News From the Frontlines

June 2008 Mission Trip, Kabale Uganda

2008-01-06T16:17:00.000-06:00

June People For Missions trip to Kabale, Uganda
Trip Dates: June 7-23, 2008
Size of team: 20
Estimated Cost: $3,400 per person includes airfare, hotel, food, ground transportation. Not included Visas, passports or medicine.

Team Leaders: Bruce Georgi, Margaret Noblin

Activities:

House of Hope Kabale-one-on-one discipleship, sports ministry (soccer, basketball), help with bike repair, more bikes, gardening, resource center books, clothing, school supplies, garden tools, seeds bought in Uganda, encouraging the mum, helping with cooking for the kids

Villages-Crafts training in basket weaving and jewelry making, Bible Study-spiritual warfare, Jesus film (evangelism), Evangecube, medical mission, mosquito nets, safe water, Life Application Bibles for pastors reading English, need to research water wells and mosquito nets main problems

Mercy-Kabale Hospital and Nursing School available to people wanting to work with AIDS patients and children

Crafts Ministry-basket weaving, jewelry making, learning about business and how to evaluate costs, setting prices, evaluating designs, quality control

Bunyoni Lake Ministry to Orphans-1000 orphans are living around the lake without homes. We plan a field trip by boat of the area and to the island to educate our team.

AWANA and Children’s Ministry-opportunities to assist with the AWANA program or teach Sunday school in Children’s ministry

Senior Youth Ministry-opportunities to mentor secondary and university students in basic life skills, (discernment about dress, how to budget with the envelope system, part time jobs you can create when there are no jobs, honoring God in all that you do, being a light in the community 24/7) These are just a few areas where help is needed.

Travel Arrangements: We will fly into Kigali, Rwanda (3 hr. drive to Kabale, Uganda) and spend the first night in Kigali because the border closes at 7:30 p.m. then on to Kabale in the a.m. $50 visa for Uganda. Required. Just passport for Rwanda. Team will fly in and out of Kigali, Rwanda. We will be staying in the Stipp Hotel in Rwanda or comparable hotel and the White Horse Inn in Kabale. For information and application please email margaret_noblin@msn.com or call 214-366-0425.

Pray for Kenya...Violence Continues

2008-01-04T14:23:00.000-06:00

Please join us in prayer for our many friends in Kisumu, Nairobi and Eldoret. The church that had the women and children in it was an Assembly of God church in Eldoret and there were mostly children under 15 that were killed and burned. Around 30 were in the church and the others had gone. The women and children thought they were safe there.

Our friends in Kisumu at the church there are from several tribes and trying to shelter each other and help. One of the Rock businessmen who is Kukuya had his store burned down but fortunately we were able to get his inventory out before the looters. Some friends have it under protection. One of our scholarship students was stranded in Nairobi and we were able to get online with KLM and book an e-ticket for him to fly out to Entebbe. He is safe now. Praise the Lord. However we have been told all other transportation is closed and the road from Nairobi to Kisumu and on to Uganda has been ravaged with horrible things going on along the road. We have heard reports of killings with machetes and bow and arrows prior to Wednesday. This was why we felt we needed to get our Rock university student out of Nairobi as fast as possible.

Our friends in Kisumu are at home and Wednesday was the first day they could get food but only two groceries were open and the military was present so they could prevent riots. Many have fled to the villages but they are not safe either. The enemy wants to deceive, create mistrust, divide and conquer. The ladies in the crafts ministry have been so frightened for their lives especially the ones from the president’s tribe because there are gangs of young men just looking for an excuse for violence. The church is trying to do what they can but the military has been told to “shoot on sight” because the whole downtown area of Kisumu has been looted and many buildings burned. We were suppose to go to Kisumi in March so we are still going to Uganda but will see how things go. It is so shocking the horror that is taking place in this pretty little city on Lake Victoria we have visited regularly.

