Tuesday, April 29, 2014

We are back in Kampala, the capital of Uganda, tonight.  We had another great day in Kawete before leaving around 4pm to return to Kampala.  We were both sad to leave.  One of the teachers sang a local goodbye song to Katie and before finishing they were both crying.  Katie participated in a music class as well as song/dance demonstrations today.  She spent a lot of time with the music teacher, Richard.  He is a great teacher and loves the children of CCLS-Uganda.

We provided more healthcare today as well.  We saw another 40 adults and children.  Today I addressed medical concerns of some of the mothers-aboout 30.  They were so patient in waiting their turn.  Hopefully they will have a better life after our visit.  These women are amazing and probably the hardest working women in the world!

We are sad to be leaving but feel truly blessed by our visit.  The people here are gracious, hospitable, and truly grateful for all of the support and love.  May God bless each and every one!

As we head back late tomorrow evening, we bring with us stories of children and families who continue to persevere under extreme circumstances yet love the Lord and seem to smile always.  We have a list of needs and children who need sponsors to pay their school fees.  One child at a time...







Monday, April 28, 2014

April 29, 2014
Today will be our last visit to CCLS-Uganda.  We are sad to be leaving.  The people have been so warm, welcoming and joyful during our visit. Today I will be addressing some Women's health needs.  I was very busy in the clinic yesterday. Nurse Stella Nabirye and I saw 40 patients.  We have been blessed by our visit and the smiles and joy of the children fills our hearts!

Sunday, April 27, 2014

Sunday in Kawete, Uganda
Today was a glorious day in the village!  The weather was beautiful, the children were happy, and the church service was uplifting.

We started with a church service - three Bible readings, a wonderful message about faith in the Lord and trusting that God is always with us.  The music was wonderful, of course.  The children were just like ours at home;  eating, drawing, and a little talking during the service :)

Kent saw 20 children ranging in age from 3 months to 55 years old!!

I took pictures and interviewed our sponsored children, played "net ball," dodge ball, and football (in America, we call it soccer).  Violet was an amazing helper all throughout the day.  She even introduced me to Jackfruit and sugarcane!

The people here are wonderfully hospitable, warm & friendly, and grateful for our support.  It really IS as amazing as Kent has said from his previous 4 visits.











Saturday, April 26, 2014

Good morning!  It is Sunday morning in Uganda!  We had an eventful day yesterday.  We attended a traditional Ugandan Introduction ceremony of Violet's sister, Rita.  It was an amazing pageant and she and Ryan became engaged with wedding to follow on June 7, 2014.  It included many parts as they were slowly introduced to each other.  Music, feasting, dancing, prayer and gift-giving of every kind occurred.  It lasted from 2PM til 8PM!  The groom's family presents the bride's family with many gifts including a cow and chicken!  We made our way back to Jinja from Kampala by 11:30PM.

Today we will be back to Kawete!  We will attend church with the community and then provide healthcare to the local children.  Katie will visit with some families as well.  Another day in paradise for us!





Friday, April 25, 2014

Day One - CCLS-Uganda!
The children greeted us with smiles, drumming, chanting, and waving of tree branches!!!!!  Kent has told me about this very special and warm greeting but nothing could prepare me for the emotion I felt as we were greeted by the children!!!!  Unbelievable and it brought tears to my eyes.  These people are beautiful and so kind.

Kent and I met with the staff of the school and the parents of the students attending CCLS-U.  Kent saw several patients along with Stella, the school nurse.  I played with the children, helped (briefly) in the kitchen, sang and danced with the children, and had a "dance lesson" with the secretary of the school.  What a day!!!!!

Tomorrow we have been invited to a kwanjula which means the introduction ceremony of an engaged couple.  I will even be wearing a traditional dress made by the bride's mother!  Pictures to follow…

Here are some from today:






Wednesday, April 23, 2014

April 24, 2014
We are sitting in the airport in Amsterdam after a long but smooth flight from JFK.  We are practicing some words in Lugandan, the language of the people in Kawete.  The young people speak quite a bit of English but it can't hurt to be able to communicate using a little Lugandan.

I've been thinking of some singing games to play with the children.  Learning some of their musical traditions will be a joy!  Just hope I can keep up!

Since this is my first time, I have no idea what to expect but know that the Holy Spirit is with us and will guide us through.  It is comforting to be with Kent as he has grown more confident with each of his visits to Kawete.  I am thrilled to witness his love and care for the children!

April 23, 2014

We are beginning our journey to Uganda!  We are excited and feel blessed to be able to go!  We are grateful for all the support from the CCLS-St. Louis, Concordia Lutheran Church, Glendale Lutheran Church, and Webster Gardens Lutheran Church communities!  We also want to thank our parents and our children for making it possible.  We serve Uganda with you!  We travel all day today and arrive at 3pm tomorrow St. Louis time (11pm Uganda).  We will be posting photos as we go as well. We hope you follow along and share our blog with your friends and family.