CUMC Uganda Mission Project: May 31: Let the Little Children Come to Me!

Students waiting during assembly for us to arrive.

We got to sleep in a little this morning. Had breakfast, another excellent team devotional, and then lounged a bit around the hotel. Then we headed to the school. There were no medical clinics today. Today was all about the children.

We arrived to all the students waiting for us in the assembly area. They had a program prepared for us. Each grade sang and danced for us. It is such a joy to hear the voices and see them dance. Their joy showed through their movements and songs. Incredible!

After a bit the children summoned the teachers to the stage to dance. To hear their shouts and screams we could tell this was something they love to see! As the teachers were lining up I took it upon myself to encourage the team to join in. The screams and shouts from the children when we took our turn sure brought joy to the school! Dancing Ugandan style involves a lot of hip shaking. Everyone took a turn. Each of us tried our best to keep up. We just let loose and danced to the Lord in joy!

After dancing we interacted with the kids for a few hours. They taught us some of their language's words, we took pictures and asked about their families. There are a ton of stories the team members will have to tell you. Each one has a story about a different child. All of them are a glimpse of heaven on earth!

I got to spend time with our sponsored kids. The siblings Viola, Reagan, and Mercy all ran up to me when they saw me and gave me a big hug. I love this little family and their Mama! Reagan and Mercy were more talkative this year. Viola, the oldest will take her leaving exam in the fall to go to High School. She is so excited! I got to share how proud my family is of them. How much God and the Thornton’s love them. So special!

With Stephan

I also met some new friends. Stephan, a soft spoken primary 7 student with a funny sense of humor could really cut loose on the dance floor. And Shadia, a sweet primary 4 student was always smiling. She seemed shy, but I could tell has leader potential. We don’t just share to have fun with the students (although that would be reason enough.) We really want each student to know of God’s love for them and understand that they are valuable.

With Shadia

God is using this school to grow children into his likeness. To see the transformation of the students and the community from year to year is amazing. I cannot help but have a tender spot in my heart for this school.

We ended the evening with dinner at Pastor Edward’s house. What a local feast! He and Julie treated us like royalty! He is my brother. And I love him.

We are winding down the trip. The team continues to be fantastic and work together. The last couple of days with our friends will be special. We plan to soak it all up!

Keep up the prayers. Thank you for your support.
Chris