If you google “Kenya elections” you will see much of the video and details of what is happening. At least the demonstration for yesterday was stopped which had the potential for much more bloodshed. Our Rock student was an election official in Nairobi and has been in touch with us since last week. It seems from what the international observers said from Canada and the U.K that when the district tallies came into Nairobi this is where the numbers were changed. He said they were different that what the grassroots tallies were in some districts so the international observers requested a recount of those districts. When they refused and the President was quickly sworn in the violence began.

Many of our Kenyan friends are heartbroken and weeping when we talk to them on the phone. It breaks our hearts and we have prayed for them on the phone and encouraged them to sing for comfort to soothe their fear and maybe it may calm the angry mobs around them. Evil is so ugly and good leadership is so important in Africa. Prayer is really needed desperately for the people and leadership of Kenya.

The Rock African Arts Takes Off!

2008-01-04T14:15:00.000-06:00

Revival Crafts shipped several hundred items to the U.S. for sale by The Rock African Arts before Christmas and the ministry is bearing fruit. Ladies and some of the young men learned about U.S. Customs labeling and classification codes since all the items had to be prepared for the shipment. Learning about the export requirements was intersting and exposed the group to many aspects of setting up a business involving international trade.

Children from the House of Hope, Kabale made bracelets and necklaces to help with household expenses and school fees along with ladies in the church and students wanting to participate and have a part time business while in school.

Some of the jewelry is made of unique "trade beads". "Trade Beads" originated in Venice, Bohemia and European countries such as Germany, France and the Netherlands from the late 1400s to the early 1900s. Traded in Africa they were used by visitors as money to pay tribal chiefs. Today these popular, collectable beads can be seen in the Museum of Mankind in London, the Pitt River Museum in Oxford, the Royal Museum of Central Africa in Belgium, and the Murano Museum of Glass in Italy just to name a few around the world. Many styles which were readily available just 5 years ago are no longer seen today. How the beads survived a hundred or more years of wear and travel through at least three continents is amazing. It makes you wonder...who wore them before us and who will have them next. The trade beads, used in our jewelry are handmade from clay and ground glass and purchased as we find them in Kenya. The designs vary due to the unique nature of the beads.

The first shipment to the U.S. back in June surprised many members of the congregation when one Sunday Pastor Johnson announced that "those who had made baskets and jewelry could pick up their pay on Monday." There had been some naysayers who told people they would never sell anything but our Lord is faithful and now the ministry is expanding and many members are excited. Basic business skills are being taught so each person learns how to manage resources, set pricing, pay themselves and keep capital in reserve for more materials so they don't put themselves out of business. It is part of what Pastor Johnson calls "going to a new level." For more information on purchasing the crafts please e-mail africanarts@rockcapital.org. Soon items will be available on E-bay through the Internet.

An Outing and A Life Jacket Adventure

2007-11-30T20:57:00.002-06:00

The outing to Bushara Island with the House of Hope kids and a few friends who help us at the home was definitely a family memory maker. It was a great adventure. Many of the children had never worn life jackets so we had to have a little discussion on how you use them and not to be fearful of the water.

Isaac insisted that he sit between Prossy and me so we could protect him on the way over to the island. By the time we returned he was really loving it and had overcome his fear. Love does that when everyone is encouraging one another and all the older kids were telling him it would be OK and he trusted what they said.

Many thanks to those who made the adventure possible and also the purchase of the clothes we needed for the children. It was the first time the girls could go shopping and choose what they wanted and stay in a budget. I gave Prossy some money and an envelope and said this is what you have to spend…please bring receipts and stay in the budget and be a good negotiator. Also I said please don’t call me and ask for more money because you are not budgeting properly! They all laughed and did a great job buying skirts, shoes and even had enough left to get earrings.

The older boys received an envelope with money for trousers and were told to be good negotiators also. For many this was the first pair of new trousers they ever had and to be able to shop for them was so fun for these adolescent guys. I have to say they made good choices with nice fabric and quality construction. The night before church I found myself hemming John's pants so they wouldn't drag on the ground. We even had a lesson in tailoring. Praise God for his provision and the good stewardship of the children.

This thanksgiving I have had tears of joy to be a part of this precious spiritual family. I love each one of them so much and can’t wait to return in March.

