On Monday we will go to Lira for evangelism projects, activities with the kids and home visits. We will return to Kampala on Thursday and then prepare on Friday for departure on Saturday.

Please pray with us for a safe journey and a meaningful one. Pray that each traveler will sense the presence of God and be led by His Spirit as we reach out in His love to the people we encounter on our journey. As we complete the final preparations for our trip, pray that God will lead us to pack everything needed for this mission to Uganda.

2009-11-13T05:58:00.002-06:00

Good afternoon from Kampala. Most of us have finished our shopping (although a few are still out; they are die-hard shoppers!) and now we are packing the rest of our bargains and making sure that the suitcases don't weigh more than 50 pounds. Most of us are leaving the majority of our clothing and accessories which has lightened the bags up for souvenirs.

We had a wonderful visit in Nampunge yesterday! It was so awesome to see what has been done to the church since we were here last year. The people in Nampunge had a fund raiser last month in order to get funds to put plaster on the walls and they have cemented the floor; it looks like stadium seating now. Plus windows have been added. It is great to see that the people continue to be proud of their church.

One personal note for Fred and me; we saw our sponsor child, Recheal, again and it was such a memorable experience. Glenna, the missionary nurse who has been in Uganda for five years and is planning to leave in a few months, gave our group a tour of the medical clinic which was our "home" last year (it is so beautiful now) and when we came outside several children were waiting outside and one of them was Recheal.

Our reunion was so precious. Recheal ate lunch with us and we got reacquainted. She was as quiet as last year but this year she smiled quite a bit. During the program that was in honor of Glenna Recheal sat on my lap and put 54 stickers that I had given her on her arms, legs, face, hands and then some on my hands. After that she fell asleep on my lap again! Of course, my heart melted.

Another highlight was getting to meet her mother and siblings in their little shop/home. Recheal's mother is 25 and has five children. Her name is Bette and she is a 2nd wife. Our translator told us that she thought our story (of how we met Recheal and came to sponsor her) was very special. We think so, too.

The last amazing experience in Nampunge was when we presented the headmistress of the school, Cristine, with three tubs of school supplies, games, soccer balls, bubbles, etc. Her face lit up and she kept telling us how grateful she was and that she appreciated it for her students. I have personally seen her work with the children in the Nampunge school and know that the items will be used to benefit the students in the best possible way.

As we bring our visit to a close we are all in agreement that it has been an interesting and exciting adventure. We had some illness, a few minor bumps and bruises, some bug bites that we couldn't identify, among our experiences but all in all we can all say that we experienced the true Africa, the true Ugandan experience and the working of our precious God. Hallelujah, praise God! And Amen!

I know that everyone will have their own unique tales to tell but please know that we appreciate all your prayers from Kansas and other places; we could feel them! Please know that God's work has been done and relationships that will affect eternity have been forged. Thank you, thank you, thank you to our dear family at Central Community!

So, I will bring this long narrative to a close. Some of us will be back in Wichita around 4:30 p.m. on Saturday but 10 of us will be arriving at 9:30 p.m. so that some of us can tour Amsterdam.

Love from: Greg and Carl (who are in Kenya for a few days) Clint, Olivia, Heather, Twyla, Cassie, Ray, Kimberly, Matt, Jill, Grant,
Joni, Jeannie, Fred and Valerie!

2009-11-11T22:27:00.002-06:00

Wow! How to begin to describe our recent journey...overwhelming but I will try. First of all, I want to let you know that we are back in Kampala safely. It was a long journey (and for the goat, turkey and two chickens who rode on top of the van that Moses drove a long, hard one!) but we all made it. Some of us even came back with orange faces from the dust on the road!

Our journey this time was to Ngora in the Kumi district. It took over 5 hours to get there but we got to see the Nile (and two crocodiles) on our way. When we arrived it was pitch black outside but we were expected because as soon as we starting making our way down the road close to the church we heard people whooping and shouting praises for our arrival! How blessed and wonderful was that experience! As we pulled into the church property we could see smiling and singing faces and a glimpse of their mud hut that has served them as their church. We gathered inside and listened to introductions and their expressions of happiness and we all felt so humble! They served us a meal and afterwards we went to our dormitories...and let me tell you, we were happy to unpack and settle in!

Our dormitory was run by a wonderful woman named Jane and she, along with her two helpers, took excellent care of us. Our rooms had twin beds with mosquito netting and our "choo" (bathroom) was in the back. It had two choos for ladies and two for men and two "shower" areas where we could use the warm water to bathe with.

For those of you who have been here, you will probably laugh at this, but this year I brought a portable toilet which has come in handy! And I must say, I am NOT the only one who has used it on the trip. Colleen told me that I was missing out on the "true experience" but I think I am getting plenty of other good experiences and I know many who are grateful. LOL Okay, enough of that.

For the church services we divided into two groups and one went to another nearby church and the group I was in stayed at Ngora. Church was such a blessing with much singing and praising God. Carl preached at our service but Jill, Olivia and I went to work with the children during this time.

I have to say something here regarding our work with children. Last year we were privileged to meet in schools that had teachers to help with interpretation; plus schools that had areas for children to sit and work. This has been an unique situation because neither church has a school attached to it and it really made a difference. We did have interpreters but there were SO many children (at least 300) that it was difficult to do some of our planned activities but as all good teacher know, flexibility is the key and Jill and I just went with the flow!

During the day on Monday and Tuesday we had around 50 or so children that were always at the church/work site but when the local school (down the road) had morning break or lunch break 200 children would come streaming down the road expecting us to entertain or just wanting to watch us. It was interesting to say the least. I will really appreciate my classroom when I return to my school next week! We even had some children with uniforms that refused to go back to school and since I am a teacher I had a hard time not wanting to be the one aiding with their playing hooky! LOL

So many other things come to my mind but I don't want to share it all since Fred will be adding also. I will say that one event that we enjoyed was on Monday night when Greg pulled out the guitar from the Stevensons' and Clint led us all in singing praise songs from the music sheets he had brought. Colleen especially enjoyed it and it was such an amazing time of praising God.

It was so good to see how everyone worked together in the areas that they enjoyed. On Monday morning we all helped move rocks into the sanctuary and Twyla and I tried carrying them on our heads like the women were and Matt did that too although he got laughed at since that is the 'woman' way of carrying! We had a great experience and really got to enjoy the African experience at Ngora!
Valerie

Ngora town is in the far eastern side of the country. It is high elevation, and a lot more arid than the other places we have been. This added a new twist to our work. We are near the equator, so the effects of the sun can be readily felt.

Valerie described our arrival, but it was so much more than just a celebration. This little “country” church, and its congregations was so excited to see us. As we traveled down the road, there was a “sentry” that saw us arriving. We heard first one, then several, then the entire countryside seemed to erupt in celebration. It was so dark that all we could do was hear, there was no way of seeing where the praises was coming from. As the headlights lit up the church, the congregation was standing there, singing songs of welcome, IN ENGLISH, of our arrival. We felt so welcome.

This area uses a different dialect than Kumali, so we began learning the key phrases all over again. It was so exciting

I want to share two stories. First, there was an elderly man who came from a neighboring village. He was there the night we arrived, and was there when we left. He spoke no English, and even with a translator, the conversation was difficult. He had heard about the building of the church, and wanted to see it for himself. So he rode his bicycle many miles, and slept at the church building the entire time. Every day, he was among the first to help with the construction, always with a smile on his face. During the dedication ceremony, he was among the worshipers, evening bringing an offering to the church. He was such an inspiration to watch.

The other is a lady named Martha. Martha is a member of the Ngora church, and loves the lord. Her favorite pastime is to read the Bible, but her eyesight is bad, and she has been unable to. She has no glasses, and has been saddened not to be able to read. At the last minute when I was packing in Wichita, I packed not only my eyeglasses, but also an extra pair of reading glasses. Jill introduced her to me to Martha, and I was able to give her the extra pair. There are no words to describe the pure joy she had to be able to read her Bible again.

God has been blessing each of us in many ways. There will be stories to tell for many weeks when we return.

Today, we are traveling to the Heritage International School, and then to Nampunge village to see the church built last year.

Pray that we continue to reach people for God!
Fred

Home visit in Kamuli town during the rain

2009-11-07T01:54:00.002-06:00

This little guy was bringing Jerry cans to help catch rainwater during a very heavy storm. By Kansas standards, it seems like a normal afternoon thunderstorm, but afterwards, there were many tree limbs laying in the roads.
MAKE SURE TO READ OUR OTHER POST UNDER "OLDER POSTS"!

Team 2

Kamuli Village

2009-11-06T22:36:00.001-06:00

Kamuli Village

We are back with the Stephensons in Kampala, tired, wet, muddy, but also the most blessed. Today we dedicated the Kamuli Central Community Church of God. The people of the new church met us early in the day, and we set about meeting with them in groups of men, women, and children. Through the generous donations of our friends, we were able to leave them with many gifts: shoes, shirts, socks (which went to the soccer team), and toys of every kind.
After we were able to fellowship with our groups, it was time for the dedication of the new building. Because of rain this week, we were unable to actually meet in the church building, but in a large tent just next to it. We knew it was time when we heard of the sound system, “check 1, 2….amen!” (The tech in me was so excited for them).
We entered the tent the honored guests, amid much praising, singing and dancing. We took our honored seats at the front of the congregations (facing them!), and the celebration began. Pastor Moses began to speak a powerful message of dedication for all that God has given them, and it was translated to those who did not speak English. Songs of praise were sung, and it was such a joyous time!
Then it was time to move to the church building. As we moved, the congregation was dancing, singing, and whooping praise to God. As we cut the ribbon, the excitement increased even more with clapping and praising God for His blessings.
We moved to the platform area, and the pastor of the church, along with Carl, prayed a prayer of dedication over the building. But what was as amazing as all of this excitement and praise, was what was going on around the outside of the building. Since rain had slowed the construction, work was going on even as the building was being dedicated. Work on scaffolding, workers mixing concrete, workers that were literally hanging in the rafters stopped their work during this time. These are people whose only association with the church is that of employment. Imagine their thoughts as they witnessed the movement of God through the body of believers. It was an amazing moment.
We returned to our tent service where we heard from various officials of the area, and then it was time for more celebration. The youth of the area presented a drama about the effect of AIDS that included interpretive movement, music, and singing. There was also a group of dancers that performed for the congregation.
Then it was time for our group. We presented the song “How Great is Our God” to the church, and it was well received.
The keynote speaker of the day was the Minister of Urban Development for Uganda. This is something that rarely happens. He spoke with many moving words, commending the Stephensons and the Kamuli church for working to share the Word of God with others.
After the ceremony, we walked through the jungle to the pastor’s home for dinner. Everyone has been most gracious with what little they have, and they are all so happy to see us. It is very humbling to be a part of this experience.
A three hour ride home, and here we are, ready for the next village. Anxiously awaiting what God has in store for us there!
Fred for team 2

As Fred has shared, our day of dedication was wonderful but for my part I will speak of working with the children. Those of you who are teachers, imagine working with a group of 40 students (that were supposed to be 25 but I’m used to that by now) that range in age from babies carried in their siblings’ arms to teenagers. Add to that fact that these are children who have NEVER attended school. Throw into the mix a “school” that consists of 4 benches in the middle of a field with no grass (a.k.a. mud) and the hot sun (or a monsoon rain) and you can imagine our first experience ‘teaching’. Oh, and your students don’t speak
English (I mean, really DON’T speak English) and there you have it!

Thankfully there were many more plusses than minuses because we were greeted with 40 beautiful, smiling faces who were eager to see what these crazy white ladies were going to do next! We had a beautiful translator (Rehaina I think although I’m not sure of the spelling) and she was a joy to work with. I found out that Rehaina was a former Muslim who was converted recently and had been a teacher for 2 years.

We shared the Kansas book that Brenda and Jill worked so tirelessly on and then played BINGO with three groups. We used macaroni for the BINGO holders and had to make sure to tell them not to eat it! The BINGO cards had pictures from the Bible and it was really gratifying to see our little students gazing at the pictures to match them on their boards. Getting them to yell “BINGO” was difficult at first but once they got the hang of it they didn’t want to stop!

