Sunday Evening in Gulu

Tonight we attended a fellowship at the Methodist conference center for an association of area pastors in Gulu. Pastor Solomon (UMC, Layibi) organized the area Christian churches to bring unity so they can begin to bring healing and restoration to the area from the war.

Talk about a powerful time. Jody delivered a message about the church and had everyone pray for someone next to them; you could see each team member with hands on the shoulders of a Ugandan and vice versa. I was able to listen to their needs and pray for them and they lifted me up as well. It was a powerful moment. The church was being the church. Coming together in unity to support and encourage each other.

We then celebrated Holy Communion together. This was a powerful moment to be a part of. Bishop Wandabula asked me to serve with him and this was incredible. In a different way! The bishop went outside the church building and invited everyone sitting outside to partake of communion. I was holding half a loaf of bread (the bishop had the cup of coke) and I was wondering how this was going to work. But as the children began to come, I almost could not keep up with breaking the bread. It was chaos! We had to have Susan and another lady keep the kids from pushing and shoving, but once we got a line in order it was one after another. Some of the kids dumped their whole hand in the coke! The bishop and I just laughed and blessed the children till there was none left. He hugged me and thanked me for serving with him.

We had a portable movie projector with a 90 inch screen set up outside and showed the Jesus film in Acholi. Showing movies in Africa is always a well attended event! Jody reported that when Jesus rises from the dead on the movie the crowd applauded! I love that!

It was a good day. This time of teaching, worshipping and learning from each other is vital. Lifting up the church and supporting them as they work to bring healing, restoration and grace to their people.

The team has been simply amazing. I see them engaging and loving on people with no boundaries. They are quick to hug, high-five, shake hands, pray, dance or whatever. It is beautiful to see!

I was wondering when it would happen and tonight was it. Katherine was hanging out with kids and a young man asked if he could get her advice on dating. She said yes and he said he liked this girl and wanted to ask her out. It turned out to be her and so he asked if she would like to get married! She politely declined and came inside. Katherine has been so loving with the children. They climb in her lap and hold her hand; she just lets them in.

Great night. So honored to be here and support the church.
Off to bed. Tomorrow is a discipleship teaching day.
May God provide the speakers the words He wants to be spoken.

Chris