Rock Fellowship On Solid Ground

2007-11-30T19:46:00.000-06:00

In September the Rock scholarship students in Kampala began meeting for fellowship, prayer, Bible study and sharing life experiences. During our trip we were privileged to attend two of the sessions. Many thanks to Ben for fixing two delicious lunches and Lutaaya and Ben teaching about the "condition of the heart" and "who is Jesus." During both meetings the Socratic method of teaching was employed to encourage discussion and evaluation of the material covered. The discussions were stimulating and application oriented.

At the end of each meeting the guys gathered to pray and share prayer requests from the heart. Mark and I were so touched by the transparency of the students and the bond of true Christian friendship that is developing. These men are serious about their faith and it is evident they are focused on honoring God in all they do.

EMI Completes Kabale Site Plan

2007-08-16T13:47:00.000-05:00

God continues to open doors in Kabale as Revival Tabernacle Ministries reaches out to the community. Engineering Ministries International in conjunction with People for Missions/Houses of Hope and Revival Tabernacle Ministries has developed an exiting plan for a multipurpose facility in Kabale to serve the area. In May the EMI team visited and designed a beautiful structure to meet the phase one needs of the ministry.

The building will serve as a hub for outreach with food distributed from Children's Hunger Fund, AWANA activities for the children, business training for church members, House of Hope and church administration, church services, Sunday school classes, conferences for village pastors,and periodic clinics for children in the neighborhood needing basic medical attention.

A schedule of meetings is in process to share the vision with friends in the U.S. wanting to partner with us in the ministry. We hope to raise funds for phase I in the coming year and are excited about meeting new people God wants involved with His work.

With the large population of children needing family homes, the ministry feels a burden to expand into the surrounding areas. Future plans include developing construction options of more single family Houses of Hope in Kabale and around Lake Bunyonyi as more children are provided with a new future. Mark and Margaret are available to visit churches or other groups interested in learning more about the ministry work in Kabale. For more information e-mail us at margaret_noblin@msn.com or call 214-366-0425. http://revivaltabernacleministries.blogspot.com

Being Flexible As A Team Member!

2007-06-24T16:18:00.000-05:00

Brittany and Margaret had to make a quick trip in to town to get paint for scripture verses being painted in the homes. This meant riding a "boda boda" (motorcycle) to the public dock 15 minutes away then going across the lake by boat to catch a taxi.

Upon discovering we needed some small bricks, Charles proceeded to use his Karate skill and break a brick with his hand! You never know what skills the Lord is going to use!

Reflections of the Clinic Team

2007-06-24T15:37:00.001-05:00

How amazing after two years to see a vision become reality. More than half of the team returning to Uganda was part of the 2005 House of Hope construction team. At that time Travis Decanter(in boat with glasses) shared his story and the impact the lack of medical care had on him as a child. A vision was birthed and the journey began. Now Travis and the Mississippi team with the help of others returned to have "their hands on the bricks to build the clinic." The group raised over $30,000 to construct the clinic organizing auctions, fish frys and other fundraising events in several neighboring towns in northern Mississippi.

The team toured the main clinic facility which offers support to the Bethany Clinic being constructed. Dr. Martin is the director of Wentz Medical Center and the visiting physician who works with a nurse practitioner at the village clinic.

Below are some pictures of the children being served by the clinic. As one of the Bethany staff members said, "a hug or a pat on the back means the world to these children who have been so alone and without attention." If we didn't do anything else but show the love of Jesus with a hug, a pat or an encouraging word the trip was a success.

Words of Encouragement at Home

2007-06-24T15:22:00.000-05:00

God's word is such an encouragement to the children and parents in the homes at Bethany Village, Uganda. Several team members painted scripture verses on the walls when they weren't laying bricks for the clinic!

Unity A Witness to Ugandans

2007-06-24T11:27:00.000-05:00

The June Bethany Clinic Team at the construction site had such unity that the Ugandan workers asked for prayer for the same unity for themselves.