As Jill, Alexis, Cassie and Olivia prepared for the next activity I led them in some songs. Actually Rehaina and I did that! Then it was on to making ‘tambourines’ with macaroni and paper plates. When they started shaking them and singing we knew that a special connection had been made!

We ended that session with bubbles and the parachute. That was a big hit and I’m sure they will enjoy the parachute (since Jill presented it to Rehaina at the dedication service) for many years to come.

I do have to mention our afternoon session. We were told that we would begin around 3 o’clock and that this group would be bigger – around 40. Of course I told Jill and the others that we should expect at least 60! (I’ve learned!)

We began with the Kansas book and this time asked if they had any questions. We had some funny ones (1st question was “where is your husband?” directed to me. It was nice to be able to say that he was with me this year in Africa!) At this point I want to mention that we had squeezed all of the children and benches in the shade of a tree because this was the hottest part of the day!

Next on the agenda was a story about Jesus calming the storm and all of a sudden the wind began to blow! (Great timing right?) Next we felt some raindrops but had experienced that before so we continued on. All of a sudden, rain came pouring down and our students rain home (I believe Rehaina shooed them home!) So, class was dismissed!!! Okay, all my teacher friends – have you ever got to go home because it rained! LOL

After that we ran to the van that was left (the other one had left with Colleen, Fred, Clint and Heather going on TAPP visits – visiting Aids patients) and poor Matt almost made it to the van but did a beautiful slide, not into home base but into the mud! We sat in the van while the rain poured and after it stopped Moses tried to back the van out but it was stuck! Oh, and while we were waiting, several very silly people ran out into the rain to ‘play’. I won’t mention their names (Joanie, Cassie and Olivia) but suffice it to say I’m sure they were the talk of the village!

The men who were working at the church came to try to push the van out and it took many tries. We finally climbed out of the van but found out later that they wanted our weight! When the van was free of the mud we ended up walking to the main road in the mud. I mention mud a lot because I seem to be spending a lot of time in it. And water! Oh, well, this is the rainy season, right?

We were finished for the day after that and went back to our ‘motel’. I have to comment on our accommodations because they were much nicer than we had anticipated. Our group stayed in an enclosed type of hostel where we had access to Western toilets (one of my personal favorite things) and cold showers – another wonderful asset! Fred and I were even fortunate to have a deluxe suite with a private bathroom (sink, toilet and shower) which we shared several times with Matt, Clint, Joanie, Jeannie, Grant, Jill and others for the sink – Carl and Greg. We even had evenings with technology!

As I type this breakfast is being served but I haven’t made it down yet and this is going to be a busy morning! We have been ‘shopping’ for treasures at the Stevensons’, our child of Promise (Jordan) is coming and more craftspeople will arrive soon! Plus we have to pack for a 4 day trip and get our totes ready for more teaching/home visits/services. So, I better wrap this up. I do want to say one more thing – our first day we were able to see our 2nd child of Promise, Recheal. What a blessing to see how much she has grown and learned. She wrote her ABC’s and numbers for me and she has only been in school for about 8 months!

We won’t be able to post again until Wednesday night but know that we are in constant contact due to Fred’s technology. We love you and miss you all! Know that we are where God wants us to be!
Team 2 and Valerie

We Made it!

2009-11-03T21:11:00.002-06:00

Have you ever watched the movie "Planes, Trains and Automobiles"? Two men are trying to get home for Thanksgiving and they have some adventures that felt similar to what we encountered over the weekend. Part of the movie even occurs in Wichita. We felt like we were part of this movie as we waited in the airport on Saturday and had some similar experiences throughout the weekend.

As most of you probably know, we arrived at the airport on Saturday with our bags, totes and more bags, ready for our adventure. The first thing we saw when we walked into the airport was that our flight was canceled! After a long three hour wait we were told that nothing could be done and that we would be leaving on Sunday. We were disappointed but knew that God was in control and figured there was a reason.

Sunday arrived and during church we learned that PART of our team would be going but the rest wouldn't. To make a LONG story short, six people left Sunday afternoon with some interesting stops (Dubai and Addis Ababa) and the rest of us (10 in all) left on our original day, Monday. So, I said all that to say, that we finally did make it and all 16 of us are now at the Stevensons' home! Praise God!

We have been told that we will be leaving this morning to spend two days in a village but more details will be coming later this morning. As we hear more, we will post that. This is just to let you know that we are here and are safe. Thank you for your prayers!

From Uganda for team 2, Valerie.

As Valerie has already told you, to say this has been an adventure already is a huge understatement. With each of the flights, we were exposed to an increasing amount of diversity, something that can get us out of our comfort bubble. I promised my FaceBook friends an update, so here it is!

We touched down in Entebbe about 8pm local time. ( We are 9 hours ahead of you if you are keeping track). From the time we stepped off the plane, we could tell this wasn't home. The sounds and the feel was just different. We got through customs (the first time I have ever been an immigrant), and continued out of the airport. Retrieve our luggage, and we are moving again.

We met our driver, David, at the front entrance. David is a great guy, with a great smile. He showed us to our bus, a large van really, and we loaded up.

Now I have heard about the driving conditions in Uganda, so I had to make sure I got the full exposure. Since no one was riding "shotgun", I took that role. What an experience. If you like roller coasters, I would definitely reccommend this. By this time, it is quite dark, and the drive was like nothing I had ever seen before. The smell of charcoal from the roadside grills, mixed with a large amount of deisel fumes, created quite a sensory experience.

There are people everywhere. Walking down the side of the road, standing in groups around grills, gathered in groups around their scooters - everywhere you look, even the side roads, there are people. I looked up information about Kampala, the city we are staying in, last year, and it is about 2 million strong. Most of them were on the streets. Our missionary, Tim, tells us that Kampala never really sleeps, but it is more accurate to say it rests. There are times when the amount of people and traffic are less, but by no means are the streets ever empty.

The posted speed limit is 50 kph. I know we were on the healthy side of that. Driving in Kampala can best be descibed as a cross between a good game of chicken, and a ballet. Many times, there looked to be no where to go, and suddenly the hole would open up, allowing us to move on.

Did I tell you about the people on the streets? Pedestrians just "go for it". I tend to think I have pretty good distance vision, as well as night vision, but a lot of times, I really couldn't tell who or what was just outside our headlights. Just like the cars, the people, just start moving towards a hole in the traffic, and go. This reminded me of the game Frogger. You couldn't really figure out how you got there, but somehow you did.

The most difficult time of the trip came when we stopped. By best counts, there were only two stoplights during the hour long drive from Entebee to our quarters. We stopped at the red light, and a young boy (8), came to the window with hands out. I couldn't tell what he was saying, but the motive was clear, he was asking for help. He was soon joined by a young mother (his?) carrying a small baby. I had heard from the groups last year, that this is common, and you have to ignore it. This was the hardest thing I have had to do. I am sure there will be other moments like that in the coming days.

Stay tuned for more! Fred

(Valerie again) We are going to wrap this up for now. Breakfast is in an hour although to me I should still be sleeping. I know from experience that I will soon get used to the new time but right now I'm still experiencing some jet lag and am a little foggy. We will be writing when we can. God is good and it looks like it's going to be a beautiful day here in Kampala, Uganda!

It Takes a Village...

2009-10-30T08:48:00.003-05:00

Monday found us headed east to Kabusule in the district of Bugwere. Alternately, dense foliage and tall trees encroaching on the road gave way to gently rolling hills iced with low grasses and dotted with palms followed by swampy areas overgrown with papyrus. New sights, sounds and smells mixed with the old, familiar ones compounded our sense of being far from home. Checkerboard fields of low-growing tea plants; food markets with fresh pineapple, mangos and tomatoes carefully piled one on top of another like blocks; almost identical strip malls with shanty door fronts in each town giving the impression of going in circles; everpresent smell of smoke; clusters of round thatched huts formed family neighborhoods; trees with leaf pom-poms at the end of each otherwise barren branch.

We stopped at the source of the Nile for lunch for a brief interlude. Crocodiles, black meribeau storks and white cranes cohabitate with many other unseen animals and birds as they draw life from the murky water of the Nile.

The first sight of the white hostel enclosing a lovely courtyard made us hopeful that our stay in Kabusule would include the luxuries of hot running water and flush toilets... But our initial excitement faded as we inspected our rooms and found neither. Still, a roof over our head and a bed off the floor during the rainy season was a blessing.

Our complaints shamed us when we arrived at the village and saw the living conditions in Kabusule which is twice as poor as Kasenke. Children with malnutritioned bellies in dirty rags made us so aware of our affluence. Even in poverty, they still sang and smiled when they saw the 'visitors.' The people live in very small, dirt floored, round huts.

It was quite different from our experience in Kasenke where the children met us. Here, women gleefully squealing in a high pitched warble and joyfully hugging us were our welcoming committee each day.

Again, we split our days with the men working on the church and the women doing crafts and playing games with the children and youth, sharing with the women about their lives and making TAPP and grandmother visits. It was during the home visits we could see how poorly the people live. Yet they have joy in the Lord and love to give Him praise. Efforts have been made to begin a project for the women to earn money, but, without education, they have not been very successful in managing their profits.

Because of heavy, blowing rain on the second day, the roof did not get completed for the dedication. However, we still joined with the congregation in celebration knowing soon the dream of a place of worship large enough to hold them all was very near. The church was festively decorated. Bunches of yellow flowers from nearby plants adorned the tops of sticks as you approached the church and were stuck in crevices in the walls.

Praising the Lord was a joyous occasion as we shared songs and laughter. We were presented with a goat, turkey, chicken, rabbit and various produce as gifts for our part in helping build their church. After the three hour service, lunch was served since it is tradition that if food is not given visitors when they leave, the friendship is broken.

We left our new friends in Kabusule on Thursday to spend our last night in Uganda at the Stevensons.

Everyone is now busily completing their packing after last minute shopping in Kampala. We're excited about seeing our families and friends after two weeks of being emotionally and physically challenged. However, we've already shed tears as we said goodby to 'Mama' Colleen since she left early for the Rain Festival with Dorothy from the Wizard of Oz (Alexis) and a couple of Bumblebees (daughter Tiffany and granddaughter Sahara)... I'm sure there'll be more wet eyes as we board the plane and fully realize we're leaving behind Africa and so many people we love.

Pray for safe travel. Blessings to all...

Let It Rain...

2009-10-26T01:31:00.003-05:00

We awakened to sunshine on Sunday anticipating another beautiful day. But God had other plans.

Our team was asked to split up so three churches could have visitors - the people here are ALMOST as excited to see us as they were to see the King! Just think how much commotion and celebration will accompany the return of the King of Kings!

Pastor John was assigned 'sermon duty' at Kasubi which is the Churoh of God East Africa headquarters. Cheri took on the responsibility at the Mutungo church which we built two years ago. And Jerry was 'pseudo-pastor' at Murchison Bay, where many orphans are schooled.

We arrived at the churches almost simultaneously with the rain. Inside the churches, some of us were protected from the pouring rain once inside the church, but the glassless windows at Murchison Bay and the driving wind had us shifting from side to side to avoid an unintentional baptism.

The rain pounding on the roofs was in harmony with the drums - a crescendo of hail added to the 'musical' mix of instruments and voices. The praise and worship continued until God calmed the storm. Then testimonies and messages were offered in each church - unaware of what each speaker would say, the theme was consistent. Amazing how we find God's hand in everything.

Following services, we all met in Mutungo for lunch and a program in our honor. Some of the Children of Promise made their way to their sponsors, recognizing them immediately even after a one or two year separation! More singing, dancing and sharing from the Children of Promise, the TAPP women and the Central Community Nursery students and teachers. What a wonderful work is being done here through all of these programs.

After the program, we met with the sponsored children - hugging, crying, laughing... The children are all so precious - it's heartbreaking to know many do not have sponsors and are unable to attend school or have any hope of a better life. In Norm's words, 'perhaps we need to learn to live with less so we can give more.' However, we also see such love and faith in these children that it's makes it hard to know what 'a better life' looks like. Praise God that through our faith we have the certainty of spending eternity with Him without the trials of this earth.

Our bags are being loaded on top of the vans as we prepare to leave for the next village. Keep us in your prayers as we leave for three nights in Kabasule.

Church of God Kasenke Dedication

2009-10-26T01:20:00.003-05:00

Pastor John cut the ribbon on the new Kasenke church as the crowd made a 'joyful noise!'

