Uganda Trip - Day 3

Today was our first day at Upendo Christian Academy.  What an incredible sight.  From an empty field just a few short months ago to a property with beautiful buildings – dormatories, classrooms, kitchen facilities, even a duplex for the headmaster and other workers.  It was amazing to see, especially when I recalled the fact that the 40 AMG students who lived at “Camp El Har” lived in a small house on less than an acre of property.  Now those 40 young people are joined by 51 other students who are attending this school, and Lord willing, will be joined by over 100 more for next year’s school session.  God is doing great things.

On our way to Upendo it began to rain, and since the road leading in is all dirt, we were afraid of getting stuck in the mud, so we stopped on the side of the road for about 45 minutes.  During this time 3 of the Ugandans and 1 of our team members shared their testimonies.  What a joy to hear how these men who are the product of AMG’s ministry here over the past 16 years are now serving God at AMG, and have plans to continue serving in whatever capacity God allows for them.  Eventually we decided to brave the mud and after about 30 minutes of driving we made the final ¼ mile to the center.

The children were sitting outside awaiting our arrival.  Children and workers alike were visually enthusiastic at our arrival and greeted us with hugs, kisses and a warm “You are welcome” (the typical Ugandan greeting)  We spent the morning painting with the children, playing football, taking pictures, hanging out with the kids.  The team did an excellent job connecting with the kids, and I think everyone involved was blessed.

Around 2:00 we ate lunch.  They served us meat and potatoes, peas, and a bunch of typical Ugandan dishes.  The food was delicious.  They are so gracious and kind.

After lunch we joined with the children for worship and a time of challenge.  The children lead in worship by playing drums and singing.  The worship was super.  The singing went on for about 30 minutes, and then we had the opportunity to sing for them.  We were asked to sing “Lord I Lift Your Name on High”, so we did and asked them to join us.  After this, Vincent, a national worker, shared a challenge with the kids from Philippians 4.  He challenged them to think differently – we can all benefit from his challenge to think on pure, wholesome, lovely things.

Eventually we headed back to the Kopling House.  We had dinner and then met for our evening time of recap.  I loved listening to the team recount the blessings of the day, and I look forward to what God is going to do through us tomorrow.  Speaking of which – tomorrow we paint again.  Lot’s to do!