The Ugandans watched with amazement as team members passed, mortared and stacked bricks quickly organizing themselves for the next task, putting construction ahead of schedule.

Team members distributed free medicine at the dispensary and shared the Good News of Jesus while moms waited with their children.The new clinic will serve the children in Bethany Village and provide emergency care for the community.

One little boy, Mark, captured our hearts as he trusted Jesus hearing the Gospel with the aid of pictures on the Evangecube.

Several team members worked at Bethany School performing puppet shows and assisting teachers grading papers and demonstrating how to integrate Biblical truths in the classroom. Other teaching techniques which incorporate a Biblical world view were demonstrated in the classroom.

Teamwork at Home...Chores can be fun!

2007-04-17T21:43:00.001-05:00

Smiles, new clothes, a sense of belonging, love of a spiritual mum and dad along with brothers and sisters are a few of the elements making the new House of Hope Kabale a home. In addition to the spiritual and emotional side of the family are the practical tasks required to run a household. Pastor Johnson and Evas are training the children to manage the home by creating teams for shopping, household maintenance, meal preparation and compound maintenance. In the future another garden team will be added when the compost bin and garden are ready for planting and maintenance.

Each team has a team leader who is trained by Pastor Johnson and Evas. The leader then trains their team in the tasks assigned to their group. After a month rotating each week and learning different tasks all of the children will be trained in managing the home. When Evas goes shopping the shopping team joins her and learns how to choose fruits and vegetables in the market, budget the money for each week and keep records of what is being spent. The household maintenance team keeps the kitchen and bathrooms clean, removes rubbish, cleans the floors and makes sure the interior of the home is in order. The most popular team function is food preparation which involves meal planning, cooking, setting the table, cleaning the dishes and proper storage of food. Cleaning, slashing the grass, trimming the hedges, plus arranging flowers for the house and sweeping the outside compound are a few of the tasks of the compound maintenance team.

Practical life skills are just part of the wholistic approach to equipping the children for success in the future. Learning to use indoor plumbing is a new experience for the children but as Pastor Johnson reports, "the children are picking up using the plumbing. I'm amazed how they learn things so easily." After only two weeks Johnson says, "Evas is getting used to taking care of the many children. She has had a fun time learning to budget for many children. The children are also doing well and learning to work as a team."

Teaching by example that humility in doing any job is important and that teamwork makes work easy and fun are helping the children learn important principles.

Reflections-Opening the House of Hope

2007-04-09T19:59:00.001-05:00

The following is an account from Pastor Johnson as he observed the children coming to their new home in Kabale.

Today the children entered the house, you missed seeing the great joy and excitement upon their faces. Some of them it was their first time to know they are going to sleep on a mattress, with bed sheets! Others being sure that they will at least have food daily was too much for them. Some of them have never been loved, your first message of belonging was taken seriously and the point went home. They are sure of love, comfort and protection. Knowing that they have a home is enough for most of them. Yet others knowing that their school fees will be paid on time and they won't have to be chased from school from time to time was great inspiration.

We went in a disorganized way because not much was complete by today. The house was not yet ready, but we said they will finish up when we are in the house. Benson too,had not finished all the furniture, I didn't see him to explain, but the children said they would rather sleep on the floor but sleep in their new home!One by one, they started coming in around 4:00 p.m, with their luggage in polythene bags.

On entering the house they would scream and shout with joy!They immediately helped to clean up the place, some mothers came to give a hand to clean the place. It was exciting, each one being part of the solution. They worked together and made the work easier. They already feel they are part of one family. It has been a tiresome day but I just could not go to bed with out sending you a word or two about the experience of entering the house.

Pastor Johnson's wife Margaret with Issac (left), Bruce (middle) and Andrew(right) as they give their testimonies of God's faithfulness in church after being in the House of Hope one week.