Let the Son Shine...

2009-10-24T13:51:00.010-05:00

Five days ago, our team, along with Tim, Coleen and Moses, crowded into three vehicles for the journey to the small village of Kasenke, in the district of Mubende. This is our story...

The drive to Kasenke took us past rows of crudely constructed wooden shacks leaning precariously and displaying an assortment of wares along with rusty tin roofed buildings and spindly thatched huts. The man-made world contrasted severely with the untouched and untamed landscape of lush tropical plants.

Children in school uniforms waved excitedly as we passed. Women, almost always in brightly printed dresses or skirts, carried water containers on their heads while men rode bicycles loaded with charcoal and bananas.

Annie, who works with Colleen at the District Office, is from Kasenke and met us in Mubende town where lodging had been arranged for us. The 'villa' had BEDS and RUNNING WATER with FLUSH TOILETS - a big step up from the tents we semi-expected. Even though there was no hot water in our showers, we could fill jugs from a large hot water tank in the middle of the complex. After we got unloaded, we headed for Kasenke.

Turning off the paved road, we bounced over the ruts in the narrow dirt road on the last leg of our journey to the village. As soon as our vehicles came into view, the people began chanting 'we are welcome' as in one united voice and swarming around us. 'Welcome' was pronounced with three syllables - 'welecome'... every day we were greeted in the same manner with the same enthusiasm - how very special we felt! All the children wanted to touch our white skin and soaked up our attention. How humbling it was to have even the tiniest of girls kneeling in respect before us as they held our hand...

Our days were busy - mornings in the village were filled with working on the church, teaching and playing with the children and TAPP visits. TAPP is a Church of God program which gives aid and hope to people diagnosed as HIV+. Afternoons found us divided up again to work on the church, lead the women and meet with the pastors.

It was easy to fall in love with the children. So many beautiful barefoot children of all ages wearing tattered, dirty clothing excitedly joined in the games and activities. We found them all to be attentive and, although their surroundings were very primitive, they learned quickly with the aid of the interpreters.

As we took turns visiting homes of TAPP clients and grandmothers, we experienced a plethora of emotions. We were up close and personal as we sat and visited with them. From a distance, the settings are quietly picturesque, but, as you get closer, they are quickly transformed into pictures of overwhelming poverty. Their houses are crude structures of cane frames packed with mud (some are plastered with dung). Usually a single room with dirt floors houses an entire family. To see the conditions in which they live is heartbreaking, especially knowing their lives are at risk without medications. Most don't have the 20,000 shillings to register for treatment.

Our lunches and dinners were spent up the hill at Pastor Fred's, the superintendent of the district. We ate beneath the sprawling canopy of a tree with battery powered lights hung from the limbs and alternate nights displayed heavenly lights from stars or lightning.

Pastor John and Cheri met with the pastors and discovered a real need for material in their native language - they hunger for more information and training so they can preach God's Word more effectively.

The women responded enthusiasticly to our efforts to engage them in sharing. We found them to be like us in so many ways and bonds of friendship were quickly formed. They seemed pleased that we asked them to demonstrate how to make mats from swamp grass and how to weave table coverings. They're all so outgoing and full of life and love.

We were amazed at the speed with which the 80 tin sheets became a roof! The floor took a little longer as a platform was constructed, rocks were moved and dirt was leveled. The village boys loved to assist with the wheelbarrow in returning it for another load of rocks after it had been emptied onto the church floor. The privilege to man the wheelbarrow was so prized, the men on the team had to good-naturedly manage the queue of over-eager boys. Even the women, many with babies tied on their backs, and smaller children of the village helped shovel and carry bricks. What a blessing to see the procession of our team members intermingled with the villagers as we worked together. Language, culture and skin color became unimportant. Our God is big enough to break down all the barriers.

After the scrim (cloth screen) our church purchased for Tim and Colleen was stretched on a LARGE wooden frame, the Jesus movie enthralled the entire village. The next night, another movie entertained them - the only thing missing was popcorn!

Although a heavy rain shower on the second day delayed pouring the concrete for the floor, the church was otherwise complete and provided the setting for the dedication service. Officials and pastors from neighboring villages had been invited to share the joy. It was a time of singing, dancing, celebrating and exchanging of gifts. Cheri, as our leader, was presented with a male goat which she graciously accepted while others were given chicken. The menagerie was secured on top of the van and, based on the bleating, road uncomfortably all the way to Kampala.

Only intermittent rain showers interrupted our bright, sunny days, but we saw the Son always shining in the faces and lives of those we tearfully left behind in Kasenke.

We came as visitors to the small village - we left as friends.

As we traveled home, there were excited people lining the roads in all the small villages awaiting a peek at the King of the tribe of Buganda. They had worked themselves into quite a frenzy since the King had been expected much earlier. We carefully made our way through the crowds, dodging the oncoming parade of motorcycles and other vehicles preceding the King's personal vehicle. Some of our team actually caught a glimpse of him as he passed. We were all glad to make it safely back to the Stevensons - thanks to our excellent drivers, Tim, Colleen and Moses.

Our story continues tomorrow as we head to our second village...

NOTE TO DEBBIE PAULY FROM LARRY: Wart hog dog is alive and well, but still can't kiss!

In Uganda Again!

2009-10-19T08:28:00.003-05:00

Our long trip began at 5:00 AM Wichita time on Saturday, the 17th... Fifteen of us - all a little sleepy, but excited about the opportunities ahead of us, met at the church, loaded up our baggage and headed to the airport. Our orange t-shirts attracted a lot of attention at each stop and allowed many of us to visit with others about our mission. Arriving in Entebbe, we found a much more modern airport than we remembered. Praise God that ALL our tubs and luggage arrived at the same time we did! Certainly, for Pastor John and Debbie, their reunion with their daughter, Alexis, was a far greater blessing than the luggage! Alexis has been serving with missionaries Tim and Colleen since September.

The familiar smell of smoke from charcoal fires and sounds of screeching brakes wafted through the open windows of the vehicles as we were transported through the darkness to the home of our host missionairies. Blurs of brightly dressed people, glimpses inside open roadside stands, visions of bright lights, burned into our senses as we flew past.

Our long trip ended when we finally arrived in Kampala, Uganda on Sunday, October 19th around 10:30 PM Kampala time (2:30 in Wichita) after an hour ride from the airport... Fifteen of us - all a little sleepy, but excited about the opportunities ahead of us to touch the lives of those we meet.

For those of us who have been here before, reunions with Tim and Colleeen, Glenna (missionary nurse), Pastor Moses (who was in Wichita last summer) and so many others were joyful... like coming home.

A sunny Monday morning revealed the beauty of our surroundings. It came early for some being awakened by the 'laughing' birds and crowing roosters, others managed to sleep in before starting our busy day of preparations. All the crafts and gifts we brought crammed into 15 plastic tubs had to be sorted and divided for the two villages we will be visiting. Miss Brenda's preliminary planning and amazing teamwork resulted in a stress-free time with everything ready before supper giving us plenty of time to pack for tomorrow's journey west to the village of Kasenke. We'll be spending four nights there building a church and friendships. Our team will be assisting with roofing and flooring of the church along with leading activities for all ages and visiting AIDS patients.

Brenda and Hannah were surprised by the arrival of two Children of Promise during our orientation... Both children sat quietly with excitement in their eyes while we finished up our meeting. The adults were just as excited! What a joy! (Hannah met with Carol Bentley's child while Brenda got some quality time with hers.)

We ask for your prayers as we start our next adventure tomorrow.

Packing Complete - Uganda, Here We Come

2009-10-14T14:15:00.005-05:00

It's been a busy week of preparations. Sunday evening's Gospel Music for Missions event was a big success! Contributions were given to cover the cost of the laptop for the missionaries, the screen to show the Jesus Film on, the water drill bit, the two drills that are to replace those that were stolen, and the four study Bible to be presented to each of the pastors at the churches we are finishing and dedicating this year. In addition to those generous gifts, there was an offering taken up for the teams for projects God will show us during our journeys. Over $6000 was raised for these special projects! We praise God and thank each of you who gave so generously.

Last evening both teams met to pack the totes with gifts for Children of Promise, new tools, project materials for the kids, gifts for women and men and even much more! Team One brought their luggage which was weighed and packed away till this weekend. We were able to pack up an incredible amount of items and we feel great about all the things we are bringing with us this year.

Travel begins for Team One on Saturday morning. We will meet at the church at 5:00 am and set off for two days of air travel. We hope to arrive in Entebbe, Uganda Sunday evening.

Preparations Are Being Made for the 2009 Trips

2009-10-02T14:54:00.003-05:00

Team One will leave October 17 for Uganda. During their first week, they will travel back to Kasenke church in the Western region of Uganda. The Kasenke Church had to relocate because of a dispute over land ownership so two years ago many of our team began work on the foundation for the new church building. On this trip, they will complete the building and dedicate the church along with working with the kids, youth, women and men, TAPP (Tumaini AIDS Prevention Program)visits, and pastoral training sessions. On Sunday, they will worship with the Mutungo Church, visit Children of Promise and then on Monday depart for Kabaule Church in Bugwere. After a week of completing the building of this church along with ministry opportunities, this church will also be dedicated.

Team Two leaves Wichita on October 31. They will complete the church building in Kamuli Town in East Uganda. They, too will have ministry opportunities with the kids, women, youth, men and pastors along with TAPP home visits. After a church dedication service, this group will depart for Ngora near Kumi. Along with ministry opportunities, they will complete the church and have a church dedication service. They will return to Nampunge which was built by 2008's Team Two, reconnect with the people there, have programs and lunch with them and then return to Kampala.

Please be in prayer for our teams and come and show your support at our Gospel Music for Missions Night on Sunday, October 11. We will have a carry in dinner at 6:00 pm in the Atrium, followed by worship and a focus on this year's trip to Uganda.

Our hearts break as we say goodbye to Africa once again

2008-10-10T07:25:00.001-05:00

What an incredible journey the last 30 days has been for our church and the 32 team members who traveled to Uganda Africa. We have gone from fears of the unexpected, weeks before our travels began, to the over powering of emotions that can’t be explained or understood. We have seen and heard many new things that at times sent confusion to team members and at times so much laughter that we could not breath.

We have had the privilege to visit many different villages and schools while here: Nyrambie, Awillow, Nebbi Town, Nampunge, Kasula, Busuujja, Kasubi, and Heritage International to name a few. We have spent time with the women, children, and pastors in order to help us understand and appreciate the life these Ugandan people live. We worked side by side with them in efforts to build stronger communities and to build lasting friendships in the name of Jesus Christ. We worshipped with them and gave praise to God for all He does for each of us each day. We are all God’s children whether we live in the US or Africa. We might not speak the same languages, but God understands us all.

We have seen many levels of poverty and what we in America would consider unthinkable living conditions. Water that is so unclean even the Ugandan’s can not drink it. Homes so small and have so many people crowed into them that there is no room for furnishings. Food in the city is expensive and hard to come by when your yearly wages are less than we as Americans spend eating out one meal. Work is hard to find and many have opened businesses in hopes of just feeding their children each day. With the number of vendors selling the same products right next to each other the competition is high and you must cut prices to in order to sell anything. Each day the total of their sales might feed some of their children and does not come close to paying for rent and school fees, so many people live on the floor of their shops. Bathing conditions are no more than a bucket of water to wash up in. And the bathroom facilities are a hole in the ground that most of the time you share with flies and mosquitoes.

The many different medical facilities experienced by the teams were at best scary. They ranged from small clinics to one of the largest complexes we had ever seen. Some were for children only and some had a wing for every kind of problem. Each was as if you had walked into a movie about WWI. The very large wards with no less than 30 metal beds full of people; with personal care givers sleeping on the floor beside their loved one. The screams of babies sick and hurting fill the air. The smell of human waste and the site of the dead in hallways waiting for family to claim them, was more than our hearts could take.

We’ve witnessed the most beautiful sunrises and sunsets, as can only be seen in the skies of Africa. The colors and textures of the country side so lush and green. We have seen the natural habitats of Gods creatures as they were meant to be seen, not behind fences or living in cages.
We have been shown true friendship and felt the warmth of other peoples souls exposed at its most vulnerable times of life. We have seen the beginnings of new life and of the finality of death. We witnessed 100’s beginning baptized. We have been accepted and loved by the people of Uganda.

