We began our day again on African time. We showed up promptly to our pastors meeting and were greeted by a few there. So we began to chat with them rather then moving into the church to start the meeting. We knew the many others would be along at some point so we spent some time outside, visiting with our new friends. Once all arrived we began the meeting with a prayer and an introduction. All of the pastors mentioned their marital status, with some adding they had one wife. So Randy added playfully, he too had only one wife.
The meeting was a highlight for us all. Many challenges were brought to the table such as: transportation, expectation and educating the people. But even more impactful were the amazing success stories of CHAP that we are eager to share with people when we get home. We were humbled at the amazing work that God is doing here for and through His people.
In the afternoon, we visited a clinic where Randy and Wilma gave their gifts of medical supplies. With Randy in his element, he joyfully gave the gifts while trying to explain what they were for to the staff at the clinic. We all prayed that the translation was clear especially for the children's tylenol.
We (Wilma, Taryn and Amy), decided to walk a bit back to town. Muriam joined us for the walk and tour. It has been a highlight for all of us to be able to build strong friendships with the great people here.
On Friday we split the day with shopping in Kampala and a visit to the youth centre and Taso, the AIDS support organization.
Yesterday we began and spent our morning painting for CHAP. With a little muscle and a few buckets of paint, we were able to give a small facelift to one of their areas. With a few streaks of paint left on us, we picked up a few shopping items before visiting our soon-to-be new 'families'.
With poverty and health issues affecting Ugandans each day and after seeing it first hand, we decided to jump in and help. So, that afternoon, some of us began our journey with our sponsored child. We had a rare opportunity with this type of sponsorship as we were able to visit our sponsored children and their families in their community. Being able to actually meet and shake hands with families that we would correspond with through letters and pictures in the days to come, was unforgettable. Through the organization, we had bought a bag of rice and sugar and brought this with us when we visited. It was unbelievable to be able to see how far our sponsorship stretches and the impact it makes.
Sunday, our last day here, came quickly. Our team spoke at two different churches and reached that moment where we must say goodbye. Tears streamed down our faces and the faces of those we had spent time getting to know. The journey to Kampala was somber after leaving friends that we had build a friendship with. We hope we will be able to return again.
We are now in Kampala awaiting our safari and are looking forward to seeing some of the beautiful and unique animals here. Lots of picture taking moments I'm sure.
Thank you for your continued patience with the technology issues here. More posts to come and many more stories I'm sure.
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