Young Businessman Bearing Fruit

2007-03-28T10:47:00.000-05:00

What a thrill it has been to watch John Wasswa grow into a prosperous businessman and a disciple with a strong desire to share his spiritual blessings and business knowledge. In 2005, John received a loan from the men's loan ministry (The Rock Kingdom Capital Outreach) to purchase additional machinery to grow his budding weaving business (he makes sweaters purchased by schools for uniforms). Not only has his business grown, he also has diversified, made all loan repayments on time, faithfully tithed to the church and set a Godly example of how to do business. Now John is ready to share the blessings by training and overseeing children in the new House of Hope in Kabale so that they may learn an income producing skill. We have set a standard that the House of Hope in Kabale be self-supporting within five years by the children being trained and earning income in such areas as weaving, sewing, gardening, arts and crafts,etc.

God Has Remembered Me!

2007-03-28T10:29:00.001-05:00

House of Hope Kabale becomes a reality with grinning children overwhelmed with joy as they step inside the gate of their new home. Developing a sense of belonging was the focus of a game played during one of the evening sessions preparing the children.

Pastor Johnson Bakashaba, Yvonne Pickens, an assistant principal at Prestonwood Christian Academy and the Noblins worked as a team to evaluate the children’s needs and develop plans for the transition of children who have been out of school requiring special assistance to “catch up.” A sewing machine was purchased along with supplies to provide opportunities to learn a variety of skills. The children were encouraged to pray and think about ways to be creative in using God’s resources.

“God has remembered me,” beamed John, one of the children who previously had no permanent secure home.(Top picture in the green shirt and khaki shorts) The children were chosen by Pastor Johnson Bakashaba of Revival Tabernacle Ministries, who already had taken eight orphans into his own home with his wife and three natural children. An orphan himself, he has a special heart for desperate children, including those forced to live on the street. Four of the boys in the new House of Hope were living on the street before God provided an opportunity for us to assist in launching an AWANA Club in Kabale last summer. Through the club, which emphasizes Bible verse memory, awards and games, the four street boys trusted Jesus and now they are loved, housed, fed, schooled and disciipled with 12 fellow “brothers and sisters” in the House of Hope. Pastor Johnson will provide fatherly parental love and leadership to the children, who also will be cared for by Evas, a faithful widow of the church. God provided funds to open the house, but there still is a need for more supporters to meet monthly expenses.

Surprised by God-Given Skills

2007-03-28T10:22:00.000-05:00

Sitting under a tree making beautiful jewelry out of natural seed pods, bones and trade beads is where you find a group of hard-working Kisumu women. There is a wonderful atmosphere of encouragement, teamwork and creativity. Some of the ladies prepare the beads by drilling holes, while others string, discuss designs and package the completed items. The bracelets, necklaces and earrings are beautiful creations of wearable art combining wood, bone, bamboo, glass and other unusual elements.

In November a group of ladies in Kisumu began a jewelry making class sponsored by Deliverance Church. Perez Oselu shared this week that “the ladies had never done anything like this. It was totally new for them.” However in a short time they have developed into creative artisans.

Being able to create, design and produce wearable art pieces was a talent many of the ladies found surprising. If you are interested in purchasing some of the items they are available at the Houses of Hope Gift Shop,201 Sparta Road, Belton, Texas 76513(254)933-8399,which helps support widows, orphans and women in need.

Go and Make Disciples!

2007-03-28T10:13:00.000-05:00

Go and Make Disciples! This is what AWANA, a children’s discipleship ministry is all about. Children from Prestonwood AWANA club are actively participating in making disciples by planting AWANA clubs in Wakiso and Busia Uganda. Between the two clubs over 100 children will be discipled in a special way in their communities.

Susan Kaddu, of Central Baptist Wakiso Church said the week following the AWANA kickoff, “already children are bringing their parents to church when they weren’t coming before.” She said the discipline of time keeping is even having an impact in just one week. “Children showed up early for AWANA the second time which is very unusual for Africans.”

In Busia the children were eager to get started with game time and we are excited to see how this club is going to impact the border town between Uganda and Kenya.

The Kenyan AWANA Missionary reports receiving, “a bunch of requests to start AWANA clubs in various churches in Kisumu.” The first club started just a few months ago. God’s word is powerful and the enthusiasm of children is very contagious.