We have grown closer to people we see on Sunday’s for years, but never really took the time to know these people before now. 32 people will forever be tied to a place and time, to an experience greater than ourselves.

We shared laughter and tears, excitement and discouragement, aching backs and aching hearts. We worked hard, played hard, and learned to adapt to the many personalities among the teams and the at times very strange culture differences. We explored new and interesting foods, and some tested our true missionary spirit at times. But we did not seem to lose any of those extra pounds we thought we might. We did eat a lot and often as each group of people wanted to share their thanks by way of food.

We met the little lives that we sponsor and now those pamphlets have real faces, little hands, big eyes, and very hurt expressions as to the lives they endure. They also have very big smiles when pictures are taken and small packages are opened. A piece of candy brings the biggest thanks you will ever receive. Can we really make a change to the little lives of Uganda? I think we all saw first hand the lives we personally have impacted so far, and gave us the encouragement to continue to fight for the future of these children.

Many of the children have many fears here like being female, as many things happen to them like rape, being beaten, and not being given the chance to get an education because they are a girl. They all have seen war, death of family members from Aids, and poor relationships of their parents. They see parents in drunken states and abuses of mothers by fathers. They can see this cycle of poverty and are hopeful that change can happen, but as they get older they are pulled in many directions and many times fall right back into the cycle.

The culture is so strong and so present in everything they do, from the daily chores of gathering water to the rich excitement of music and dance. The sear skill it takes to play the drums, sing and dance; and they can do it all as each skill continues to be passed down from generation to generation.

As Americans we seem to come with the intention to teach and to show new things to a 3rd world nation. A nation so seemingly behind the modern times we feel compelled to show them the way things should be done. Instead we leave here having learned so much about ourselves, our shortcomings, our mistakes, and how far we have to go to gain what these people already possess, love and compassion of the heart and for one another.

The 2 team’s dynamics were completely different from personalities, expectations, management styles, leadership styles, personal comfort zones, skill sets, and attitudes. But the mission was the same, to change lives. If truth be told it was our lives that were changed the most.

On behalf of Teams 1 and 2 the time has come once again to say with tears in our eyes and much love in our hearts Goodbye for another year. We take with us untold images that will forever be burned into our hearts and minds. You will be in our thoughts and prayers. Until we meet again

Thank you so much for the love, support, and prayers you have said for the two teams.
God Bless and keep you in His everlasting arms

With Much Love Kimberly
And
Team 1 Cheri, Larry, Tammy, Jeff, Janell, Teri, Genda, Emily, Jen, Debbie, Fredo, Delbert, Dan, Seth, Tim, Bill
Team 2 John, Debbie, Alexis, Brenda, Patti, Valerie, Steve, Carolina, Hilary, Heather, Carl, Mark, Scott, Chris, Grant

An apple a day...........

2008-10-09T16:39:00.001-05:00

We have seen many different facilities in regards to health care in Uganda. The village medical clinics were filled with Malaria, Syphilis, HIV, and expecting mothers. The doctors that came with us are used to treating running noses, coughs, and the occasional cut needing stitches. The rooms are about 10x10 and have 3 or 4 patients in them. You might have a mix of HIV, Malaria and a woman in labor in the same room. Those with less threatening needs must wait hours for treatment and some wait and sleep on mats over night while waiting. Cost depends on services rendered but usually a few thousand shillings.

The children’s hospital is a place where children are taken for birth defects, serious injuries and accidents. One might see large tumors on the faces of very sweet little girls, small baby‘s that have major burns from crawling into an open fire, or a little boy who at a year old contracted polio and after crawling for 8 years in the dirt was able to have the surgery to fix his legs. The facility was outdated and the wards had about 15 beds in each one. A family member must stay to take care of the child but food does come with the daily charge. They did have a workshop were they made wheelchairs and braces for little legs. In order for the children to keep up with studies there is a classroom for the kids and a teacher to help them. What a great improvement in this culture. This was a place were there was hope as most of these children had waited years in order to get the medical help they needed. The true heart break is actually the little ones still out there hurting and with broken bodies that have not been helped yet.

The next facility was run by the Catholic Church and had very pretty grounds. Again the facilities were very outdated kind of like when you watch a movie from the 40’s. But it was clean.

The next was a hospital where we took a baby for his immunizations. Heaven was here as we saw no less than 100 babies all waiting with their mothers. It was a very hot day and many of these women had been waiting at least 2 or 3 hours already. They promote whole family values so if a woman comes with her husband they get to move to the front of the line. Fathers are not generally family oriented so this is their way of trying to get them involved.

The last hospital seemed the worse one. It is a state owned facility and is free for the bed but everything else must be provided for by the family. It can take many many hours to be seen or admitted. Babies crying from being in pain and sick waiting in the hot sun are the sounds one might hear. If the doctor prescribes meds the family many times must go get it and bring it back to their loved one. The family is also responsible to feed the sick family member and must stay and take care of their every need. The family member will sleep on the floor under the patents bed. If you have ever watched a horror movie where the main character was being chased at a hospital this was it. The halls were very long and dark. The wards were huge with maybe 30 or more beds and very few nurses. The floors were dirty and the equipment that looked to be from WWI. The thoughts were if we get sick please just let me die don’t bring us here. As we walked the halls an eerie feeling was inside us just wanting to leave to get out. And the smells of human waste penetrated our senses. It was the one of the scariest places felt on the trip. At times dead bodies are left in the halls waiting for family to claim them.

Next time you have to wait a little longer for the doctors appointment or need to go to the hospital you might remember the people in Uganda. You might just go with a different attitude.

Much Love Kimberly

October 10, 2008

2008-10-09T16:02:00.000-05:00

This will be my final blog from here in Kampala, Africa. I can't believe how fast the time has flown! It seems like we just got here and we are almost ready to depart. In fact, by this time tomorrow evening we will be on our way back!

Today was a relaxing day of massages, shopping, pizza and movies. Tim and Colleen have been so good to us. They planned a wonderful day of relaxation and we all took advantage of it. Some of us went shopping in the morning while the others had massages and then in the afternoon we switched and the rest of us visited some shops. Such wonderful items for sale and helpful business people. I'm afraid I probably disappointed many of them because I'm just not good at doing the bargaining but we have several who are very good at it including Hilary, Chris and Scott. I do have to add Carolina because Steve mentioned to me that she was looking at a particular item and when the shopkeeper wouldn't bargain she left, hoping to find the item in another place!

When we all met back after our enjoyable day, Tim and Colleen had ordered pizza and made the most wonderful chocolate dessert. So delicious!

Then Tim set up his 'big screen TV' (projector and wall) and we watched “Blood Diamond”. It had special meaning for us since much of it was filmed in Africa (probably most of it) and it was a moving film about the diamond trade here in Africa.

Following the movie Brenda led us in a wrap-up type of devotional and talked about thankfulness by sharing areas and talents that each one of us brought to this team. It was very moving and we ended the evening by making a bead bracelet to represent God's love and faith in us. Patti led us in two songs and then Carl closed us in prayer. Our worship here has been so marvelous; God has truly touched us and been in our midst!

Tomorrow will be a busy day as we will be getting up to go to the church that the teams from last year built and see the students from the Central Community Preschool. Those of us who sponsor a child (and I believe it's most of us) will be meeting our students and we are all excited about that. For those of you at CCC who also sponsor a child we will be greeting them tomorrow and presenting them with your gifts.

After a program and a few other events we will be rushing back to the Stevenson's to change, grab our suitcases and head to the airport. With the terrorist alert that Kampala has been under we want to be sure to get there in plenty of time. Speaking of that, in case you have heard about that, be assured that the police and other military personnel are doing their jobs. We have seen more police in the past few days and we can see that they are taking security very seriously. None of us feel worried for two main reasons: God is in control and our wonderful missionaries are following His lead. Praise God!

Well, for the last time from Uganda, thanks for reading the blog and praying for us. We will see you soon!

Valerie

October 9, 2008

2008-10-08T16:43:00.000-05:00

We made it out of the jungle and back at the Stevenson's! What a fantastic time of seeing another beautiful part of God's world and the amazing animals that He created for us to enjoy!

We left @ 7:00 a.m on Monday morning in two safari buses. As we bounced along we all wondered what would happend and hoped that we would see many different types of animals. When we came to the equator we all got out and took our pictures and did some shopping. A few of us paid 200 shillings for the privilege of using a Western toilet; then the businessman didn't give us our change! OH, well.

We stopped for lunch at a village/town along the road and had some great American type food. I even had French fries with real ketchup. Yum! Mark had a 'pizza' that was closer to a thick tortilla shell but he pronounced it as 'delicious'. Several of the others had onion rings and a few tried more exotic fare (Patti had something with lentil beans and Heather ate 'chicken on fire'). Everything was really delicious and best of all; another clean Western type bathroom. :-) (As you can see it's the simple things that make us grateful).

After about eight or so hours of traveling (it could have been longer but I lost count) we arrived. The name of the park is Queen Elizabeth Park. We started seeing animals such as zebras (along our way), monkeys and large herds of elephants. That was so exciting because we were so close to them that if they would have been in the mood to charge us we would have been vulnerable. As it was we were able to put the roof up on the bus, stand up and enjoy the beautiful weather and scenery and get some great photos.

After checking into our rooms and eating supper (along with a devotional time) we all went to bed since we were to be up and ready to leave @ 6:30 the next morning.

We met in the morning and drove around and found many more types of animals: (hopefully I get all the names right) water buffalo, wart hogs (ask Hilary about getting real close to take their pictures!), a type of deer, and lions! That was so exciting. We stopped when we saw other groups looking across a lake at them and it was really hard to see them but we tried. After a few minutes we got back in the buses and our guides took us to another spot where we saw several lions – two or three females and two or three cubs. This time we were closer and were able to get some great shots. In our bus we were praising God because we had been asking Him to show us different types of animals and within a few minutes He did. What a great God we serve! He cares enough about us to answer even those types of prayers.

After our great morning we went back to the hostel where we were staying for some breakfast. Then we had time to explore or rest until lunch at the lodge and then off for a boat ride @ 5:00. Some people did rest but others went and checked out the museum that was on the grounds and some went to the lodge.

Our late lunch was very nice at the lodge and we were able to eat on the veranda where many birds tried to join us, even coming around when someone would leave their plate unattended. A mongoose was found under the table and one of our group (not saying his name but his initials are “Chris Hanson”) even fed it and we got some great pictures.

At 5:00 we all went on the boat and enjoyed a two hour cruise on the canal that is between Lake Edward and Lake George. During our cruise we saw many, many groups of hippos and tried to get some good pictures of them opening their mouths! Many large crocodiles were spotted close to the hippos and other animals which made us wonder how they all seemed to be so peacefully cohabitating. Probably the answer is that our guide told us that crocodiles only eat around once every three months so the animals must have felt safe! :-)

We saw many types of birds and one that seemed especially impressive was the African Bald Eagle: very similar to our Bald Eagle. It looked so majestic whether it was flying around us or sitting in a tree.

On a hillside we were fortunate to see a group of hyenas. They were very difficult to see with the naked eye but with a zoom lens one could see them and take their pictures.

We all agreed that the boat ride was relaxing and very enjoyable and a great way to end the day.

This morning we got up even earlier and left @ 6:00 a.m! We were hoping to see some chimpanzees and when we pulled up in front of a couple of huts and two guides with guns ran out throwing on their shoes we had no idea what to expect. They joined us in our buses and after driving a few miles away our drivers stopped and everyone got out. I wondered (as did a few others) what we were doing.

Imagine my surprise when we were told we were going INTO the jungle to track chimpanzees! Me, with my green flip flops! Hilary changed her shoes as did a few others, but alas, I had left my tennis shoes back in Kampala! I know, great planning!

I toyed with the idea of staying in the bus but then decided that I wasn't coming to Africa and wasting this wonderful opportunity! So, thanks to Dr. Steve, my dear new friend Patti and our guide with the gun, Jack, I made it down the slippery slope! They held onto me when the going got tough. That is true love for your fellow man!