Hope, Restoration Begins at Home in Kabale

2007-03-12T06:27:00.001-05:00

Pastor Johnson and the members of Revival Tabernacle welcomed the team Sunday morning. Margaret met with the house mom and the children today after church to begin preparations and brief the children as to the status of opening the home. They were such sweet children and all participate in AWANA and Sunday school at the church. Pastor Johnson said he chose these particular children because he felt they already had a natural connection in the church and that all had trusted Jesus as their Lord.

Margaret spoke to them about their identity in Christ, how we are all adopted children of the Lord and needed to adjust to being together as a family. Pastor Johnson and Margaret wanted to set some expectations with the children of what to expect in their new life. Several things were discussed such as having a sense of belonging, standing up for your brothers and sisters, understanding that their will be disagreements, that Pastor Johnson was their new Daddy, being aware that some of the children have bad hurts and that each member of the family must be patient and kind as everyone adjusts. Sharing stories and healing past hurts was an aspect of the orientation. A friend of Yvonne Pickens and the Noblins, Lutaaya Abdul, a former Muslim now born-again, who ministers to street children and orphans in Kampala shared his story and how he adjusted when he was living on the street as a young boy.

Several of the boys who are on the street were suspicious but as Lutaaya told his story their body language changed and they relaxed and listened intently. You could see the relief in their faces as they connected with the experiences of the pain and fear of being beaten by older street kids as they tried to survive in a rough environment. Many times Ugandans “keep quiet” when they hurt so when these things are discussed it is unusual. Margaret talked to the children about bringing the hurts out in the light so they could heal and asked them to pray about a sister or brother who would be their prayer partner and close friend in the family. As the healing process begins there will be many challenges for the house mom and the children. Please join us in praying for these children we believe God has chosen to be restored with a hope and a future.

Eighty Excited Children in Wakiso Uganda

2007-03-12T06:05:00.000-05:00

Saturday was a day of excitement for the children at Central Baptist Church Wakiso, Uganda. Children from Prestonwood Baptist Church in Plano,Texas sponsored the majority of the students while the church “topped up” with the rest. Yvonne Pickens who is an AWANA leader at Prestonwood was on site with the Noblins for the kickoff club time. Consistently the AWANA clubs have drawn more children than expected and had a huge impact on the community.

The children in Prestonwood AWANA have sponsored the start up of several Uganda clubs through their own donations in partnership with the local churches where the clubs are planted. “It is so wonderful to be able to take back pictures to the children who have donated their offerings to these clubs” said Yvonne Pickens. “It really teaches the children about missions in a personal way.”

During this trip the team will be kicking off another club, sponsored by the Prestonwood AWANA, in Busia on the Uganda border with Kenya. We look forward to hearing stories of more children sharing the word of God with their parents and bringing them to church.

House of Hope Kabale, Uganda*

2007-03-02T08:32:00.001-06:00

Do you know people who might want to join us in this amazing opportunity to bless Bruce (left) and John (right) who have been living on the street and joined AWANA recently in Kabale? They have hope because they believe in Jesus and like the other 13 orphaned children know God has a plan for them. Below are pictures of the House of Hope Compound for the 15 children proposed by Pastor Johnson.

Pastor Johnson has had the vision of providing a House of Hope for 15 children who are either total orphans, partial orphans with dying parents, or have been deserted to give them a safe, secure Christian home. We have had many discussions with Pastor Johnson about his vision and how it fosters a growth path for each child to be all God wants them to be.

Below are some of the distinguishing factors:

• Heal the hurts of the children through the use of Biblical counseling (Hope for the Heart) materials and training, fostering an environment of physical, emotional and spiritual security. Many children have been abused, abandoned, rejected and despised.
• Provide for a child who is orphaned, deserted or displaced to live in a Christian home where they are loved, nurtured, and trained to understand what it means to be responsible, contributing members of a family and society.
• Provide tutoring and other educational resources to lay a foundation preparing them to reenter school to get a good education. Some children have been living on the street and are not at grade level educationally.
• Develop entrepreneurial opportunities for the children to work and learn Biblical business skills to counter the corruption in Ugandan society. Some of the activities will include: jewelry making, vegetable gardening, sewing, raising chickens, arts and crafts, tourism activities and hospitality industry skills. The vision includes developing productive disciples and citizens in the community.
• Participate in ministry activities to foster knowledge of the Bible, application of scripture in day to day life and service as members of the body in the church. Some of the children already participate in AWANA Children’s Discipleship Ministry at the church.
• Match the children with mentors to disciple them and establish them in their spiritual growth.

$19,760 Minimum covers all the costs of the home for the first year. Including in this amount are the furnishings (living room, dining room, bunk beds, mattresses, sheets, towels, pillows, blankets, kitchen utensils, pots, pans, dishes, utensils, storage containers for bulk food) rent, utilities, food, staffing, clothes, school fees, medical care and personal items for each child (trunk, backpack, Bible)

The total breakdown of $19,760 is below:

• $4,760 Initial setup fees for furnishing the 7 room home includes: living room, dining room and kitchen furniture, dishes, utensils, pots and pans, and providing basic things for each child such as complete medical exam, bed, mattress, pillow, sheets, towels, blanket, mosquito nets, trunks, back packs, clothes, shoes, Bible and personal hygiene items.

• $1,250 monthly expense includes food, housing, staff, utilities, clothes, school fees and medical care for 15 children.

$2,000-5,000 Job Skills Ministry Start Up extras for materials for jewelry making, a sewing machine, fabric, bicycles for transport business, carpentry tools and wood carving materials, gardening tools, art supplies for greeting cards, chicken raising, and appliances for the kitchen (they can cook on charcoal until we get these for regular meals but Western appliances are needed for catering business)

Thanks for passing the information along to friends who might be interested. Most of the children are ages 12-16 with one 9 yr old and all are total orphans. Several people are being interviewed as house parents this week with one being a widow who is a secondary teacher with one adult son in college.

We plan on taking yearly sponsor trips to visit the home so that people will be able to see the ministry in action and meet the children. We appreciate your help in getting the word out.

* A ministry of People for Missions/House of Hope(501c3)and Revival Tabernacle Ministries of Kabale, Uganda. All contributions to People for Missions or House of Hope are tax-deductable. Please make checks payable to House of Hope, Kabale and mail to the Noblins, House of Hope Kabale, 4070 Meadowdale Lane, Dallas, TX 75229.

Construction Trip June 9-24th, 2007

2007-01-12T16:29:00.000-06:00

Funding is complete and we are ready to build the Bethany Clinic in June! People for Missions is organizing the trip from June 9th-24th and the first meeting is scheduled for January 21st.

Please join us for the informational session, Sunday January 21st from 3:00-4:30 p.m. in Room E121 of the Education Building at Bent Tree Bible Fellowship, Carrollton, Texas. Would you please pass this information along to the life groups, community groups or any individuals who might be interested in Uganda? We have a few spots to fill and really need an electrician in particular to do the wiring during construction of the clinic in Bethany Village, (located 30 minutes boat ride across Lake Victoria from Kampala, Uganda).

The total trip cost is $3,000 all inclusive of airline tickets, Uganda food, lodging, ground transportation. Not included are passports, shots, personal medications, spending money, and extra personal expenses.

Areas of ministry include 1) constructing a medical clinic for the Bethany Village community (funds have been raised for materials) 2) ministering to children and the house parents in Bethany. There are 10 homes with 12-15 children in each home. 3) lifestyle evangelism with the children in the homes…sharing our personal testimonies and how God is working in our lives, encouraging hurting children. 4) working with the children in the neighborhood school (they are in session in June) supporting the teachers and bringing materials for the classroom 5) visiting the villages nearby to minister to hurting people by sharing hope and mercy and the Gospel. 6) visiting the children who were helped by the PFM team two years ago. If God has given you the desire to go to Uganda we encourage you to apply.

God gets more glory the greater number of people involved! If you would like to participate in the trip in other ways, would you consider praying about helping in one of the areas listed below?