We were really in luck! Our guides led us to an area where we saw three chimpanzees grooming themselves. We watched them for a while and then they decided to come down the tree and cross the bridge (think “Indiana Jones”) that we had just crossed to look for food! They found it. It happened to be coleus monkeys and we were witnesses to the screams and yells that the chimps made as they got excited (over finding the monkeys or calling to each other; I'm not sure) but the chimps were successful and a mama monkey lost her baby this morning!

To witness something like that and the chimps in their habitat was such a unique and unforgettable experience! We will never forget it.

After that we went back to the buses, took some pictures, and drove our guides back to their huts with many thanks. Then it was time to get on the road again. We ate lunch at the same American type restaurant on the way back and then did a little roadside shopping on the way.

Driving through Uganda is such an experience of holding on to your seats, trying not to gasp at all the bumps and sharp turns (or when a cow runs into the road) that I am sure when we get back to America we will all be so thankful for the good roads that we have there! Just going through Kampala takes an hour and traffic is just horrendous. We have been told that Kampala is under a terror alert but we know that God has his loving hands around us. That is the only way to explain how we keep making it safely back to the Stevenson's. That, and the wonderful drivers we have here!

I know that this blog was a little long but I wanted to share some details of the safari that we experienced and let you know that we are all healthy (except for a cold that Brenda has picked up) and looking forward to coming back to America and sharing in more detail what God has done in us and through us. What an awesome God we serve!

Well, it is late and except for Alexis (who is watching a movie) I am the only one up so I think I will sign off for now. Thanks so much for your comments on the blog. We enjoy reading them and knowing that you all are praying for us.

In God's loving shelter,
Valerie

My new favorite perfume is "Off Insect Repellent"

2008-10-05T15:34:00.002-05:00

Sorry this is a long one as we were gone for so long.

It has been a long week here in the pearl of Africa. On Wed morning we were given the opportunity to go into a high school room at Kasubi. We were there to teach social studies. One might think these kids are very much behind the times and not really on top of current events. If you have that mind set you would be wrong. These kids asked questions that our kids probably don’t know or understand. Some of the questions were about racism, conflict, the war, Bin Laden, nuclear weapons and how we became a super power. They were interested to know how we broke away from England as Uganda was also a commonwealth of England. They wanted to know how our government is run and how we felt about this year’s presidential election. They wanted to understand our way of free time and what that really meant as they start their days before dawn and get home as the sun sets. They use candles to do their homework by, and clean up to start over the next day. The whole concept of having time to watch TV or play games was to say the least very unusual to them. They wanted to know if we had deeply rooted culture in America. I had to say that we are such a melting pot of many different backgrounds that we really don’t have specific cultural traditions anymore. The one question that was very funny was “did aliens from mars land in New York” I told them no it was New Mexico Ha Ha.

Nampunge Village

We didn’t have to travel but an hour to get to our village this time. We worked on the church that was already in progress. We arrived to find the columns built and some of the floor work done. To our absolute amazement the church was almost complete by dedication on Sunday. Mainly the men worked on the church. I went over one of the afternoons and helped move dirt. Let me tell you that was a job. One of the funniest times was when the last load of dirt had been delivered. John Henry ( Senior Pastor) stepped in front of me as I was shoveling and said “ here move” , Ok those of you who really know me understand I don’t take that lightly as I am a very hard worker and had just as much dirt on my shovel as the men. So John stepped in like he was gonna really get this job done and on the first scoop his shovel broke in his hands. I just had to laugh. To save face he kept shoveling with just the actual shovel head. He finally turned to me and said I could go ahead and finish.

I was very fortunate to be able to spend some time in the medical clinic that they have there at the village. It is unbelievable the conditions that this health clinic is in and still considered a health facility. When you come to a clinic or hospital you must bring everything you will need while you are there. Including someone to take care of you, feed you, bath you, and help you use the bathroom. If you are there to have a baby you must bring cotton to clean you and the baby up with, a blanket to put the baby in or your clothes will be used as a blanket, and any thing else that is needed. A person with non-critical needs could sit for a day or more before care is given.
The types of cases we saw in one afternoon were many cases of Malaria, Typhoid, HIV diagnosis and 4 women in labor. All are within a few feet of each other. Stop and imagine a newborn in the same room as someone with the high fever of malaria?
I was fortunate to get involved with two of the women in labor. One was 19 and this was her first child. The other was 22 and this was her second. I walked and talked with both and both were then taken to the “labor room” (a sheet away from the rest of the people). I sat and helped each one breath through their pain. I rubbed their backs and gave them support.
The first to deliver was the 19 year old to a beautiful little girl. The mother was kind enough to allow me to stay for the event and was very to let me hold the baby. It is the story of the 22 year old that breaks my heart. She already had a 2 year old son waiting for her at home. She was in extreme pain, and ladies these girls are tough as nails, they never once screamed in pain. They controlled it all. This mom was in a lot of pain and I was rubbing her back trying to help reduce it for her. I put a cool towel on her head to help make her more comfortable. She would smile and thank me. Her water broke but the baby never came.
The “Dr” there, really he is a PA, said he would check her in 4 hours. And still no baby. As Americans we understand that after 4 hours of this situation we would most likely be taken for a C section. This young mother was left there for the next day and a half. We had no say as to what to do. The baby’s heart rate of course got very weak. Finally the “Dr” sent her to the city to the hospital. The midwife said most likely neither the baby nor the mother will survive. I was completely heart broken as I had become close to this girl, and now she was just gone because of senseless ignorance. The price is about 5000SCH =$3.

Family members and even patients sit under trees on mats if the clinic is full. As you become less critical you are moved to the yard. Some are there to get shots for whatever they have. So since it is so expensive to travel back and forth if you need a shot every 6 hours you get the shot and sit around for the next shot. If you need them for three days you are sleeping under the stars until your treatment is over.

One of the sweetest things I saw was a little girl had been given a doll by one of the team members. She wrapped it up in a piece of cloth and immediately started pretending to breastfeed the doll. She was doing what she knew. Here in America you see little girls grab for a bottle, but here in Uganda you see the purest most natural things. We are so worried about one of the most natural, normal acts there is that our children don’t understand what really happens and how they were most likely given sustenance as babies.

I was also given the honor of working with many women in many villages. They usually sit down look at us like “sure these rich white women are going to tell us western ways to do things”. Soon they understand we have more in common than they thought. We all have trouble with kids as they grow up and rebellion. We all have issues in marriage, and we all seem to be the backbone of the family.

We did crafts with them and one was to decorate flip flops. Taking strips of cloth and tie them to the flip flop. Ok so some of them looked at us as though we had lost our minds. Looks like “what are they doing asking us to tie this to our shoes, don’t they know we could use that cloth?” But then others where very excited to get creative with the different colors and such. They got so excited when they were done they danced around showing off their shoes.

Another craft we did was creating color of faith necklaces.
Black = Our sin, Red= the blood of Christ, White= a pure life washed clean, Blue= our faith in Christ Jesus, Green= Continue to grow in Christ, Yellow= our eternal life in heaven, Purple= the majesty of Christ.

For the most part none of the women can read or write so we went over these numerous times and with this necklace they can share their walk of faith with others.

They did have many questions of us. And as always the question of our hair comes up. Is it real? How do you get it so long? Can you tell us how we can get hair like yours? Other questions are in regards to abuse of husbands to wives and how we deal with it? Can they come to America and change to become white? How do we bury people, why do we only have 2 or 3 children? This is the question that we are waiting for as I have learned. This gives us the perfect opportunity to talk about family planning. And yes we went into detail. I sat through the missionaries’ lesson once and for 4 more groups of women I was giving family planning lessons. Their biggest fear is their husbands will go find new wives of they do not continue to produce children. But that is another lesson in itself.

On Sunday, today, we dedicated the church we went to help build. As I said earlier it was about half way finished when we arrived. Today the walls were up to the headers above the windows, the roof was on and the floor was level. What an amazing couple of days to see the amount of work done in such a short time. Each church shared testimonies, songs of praise and gifts of thanks to each other. The one thing that most churches here do not have is places to baptize people. This church was given a baptizing pool. For many the travel to distant churches to be baptized is a great expense and for many they are unable to make that journey. John Henry of CCC and pastor Patrick of Muntunge began the baptism and the line grew longer and longer. Many other churches in the area including Mutungo, the church we helped to build last year came to participate. The line seemed to never end. Today we baptized 100 people to Gods army. Some have wanted years for this final pubic proclamation that Christ is first in their lives. I think I heard the singing and dancing as the heavenly angels celebrated this day. So many things again we take for granted in America. The emotions were great and many of the visitors had many tears rolling down their cheeks as we had never witnessed such an act of love and surrender to Gods love.

The team is off to a safari and will load the bus at 7am. I will be out and about Kampala visiting the children’s hospital tomorrow.

Please continue to keep us all in your prayers
Much Love Kimberly
.

October 5, 2008

2008-10-05T12:53:00.001-05:00

Wow, what a day of celebration! The service here was so beautiful, exotic and so unique from what we experience in America. We heard many words of greeting from pastors here and sang songs as we cut the ribbon to enter the church. Our group was given a place of honor at the front of the church. The congregation had decorated the church with palm leaves and balloons and it looked beautiful!

Hilary sang a lovely solo “Eye on the Sparrow” and then Kimberly gave her testimony. Patti and Alexis led the congregation in an echo song and then a quartet made up Carl, Debbie, Grant and I (Valerie) sang “Great is Thy Faithfulness”. Grant then gave his testimony.

There were other wonderful parts to the service with everything being translated by either Moses or Adrian – wonderful interpreters! Then Pastor John preached and it was wonderful watching him preach and then hearing his words being spoken with the same enthusiasm. Very powerful.

The service (which began a little before noon and ended around 4:30 or so) included a baptism ceremony that was unlike anything we had ever seen. I lost count of how many were baptized but suffice it to say, it was more than most of us had seen at one service. It was wonderful to see God working in so many people's lives. He is Lord of all of us, not just in America but here in Uganda, too.

Oh, before I forget I want to share with you the gifts that we received. From the Nampunge church we received a big clock with the flags of the USA and Uganda inside with a message. Pastor John received a goat and a huge bunch of bananas. I'm not sure how we will get the goat home! LOL (I'm just kidding; I know it stays here).

After the baptism the entire congregation went outside and Carl took the cover off of the dedication plaque. What a wonderful moment!

We are back at the house now and just finishing up supper. The food has been so delicious. Any thoughts of losing weight these two weeks are going right out the window! We will be having devotions soon and will be packing for our safari tomorrow!

Our trip will begin at 7:00 a.m. and will be about a seven hour trip to Queen Elizabeth Park. Although we are tired we are looking forward to it.

I am told we will have some time to get on the internet so I will see if I can blog. If not, we will be back in touch on Wednesday evening.

God is so good and He is working through the lives of His precious people here in Uganda. The others who have come before us were right; we will be leaving our hearts here with the lovely people here.

In God's love and grace and will,

Valerie

October 4, 2008

2008-10-04T12:27:00.000-05:00

We are back at the Stevenson's after several very exciting days in the village of Nampunge! So much to tell and so many wonderful sights that we saw. I know that I will leave things out but please be assured that we are safe and sound and enjoying a reunion with hot water/toilets! No, really, with Hilary and Heather. They have had some exciting adventures of their own. They went with Glenna and visited many medical clinics so we're anxious to hear their tales.

We still have a group that is on their way back from Nampunge. Colleen brought six of us back to her home and the others stayed until a little more work was finished on the church. It is beautiful! I am so looking forward to the dedication tomorrow, as we all are. We almost had Pastor John convinced that visiting pastors had to sing before their sermon but we gave in and told him it was a joke!

Dr. Steve and Dr. Carolina had quite a visit with the medical clinic in Nampunge. They saw two new cases of AIDS, some malaria patients and even one with typhoid. They fielded some interesting questions about being doctors in America. They will have much to share when they return. Just an extra side note on that: the clinic is open 24 hours a day and we have heard many babies crying all night long. Plus several were born while we were there.

We came back tonight because the ladies of the church have spent so much time feeding us that in order for them to have time to prepare a feast for tomorrow's dedication service we needed to go back to Kampala! The food has been wonderful and we have tried many new and exotic dishes. The villagers have been so wonderful, loving and giving. We have felt so loved and welcomed.

The children are so precious. Everywhere we go we see them and they watched us in the medical center where we were staying. If you looked outside you could see them looking in and they love it when you wave to them. It's a special wave and it took a few of us (not mentioning any names!) a while to get the hang of it! :-)

Six of us had the privilege to teach in two more schools. What fun that was! There is nothing like doing the story of “David and Goliath” with hand puppets or teaching children how to play with a parachute or giving out 'sweets' (candy). We in America have so much and these children have so little but are so joyous!

Today we enjoyed sharing time with the women of the village. Together we made flip flops, the story of salvation necklaces and shared a question and answer section. Then the ladies danced for us; what a thrilling experience. We even were invited to join in and one male member of our group danced along – not saying his name but his initials are 'Grant Fisher'. LOL

I just heard that the other group is on their way back and I know that supper will be starting soon but I wanted to share with you a little taste of what we have been enjoying. Let me tell you, after sleeping on the floor (my mat lost all it's air) the bed tonight will be very appreciated!

God is so good to us! Thank you for your prayers. We can feel them here and as a team we are very appreciative. This is such a wonderful team! We have bonded and know that God is allowing us to both receive a blessing and give some also.

In the heart of Uganda,
Valerie

The Faces of the Children of Uganda

2008-10-02T10:44:00.010-05:00

These are the faces that we will never forget! 80% of the population of the country of Uganda are under the age of 15 and many of those are orphans due to AIDs, other illnesses and war.

Team Two has arrived at their village where they will work until after the church dedication on Sunday and then they will be traveling to Queen Elizabeth Park for a Safari. Please keep them in your prayers.

Children of Central Community Church of God Nursery

2008-10-01T14:46:00.004-05:00

A Few Pictures From Team One's Trip

2008-10-01T14:34:00.006-05:00

This is the church we built last year. It's called Mutungo Church of God.
The nursery school meeting at the church was named Central Community Church of God Nursery School.

October 1, 2008

2008-10-01T00:28:00.004-05:00

Good Morning from Uganda, Africa! Currently we are eating breakfast and getting ready for our newest adventure.

I did not get a chance to tell you that yesterday the team members that did not go on Home Visits were able to paint part of the floor and the stage at the chapel at Kasubi. Kasubi is the headquarters for the Church of God. Our medical team met with the nurse and other medical professionals and answered questions and gave medical presentations.

Today those who are medical on our team (Steve, Caroline, Hilary and Heather) will be going with the missionary nurse, Glenna, to visit other village medical personnel.

Last night we stayed up late getting things ready to go today (repacking our bags and the totes) and in our room we got a little goofy (saying 'goodnight' to John Boy, Mary Ellen, Sue Ellen - not in the same show but close, haha) and I think it was because we were tired and full of anticipation for today's events.

This morning I woke up and when I looked at my watch (which is still set on Kansas time) I thought it was 8:00 and breakfast was in 15 minutes! So I woke my roomies up only to discover that it was only 7:00! This from the person who had to be woke up before. But we all decided it was a good thing since we had many last minute preparations to do before breakfast which began at 8 instead of 8:15!

God is good to us here and I want to give him all the glory and honor for what he is doing in all of our lives! Believe me, He is here with us as well as with you all at home.

Well, this will be it until Sunday. Pray for us that we will stay healthy and do what God wants us to do. And, on a personal note, that the latrine conditions will be something that we can all get through successfully!

Love you all and miss you!

Valerie

Pictures of the Church Team One Built

2008-09-30T17:56:00.005-05:00

This is a picture of the church Team One built on Dedication Day just prior to cutting the ribbon and entering the church for a wonderful Sunday morning service.

September 30, 2008

2008-09-30T15:00:00.000-05:00

Wow, what an incredible day! First of all, I have to say thank you to everyone who sent me birthday greetings; that made me feel so loved! And I want to thank my wonderful team since they sang “Happy Birthday” to me at breakfast and made me feel very special.

We went to the Kasubi school today. Unfortunately it was an official Ramadan holiday (Eid) so most of the students were off. That didn't stop us from having exciting plans. The group that I was in (Grant, Mark, Debbie, Alexis and I along with our interpreter Annette and Rose a missionary from Canada) went to do home visits to grandmothers. What a blessing those ladies were! They were so happy to see us and kept thanking us over and over. We were given seats of honor and made to feel like very special guests. We saw one grandmother and her granddaughter peeling bananas and preparing them to steam. They sang songs for us and danced a little. In another home we barely made it into their house before the rains come pouring! They invited us in and we sat on mats and listened as the rain beat down upon their tin roof. Debbie had her feet baptized by the rain! It was almost fully dark but the grandmother instructed her granddaughter to put the lamp on. We sat almost fully in the dark and sang songs and prayed with this family. It was such a surreal feeling but we all could feel the presence of God with us. Praise the Lord!

Others on the team were able to go to Home Visits in the afternoon to the TAPP program (the program to provide assistance to those people with Aids. They were moved as well as they met many families who are enduring heartache and pain and yet are so welcoming to us who visit them.

We were serenaded by the wonderful High School choir with several beautiful songs. A few people got up and danced with them (I won't mention any names but you would know them if I said them!) and it was a blessed experience. We didn't want to leave!

After another wonderful evening meal we had devotions and talked about what is coming up the next few days. We will be going to Nampunge tomorrow afternoon but since we were unable to see the children at the Kasubi school (at least most of them) several of us are going to be teaching! I am so excited about this! Brenda will be teaching P.E., Debbie and Alexis will be teaching the Nursery school (Pre-K) and I get to teach High School Social Studies! I am excited and nervous but looking forward to this. Debbie, Alexis and I got to spend about an hour with eight high school girls this afternoon and what precious young ladies. Please pray for all of us.

After we leave the school it's off to the village of Nampunge! I will try to tell you more about that in the morning but suffice it to say, we won't be back here (except the medical team and they will be coming back in order to get ready for more medical visits) so unless I can get on in the morning, this will be it until Sunday night. Pray for us that God will use us in a mighty and fabulous way.

One more thing: I love this wonderful team! They surprised me with a little Debbie's cake, a birthday card, song and some genuine African articles. I have felt very loved today and I want to thank all of them. They are so loving.

Well, it's time for a shower and then off to bed. Hopefully. We are all still preparing for the morning.

Love and miss you all!

Valerie

Monday

2008-09-29T12:08:00.002-05:00

Well, as you have heard, we of Team 2 have arrived. Finally! After hours and hours in the airplane/airports. Trying to sleep on the crowded plane and almost getting there only to be awakened to “would you like some lunch?” or Hilary's favorite “would you like some ice cream?” She said she was sound asleep but as soon as she heard those words her eyes opened!

Speaking of Hilary, we are happy she was able to join us. For some unknown reason her alarm clock and her mom's didn't go off and she work up @ 5:20! We were worried but God knew that she needed to be with us and got her to the airport in plenty of time!

We arrived safe and sound and Praise God! All of our luggage and tubs made it, too. Our hosts are very gracious and the food that they prepare is wonderful. Last night we had soup, bread and cookies and this evening delicious meatballs with rice and many yummy side dishes. Now, you might wonder why I am including this. In my family, food is a way of showing that you care and I know that my Mom and through her my Grandmother will be reading this and I thought it would be fun to share how some of the simpler things are here. Although, when you have worked all day, having a delicious supper is not simple matter! :-)

Our group had orientation this morning and then we were off to see the Heritage International School. It is very beautiful and laid out so nicely. I would have enjoyed seeing more of the classroom and children (for those of you who don't know, I am an ESOL teacher and school is really important to me) but I know that I will have opportunities to see more schools soon.

While we were at HIS we painted some cabinets that Team 1 had started painting -they put the primer on and we painted over them with silver. Some of the men worked on a fence, a few people tried to lay out a volleyball court and then we swept the volleyball court and began painting it. It was a busy day and we were grateful for our supper when we returned to the Stevensons' home.

Well, I will finish for now. I hope they don't regret putting me on the blog! I do tend to ramble somewhat. I do want to tell my family(Fred, Alysa, Christopher, Vanessa, Mom, Grandma, Mae, Bill) that I love you and I miss you! Also, hi to all my co-workers!

I will write more tomorrow evening.

Valerie

Tidbits from Africa

2008-09-28T14:13:00.001-05:00

Today, Sunday, I went with Glenna to a small village in western Uganda. This was a very small church maybe 50 people. We arrived at 1230 instead of the arranged time of 900 due to a flat tire. Ok you have to understand a flat tire on a Ugandan highway is extremely dangerous. Passers by do not slow down for anything. Our driver, who's name is Sunday, changed that tire in record time. We pulled out the tarp and sat along the road and waited.

The service of course had already started and they were ready for introductions and the sermon by the time we arrived. I think I did ok for my first time actually preaching, as the district leader asked how long I would be here and if I could come to more of his churches and share. So praise be to God for helping me through it.

We are now waiting for team two to arrive at the compound and they should be here any minute. I think I am ready for two more weeks.

OK ladies here is something just for you.

When your husband comes and says he needs a new PU truck you need to tell him a true man uses a bicycle to haul stuff. In Uganda the bike is as good as a PU is in the states. I personally have seen the following being hauled
3 people
livestock (goats, chickens,very big pigs
Furniture ( 3 piece living room sets, big dining room table and 4 chairs, full size bed frame)
Lumber store needs( not just a piece of lumber but a real load, re bar, 4x8 tin sheets, bamboo 12ft long and sugar cane)
And lets not for get about the food shopping ( at least 50 pineapples, big bunches of green bananas
Strange things ( motorcycle, coffin)
So when he says he really needs one tell him manly men use bikes, but you could let him upgrade to a tube less tire if he really thinks he needs to.

I guess to be fair men this one is for you.

Here in Uganda it is tradition that once a girl marries, her mother is not allowed to come to the son in laws home. She is not allowed to sit next to him and basically must keep her distance. The only time she is allowed at her son in laws home is if he is not there. Advise on this one I wouldn't push my luck on this little cultural hiccup and try to instate it in the states, you might end up in real trouble.

Shopping in Kampala

The store is set up much like ours but there are a lot more produce bins, only two choices of pop and no air conditioning. The baskets are the ones you use that you carry, you know those little plastic ones, but the sit in their own little cart so they are mini carts. I guess they don't want you to buy too much. The prices are about 3 times higher than the states but this was a store where the wealthy of Kampala shop so I guess they think they can afford it. Example a box of fish sticks is about $10. And there is a visible discontentment with Musugoos ( white people)there. I was told is stems from years of mistreatment.

Now if you are on the lower end of the income level you shop at street shops, where everything is negotiable. You start to walk away and they ask you how much you will pay. On the way home today we stopped at many of these shops. 20 tomatoes were 2000schillings and 1632 SCH = $1. So you can do the math. 8 green bell peppers was 1000SCH, 10 small onions 1000SCH, 2 huge fish, I mean each one would have served 10 people were 10,000SCH. Oh and to get them home you hang them on the front of your car kind of like a deer. So it is cheaper to go to the outskirts to buy those kinds of items it is just impossible for the average person to get that far out of town.

Other differences
A zebra crossing = crosswalk
stoplights are very few and far between to instead they have speed bumps. On the road we went on there were about 50 in a line spaced 50 yards apart. Now that was a fun ride.
Instead of flares or cones to show you are broken down in the road, you break limbs of trees and place a couple in the middle of the road. Ahead of the vehicle and behind the vehicle.
My favorite is the one that says the road is a two lane, well they do not even have real lines in the road so if you think you can get in and start your own lane more power to you. There are probably only 2 stop lights in town the rest of the time you just push your way through and if you are timid you will sit there for hours.

OK I guess I have rambled but I think I was able to experience some things that I would never have, had I only been part of the big group.

Still waiting on team 2 but here they are en route

God bless and we will write soon

Love to all now officially team 2 has arrived
Kimberly

Alone in Africa

2008-09-26T13:07:00.001-05:00

I really didn’t know how hard it would be to have the team pack up and drive away. At first I wanted to jump in and go with them, but the worry soon left as I drove away with Glenna ( the district director of nursing in Uganda). I will stay with her this weekend and have a personal adventure here. I felt like my family was leaving and I was now alone in Africa. But as soon as I thought it I know I am at home in Africa as well, and my African family will take care of me.

Tomorrow she will show me what it is like to gerocery shop in Kampala. Should make for an interesting morning. Then we will visit a family that Ray and I sponsored last year.

Sunday the plan is to get up very early and head out to another village in western Uganda for the day. We will be visiting with a young boy who was hospitalized for 3 months due to having surgery to fix his legs and is now able to walk. We will also be attending church there and I am preaching. What an experience that will be. Please pray for divine help.

So I do have a full schedule to keep my mind and body busy until team 2 arrives. Hurry up team two home has never felt so far away. !!!!!!

A wonderful day at Mutungo

2008-09-26T12:21:00.004-05:00

As the teams arrived in the small village, we were greeted in the Ugandan fashion that we have come to appreciate and understand. People singing, dancing and praising our return. All we could do at first was to look in true amazement as to the transformation of the church and the compound. Oh how different it looked. No more bricks, sand piles, and cement volcanoes, but instead a serene grassy playground and beautiful landscaping.
The trees teams 1 and 2 planted upon our departures last year where growing just as the church and all of the new programs have done in the last year. The seeds we sowed a year ago look to be in full bloom and thriving so abundantly. We did not just build a building, but we helped build a community. This small thing as we would see it in USA, is a vast life change to the village of Mutungo and now has activity day and night, with all praise being lifted upward to God.
The music continued for a while as we greeted old friends, and toured the grounds in amazement of Gods glorious blessings. We were able to recreate the bonds we began a year ago and unlike in USA we were remembered by name. You really never know the impression you make good or bad, and here they remember it all.
Those of us that had Children of Promise were able to meet our little ones. When I noticed a taxi van pull up and drop a few children off that did not seem to match the uniforms of Central Community Nursery School I made my way through the crowd to a little boy in red. His eyes were full of amazement and an overwhelmed look. He was near tears as I sat down. I asked the man with him what his name was. The man replied his name is Amson. My heart sank as I had found one of my children. He was so small, so scared, and so afraid to shake my hand. I told the man I was his sponsor. The pastor then said he had accompanied Amson to Kampala to get his medical review and to meet with me. He said Amson usually talks a lot but rarely smiles. This very small child was almost lost inside himself, you see Amson lives in a small village far away from any main roads and this was his first journey away form the village. He had never seen any thing motorized before. The only thing his understood was a bike. He had never seen a car and certainly never had been in one. So much to take in for someone away from mom and dad and so far form home.
His little face was beautiful but so sad. He would not talk or smile. Eye contact was not an option. Even as much as the pastor tried to explain he was not able to take any more in. Soon I was introduced to my two other children who live and go to school right there at CCC Nursery Ronald and Racheal. They too were apprihensive to the white woman who was so excited to see them. " Who let her in here and why does she want our picture" they might be saying to themselves. And so like everyone else we were given some private time to try to communicate. And so the ice was broke when out of my bag 3 toostie roll pops came out. For the first time I saw their little eyes light up and the start of a smile. Now Amson was still unsure as he didnt know what candy was until he followed the other twos lead and out it in his mouth. You would have thought that young babies life had changed forever and I saw the biggest smile and whitest teeth. My heart broke and the tears would not stop.
As I continued to help each of them open thier gifts their little faces said it all, and I knew we had made the right decision to sponsor these children. God was smiling and He let my heart know. Each rec'd a childrens bible and a blanket, for you see if they have a blanket when/if they have to go to the hospital they will get better treatment; as a blanket is a sign of wealth here. They also got a few odds and end toys as well as a soccer ball. And that was a BIG hit, with the biggest smiles ever. This is the right thing to do to help a child who never smiles be given just that one little thing, a reason to smile. It may not solve all of the problems but at least it will help possibly to give a little hope to one so small and innocent.
This is just my story and I am sure you will hear many more and team 1 returns.
The rest of the day was full of presentations, dancing, and singing. Praise God we are all His children and can come together as one through Him.
The team then rushed home for last minute packing and were off to the airport for the very long journey home.

Much love Kimberly

Our Last Night in Kampala

2008-09-25T14:19:00.006-05:00

We enjoyed our day. It's hard to believe that tonight is our last night here. The time flies so fast!

We enjoyed the day shopping. We went to two different shopping areas and then topped the day off with ice cream and a coke at an Italian fast food place. Yes, there is fast food in Kampala even if it's not exactly what we are used to.

Colleen knows a woman whose profession is to give great massages. Some of the team members were really in need of having their backs lined up in preparation for the long trip home. Some chose not to shop or to come back after an hour in order to enjoy their relaxing day in a different way.

Other team members did laundry and we all repacked and prepared for the busy day tomorrow. We have lots of items packed in totes to bring with us tomorrow to share with the kids and women at the Mutungo church. We are excited to see it and them. We have heard that it has grown so much and there are so many additions since last year. We are also all excited to see our kids again. We will get to spend some real quality time with them.

Tonight we saw a different side of Kampala - the beautiful view from a downtown building where we ate delicious Chineese food. It's so interesting the different areas of the city. Tonight from our view on the veranda outside the building with the city lights all around, you would think we were in a big city anywhere in the US. it was cool outside tonight, something that surprises most of us who haven't been here before. Yes, it does get cool in Africa. The natives actually get goosebumps and put on coats (but for those of us from Kansas, it's not that cold, just a bit cool).

We had a lot of laughter over dinner as we reminisced about all the funny things that happened on our trip. It was a very joyful time to celebrate all that God had shown us and allowed us to experience here. It will be hard to go home tomorrow, we will miss this place and the people we have met both this year and the friends we have reconnected with from last year.

Terri just remarked that you have done a good job when you go home with empty pockets. The majority of people here make their living by small businesses so when we have a massage, or shop or buy an ice cream, we are actually helping to support lots of people who really need our business.

For example, Larry and I have a Child of Promise named Martin whose mom was pregnant with twins when we were here last year. She went into premature labor and almost lost the babies last year while we were here. She had the children but in December her husband left to find work and never returned. She has really struggled with young babies and Martin and no income. Larry and I are going to leave money with Colleen to help her get started in a small business to help support herself and her children. She has been very depressed after being abandoned and is feeling overwhelmed with her responsibilities.

Individual team members invested money to go along with the church money invested in several projects to help the people we've met. We bought Bibles in the language of the people in Nebbi for pastors and churches where Bibles they can read are in high demand. We are purchasing bikes for pastors to provide them transportation. We have purchased goats for widows to give them an income. We have invested in money to finish another classroom for the Mutungo church/school. We are also leaving money for the cost of getting the container out of customs. The container is here and it won't be long till it will be released and delivered to the Stevenson's home. The cost to get it out of customs is estimated at $6000.

Kimberly is downloading pictures from several of the team members. Tim wins the prize for taking the most pictures with 1890 pictures taken. Dan took 1400 so he is in a close second place for taking the most pictures. Kimberly will be staying with Glenna after Team One returns home and hopefully will be able to download some pictures on the blog.

This will be the last time you will hear from us probably before we arrive again in Wichita. We look forward to seeing our families again and all of you and sharing in person lots of the incredible stories we have to tell.

Until then,
Cheri

Shopping in Kampala

2008-09-25T00:29:00.002-05:00

Today those of us "shop till you drop" shoppers are going shopping! Shopping in Kampala is a fun experience. Lots of walking, lots of hunting and lots of bargaining to get the best prices. We want to bring gifts back to our loved ones! :) But not everyone is going. For example, Larry is staying back to relax and enjoy time alone with God. (Time alone with 17 team members is a rare privilege). Others will be packing or just enjoying the down time for a variety of purposes around here. It will be good to have a day to regroup and relax and repack and prepare for our looooong trip home.

Tomorrow will be packed! We will spend the day at Mutungo at the church we built last year. We will get to visit our Children of Promise and all the friends we made last year. We will see the Central Community Preschool and the offices there on the site. We're very excited for tomorrow! We have to have everything packed when we leave in the morning because it will be a packed day! The church at Mutungo can't wait to see us, too! They are coming in the morning and then going home for lunch. We will have a lunch prepared by the women of the church. The church people will come back after their lunches to spend the rest of the day with us.

We are feeling rested and refreshed after a long night's rest in a great bed! The beds we stayed at for the last week weren't as good as these are! We all had HOT showers and that was something we all truly enjoyed! It's amazing the things you cherish when you've gone a week without them! Even sit down potties are something to give thanks to God for! In the US we take so much for granted. Every night the electricity goes off at 11:00 at the place we stayed at on the Safari. So, it's getting up by lamp light and getting ready in the dark. Thank God for electrictiy! A couple of us even curled our bangs today, just because we can! :)

We had the best dinner last night! Delicious American type food with ice cream and cookies for dessert! We got our ice cream craving satisfied! Tonight we are going back to the world's best Chineese restaurant, at least in my opinion. Prior to this restaurant I didn't like Chineese food but this place is the best, serving homestyle with big bowls of everything and the best atmosphere and presentation and plenty of food to satisfy everyone.

I had better go and get breakfast before the shoppers leave without me. We can't wait to tell you our stories in detail about our last week. It was an incredible experience that we are still processing. It's amazing how in a short time you can be so connected with a group of people that they remain in your hearts even when you leave. I don't know when we will get to go back to Nebbi area but we will always remember the friends we made there, in our thoughts and prayers and ask after them.

Love to You All!
Cheri

We're Back in Kampala!

2008-09-24T09:45:00.009-05:00

Here's a blog from a bunch of us:

Janelle: Thanks for the update, Shannon. Please keep me posted on MOM. Tell Reagan that I love and miss her and Nene will be home soon. We'll be home Saturday night at 9:00 pm. The trip to the village was awesome! It was great to see the African children's smiles again. Can't wait for Friday to see the church we built last year and see our kids of promise. We're bringing 25 more home to sponsor from the area of the church we built this year. Some of the pastor's kids haven't been sponsored and that is one of their great concerns because they can't go to school without school fees. So please spread the word.

Genda: Thank goodness I'm out of the car and both feet are both on the ground! That carsickness isn't fun! I love the way the kids' faces brighten up and smile for us.

Emily: I've done exceptionally well. Be home Saturday evening at 9:00 pm, Lord willing. Tell my kids and Norma, thanks for their prayers. The people here are so enthusiastic about God. It is a joy to watch them. I've got a lot to tell when I get home. Jim, I hope you have found the refrigerator by now.

Debbie: I'm speechless till I get home. There aren't words to describe all the feelings and thoughts I have. The people that I met in Nebbi like the youth pastors had a huge impact on me. I'm definitely a changed woman.

Terri: 'Chelle and Josh, we are back from the village. I'll email Michelle later. We are anxiously waiting to hear news from Carla so if you have any, please let us know.

Jennifer: Diane Bartel and Wednesday Women, thank you for all your prayers. I miss everyone. Anything Larry says is probably not the whole story. I've had a lot of fun but I'm ready to come home. See you on Sunday!

Larry: The trip to Nebbi was long but was well worth it. The building project went well. The dedication was on time. Dan, Cheri and I worked with the pastors. It was humbling to talk with them and find out about their urgent needs. We had 46 pastors from Uganda and the Congo. Some of the pastors walked 40 miles to be there, when some of us wouldn't walk down the street for an ice cream cone (except right now, craving ice cream like we are, I would walk two miles for a DQ Blizzard). They felt that we were God sent. Too bad they don't know the real us. I taught a class on hope. It was hard to teach that because how could someone so rich from the states teach someone with so little about hope? That was hard. We have learned one thing when we were on the Safari. When the lions chase you, you don't have to be first, just don't be last. We serve a great God! Team Two, the squatty potties are awesome! :)

Cheri: I'm so glad we went to Nebbi. It was a whole new experience. The people we met had greater poverty and were more isolated than any of the people we had met so far. Colleen told us that when she went to one village in this area one time to teach the women, they wouldn't come in the room because they were afraid of her because they had never seen a white woman. Some of the children were a little unsure of us until we showed them the love we felt for them and then they warmed up to us. Overall we were overwhelmed by their welcome with their heartfelt songs and palm leaves waving, leading us to walk up the hill to the church. The kids ran behind our vehicles with their leaved branches for a mile, singing songs and laughing - our welcoming committee!

I think what was different for me this time is that I built relationships with the pastors who came for training and the youth pastors who came from miles around to spend time helping us with the kids. These men sacrifice so much! It's hard to comprehend. The afternoon after we first spent the day sharing with them, we asked them what was the most challenging thing for them. They said that transportation was one of their issues. They have to walk so far to minister to all the people (some of them are district leaders over several churches). There are 70 churches just in that one region. While they are out ministering, they are thinking about their families, and their crops that need to be cared for. They are among the poorest of the poor. I asked them if their people tithe and they said that the majority of the people in their churches are widows and children on a very small income themselves. 60% of the population is under the age of 15. They want better for their kids than to struggle so hard but without school fees their children can't even go to school. There is a lot of AIDS there and very little health care and truly you see very few men involved in church unless they are in leadership.

I also spent time working with the women on a different day. Colleen taught a class on family planning. This is always important. There are so many women who attend church without their husbands and many men feel that large families prove their manhood. The women are afraid to practice family planning because sometimes the men leave them if they don't have lots of male children. The woman named Jolly who is in charge of the Women's Ministry for the region, lost her husband when he left her for only having three girls. Fortunately after much prayer, he did return. She is a very strong woman that commands respect. When she speaks, even the men listen.

The women find it hilarious that we can't balance a piece of paper on our heads let alone 50 pound water jugs! :) They have some talents we never will!

On Saturday we worked on another church in the Nebbi town and did ministry with the women and children. They put on a program for us and presented us with gifts. They gave Central Community group a rooster and a shirt, and gave Tim and Colleen a chicken.

On Dedication Sunday, I preached! Get that! I think it went over well. I like the translation thing because it gives you space to think what to say next. Larry fell asleep but what can I say? He hears from me all the time! :)

Again, they showered us with gifts. They gave us bananas, eggs, cabbage, kasava root and Tim got a sheep. It's very humbling when they have so little, and they give us so much.

The chickens went under the seat and the sheep on the roof. Poor thing, I think he got car sick - lots of bumps and I know for sure Larry and Genda wouldn't have survived up there! They would have been diving off to get away from all the juggling! Fortunately for us, but not for him, he was tied on too good to escape.

On Sunday afternoon, we drove up a mountain and then climbed even further up to a school. They had a program for us and we gave them items for their school. We also saw their school building that they are trying to get built. They also gave us gifts. They gave me a female sheep to go with our male sheep and another chicken, placed it right on my lap, first time I've ever held a sheep! So, Tim's sheep had a buddy to keep him company and between the two of them they created quite the mess on the roof of the car - took quite a while to clean it off the next day! Think they were a bit nervous. :) So, Team Two your menu is complete and the groceries were all provided by God. Bon Appetite!

Guess I could write a book but this is enough for now. We've had a great time and are looking forward to the rest of this week. Thanks so much all of you for blogging us! We all enjoyed hearing from home when we returned today!

Evening in Uganda

2008-09-16T22:47:00.003-05:00

As we left the Kasubi school we were all ready to come back to the compound eat shower and sleep as the days events were long and full of hard work. The city seems to become more alive as the evening sets in. More people more vehicles, more energy. We arrived at the compound to no water and no electric, a slaming blow to those of us just dreaming of a shower even a cold one. Welcome to Africa!!!! As the night drew to a close we were blessed to get a little water that we could take a very short, but very needed shower.

Thank you God. Small blessings are the best at times.

As we started retiring for the night I noticed a change from the craziness of the city to the serene happenings of the night. Upon the hill I watched the bats dance in the night sky driving to catch their pray before their pray got us ( mosqitoes). I was very thankful for those usually scary creatures. Although as one fellow mission worker stood out in the clearing brushing his teeth, he was almost hit in the head by a very aggressive little guy. Was kind of funny to see him run for the porch of the cabin.

As the night progressed on I found myself unable to sleep. I think God gave me a gift that so many poeple sleep through and never realize the magnitude of the night. I heard so many new sounds that my mind either one- got scared and cuddled up with my blanket or two- was in awe of what could make such a beautiful sound. Something nibbling on things in our room (shhhh dont tell my room mates as they might get a little worried). Bugs hitting the screen of window, a rooster crowing at 3am trying to find an answer back in the darkness. Something walking around in the rock path in front of the cabin. The call to prayer of the Muslum temple at least 5 or 6 times throughout the night was a reminder that we have so much to do here. And what could those calls be doing to those how hear it in their sleep.

The rooster was a persistant creature letting me know about every hour that I was getting less and less sleep. But soon in the distance I heard a response to his early morning call and then another and another. Soon they all took turns in the ritual talking back and forth. Then I heard only what I can explain as a walk through the rainforest at the zoo, the sounds of birds I had never heard before. Many of them waking up to Gods new day, singing praises to Him. But I was not at the zoo just listening to the beautiful sounds God gave these birds here in the wild. Soon the sounds of Gods creatures over powered the Muslum calls and the dawn was upon me telling me to sing the praises of God and rejoice in this new morning that God has given us. Isn't that what we all should do daily, wake up with songs of praise, thankfulness that we have a new day to go out and make a difference, and the ability to do it?

What a wonderful experience to have and this is only from the missionaries compound I cant wait to see what the village has in store for us.

Kimberly

Visitation and Work at Kasubi

2008-09-16T14:22:00.003-05:00

Today we did painting at Kasubi, painting the baptismal, the library, the guest house, the canteen area, and classroom. We watched them digging a water well on site. We also went to the TAPP office and installed doors and windows. We felt like we accomplished alot today.

We also spent time at the TAPP office learning to roll beads. Believe me, they are worth every dollar! It looks easier than it is! They told us we need more practice. :)

Everyone new this year and a couple team members from last year went on home visits to those infected with HIV who are involved in the TAPP ministry. The team members who experienced this for the first time were very moved. Larry said whoever goes on home visits bring plenty of tissue to cry in. It was very emotional for everyone. It is something you have to experience for your heart to really be touched and changed and to gain in understanding. Each family was prayed with and we tried to bring them hope.

I spent a couple of hours or even more at a friend of Colleen's home. She is going through a divorce and I (Cheri) enjoyed the opportunity to share with her, to listen to her and to encourage her.

Tomorrow we leave at 11:00 am for the village. It is expected to take 8 hours. Tim and Colleen said that they don't normally take visitors this far North. We feel blessed to be able to go and share with these people. The people will be walking for days to come to church for the dedication which is on Sunday. We will have many from the Church of God in the Congo coming, too.

We will be staying at a lodge which we are told is just a step above a tent. At least we will be out of the weather. Last year Larry and I were the only ones who chose a leak proof tent. Everyone else got drinched and we are in the rainy season. We are glad to have a roof to sleep under.

Tomorrow morning we will pack. We are gathering all the items we will need for the village time and the Safari time.

Everyone is doing well but we did learn that Jennifer is alergic to African sweet potatoes (they are the white type). One bite and she had an allergic reaction and realized she shouldn't have any more. It was a bit tense for a while. :( Genda had a migraine and went to rest at Glenna's and feels much better tonight. Other than that and a few sore muscles, everyone is doing very well.

We feel incredibly blessed to be here! We also enjoy hearing from you so pleae leave us your comments.

Love You Guys!
Cheri for Team One

Good Morning From Africa!

2008-09-15T23:27:00.005-05:00

The birds are greeting us this morning, "Ha, ha". We enjoy the "Ha Ha" bird especially. We are headed to Kasubi schools this morning to work all day, painting and hanging doors and windows in a new addition. We will visit the TAPP program as well and hopefully do some home visits.

We stayed up late last night shopping from all the beautiful items Linda made this year, the TAPP beads and various other items. Jeff was our banker and took care of redistributing our Uganda money after Colleen got it changed from American for us. They rejected one $100 bill even though it had the right year because it was well used (a bit wrinkled and small tear) so you guys on Team Two be sure you bring newer looking bills. Funny though,they gave us a Uganda bill in exchange that was practically wripped clear through.

I don't think the potholes have improved since last year. I forgot how slowly and carefully we have to drive on the roads to be sure we don't get lost in one. Moses is an excellent driver. I also had forgotten the traffic and the late afternoon trip back to the Stevenson's home. All the sights and sounds of the street - the women holding babies on the back of bota bota (the motorcycles and even bicycles that will get you around for a price), people cooking chicken on a stick, lots of kids. Tim told us yesterday that 60% of the population is under the age of 12. There were a couple of times when I was sure we were going to run over someone as they stepped right in front of our vehicle but Moses is like I said a great driver, and not only good at dodging potholes but also people. :)

Jocelyn, Larry wants you to know that he knew the Chiefs were in trouble when the only Chiefs fan on the continent of Africa was wearing a paperbag on his head!

Last night we had our first group devotional time after dinner. It was awesome hearing how God had revealed himself. Some of our team members shared how he provided them the money for the trip in amazing ways. Genda shared how she met a young man who was returning to Uganda for a visit. He lost his parents to Aids when he was 9. Then he won one of 50,000 Work Visas the US gives a year so he's been working in Maryland. As we meet the people, it really impacts us the struggles alot of Ugandans go through and how emotionally strong and vibrant these people are.

We will be leaving tomorrow morning for the village. Hopefully we will be able to write again tonight or tomorrow morning before we leave for our 8 hour drive. Otherwise we will write back when we can.

We're Here!

2008-09-15T10:38:00.003-05:00

Hello from Uganda! We're all here and fine, healthy and happy after a very long journey. They only lost 3 of our totes this year! At least better than the 7 they lost last year!

Today after we had orientation, we went to the International School for lunch and to work on some projects. We painted metal shelves in the kitchen, fixed pathways with brick edging (got to practice our bricking skills again! :)) Also a couple people straightened a crooked roof by resetting the porch supports.

It rained alot around noon so we have definitely arrived to rainy season! But, then when we left you guys were having your own rainy season. Lisa, Larry wants to know if you can go and mow our yard when you get done with Terri's. (Just kidding!)

The emotions were overwhelming as we touched down in Entebbe, almost like we had never left. The fears and worries of the past few weeks seemed to melt away as the tears flowed knowing we were finally back. The sights and sounds of the city are forever ingrained in our hearts and minds. You would like those things would never leave your memory, but coming back has brought everything back to life in a colorful and powerful way. Open fires burning, stagnet water and cooked chicken all melt into the smells of the Ugandan streets.

The small children wondering the dirt roads as though they are lost. Our hearts cry for them knowing the life they will lead here. So much we can do from home by sponsoring a child. You can see the difference in the faces of the ones who have no real purpose vs the ones with school books on their backs and proudly wearing a school uniform. Central has done so much for the future of the 100 children we have been able to sponsor. Our only hope is that we now can begin helping more.

Must go for now will write again soon.
Much love and thankful for all of the prayers
Team 1 Monday night

The Container Arrives in Mombasa!

2008-09-12T09:33:00.004-05:00

In May of this year, we packed a 40 foot container full of medical supplies, clothes, books and lots of miscellaneous items. It was shipped from Houston, Texas, USA to Mombassa, Kenya by ship to then travel across Kenya to Kampala, Uganda. It has had an interesting journey traveling first to China then India and now today we learn that it has arrived in Mombassa and is now in Customs. We thank God for its arrival and pray that the two week anticipated journey to Kampala will go on without a hitch so that Team Two will still be in Uganda when it arrives in Kampala.

A Great Send Off!

2008-09-12T09:01:00.009-05:00

Our evening started with a potluck carry in meal. Lots of food and lots of fun was had by all. After dinner the group adjourned to the Activity Center for a wonderful evening of worhip! 350 people joined together to worship God and enthusiastically send off the two mission teams who will be traveling to Uganda later this month. Kimberly Toupin shared thoughts on why she feels called to minister to the people in Uganda by staying for four weeks this year. We viewed many pictures from the trips to Uganda last year while we worshipped God with wonderful old Gospel songs. Jonathan Grubbs commissioned the teams as family and friends came up to lay hands on the team members and pray. A love offering of over $2000 was given to be used as God leads on needs that He shows the teams while in Uganda. What a great send off!

2008-09-04T16:53:00.000-05:00

Gospel Music For Missions Night

Come Join us for this special celebration in preparation for our 2008 trips to Uganda. We'll have a great night of great gospel songs, good food and a focus on our mission trips to Uganda, Africa.

Sunday Night, September 7, 2008

Carry In Dinner begins in the Atrium at 6:00 PM

Don't miss this special and unique night of music and ministry celebration!