+ Prayer support for provision, health, ministry materials

+ Provide the medicines and shots for team members

+Financial support to go $3,000 per person total cost of the trip.

Application due ASAP.

$150 Deposit due February 15th
$2,000 2nd payment due April 15th
$850 Final payment due May 9th

For more information please contact Margaret or Mark.

E-mail Margaret margaret_noblin@msn.com

E-mail Mark marknoblin@hotmail.com

Being Alert Reaps Fruit

2007-01-01T14:47:00.000-06:00

“AWANA has been a tremendous blessing to our community and to our children. Parents testify that their children can now recite scripture verses and they now pray before eating and before going to bed. Our children know the Lord now than before. The community we serve in is known for breeding thieves and bad boys, but the impact of AWANA is being felt on the community as it influences children to behave godly, our children are influencing the entire children in the community”, reports Pastor Johnson, Revival Tabernacle Ministries, Kabale, Uganda.

Pastor Johnson tells many stories of the children roaming the streets of Kabale early in the morning looking for food in the rubbish bins and living a life without hope. As he went to the Internet cafe one morning he was struck by the sadness and hopelessness of these children. Forty percent of his church is made up of children. The children in the picture above only allowed the picture after Pastor Johnson committed to help them. Many people make promises to help but few follow through. AWANA provides a beginning and the church as it is able helps the children as God puts them in Johnson's path. As the AWANA leaders minister to these children their lives begin to change and step by step God opens doors.

The boys above came from the street and joined AWANA and are now in church. John sat for Primary Leaving Examination and is joining S.1 next year. Bruce has been in and out of school because of being on street and having no one to take care of him. He is supposed to be in Primary 4. Plans are being made to put both of them in the House of Hope home beginning this year for orphans or abandoned children. One child at a time God is placing children in our path. Who knows these young boys may grow up to be strong disciples of Jesus impacting the future of their community.

Merry Christmas from the Noblins!

2006-12-16T21:30:00.000-06:00

Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year! This year has had many ups and downs but if there were not challenges we would not be as alert to the blessings of the Lord. One of the biggest blessings was the birth of our fourth grandchild, Peter David on July 22th. (Peter is in Mark's lap grinning!) What a healthy, happy little boy! After returned from Uganda this summer the Noblins couldn't wait to get to Columbus, Ohio to visit their family. Samuel, Stephen, Hannah and Peter were a joy to be around along with their daughter Audrey and her husband Chris.

Below they are enjoying a new bicycle for Stephen and the wonderful weather. Walks around the neighborhood, swinging at the playground, reading stories at the library, visiting the zoo and exploring on nature walks kept the three oldest children on the go with their grandparents. Audrey and Chris were glad to have some help with the laundry and other household duties as they adjusted to the new arrival of Peter.

Christmas is the time to reflect and enjoy your families. God bless you richly as you show the love of Jesus to family and friends.

A Hope and A Future for Christine

2006-12-16T21:24:00.000-06:00

Sometimes we think we are in control...but are we really and are we really being obedient to the Holy Spirit when we hear that little voice in our mind talking to us...urging us to do something that our intellect tells us we should be cautious? This is a testimony to God's power and "the fear of man." Do we do what the Holy Spirit is urging us to do are do we do what our intellect tells us?

God was working in Christine's life and had a plan with people He wanted to participate in that plan. But would the people be obedient? First Pastor Johnson and Dr. Michael spread the seeds and continued to pray. Then Christine applied and got accepted in nursing school. Next Pastor Johnson mentions to a ministry friend in the U.S. the need but that person was resistant. "We need to raise money for a new church, a home for the orphans, a crafts ministry and all these other things. How could this person contact people about Christine when there were so many other projects that were so important? " she said.

But God is in control and continued to persist and the Holy Spirit was at work on many. Finally after Pastor Johnson being persistent and Dr. Michael continuing to encourage prayer, the friend in the U.S. was moved to send our an e-mail on Christine's behalf. The Holy Spirit was sending a message..."the fear of man is a snare. Trust God, He has this all worked out you just need to be obedient and present the opportunity to bless another believer." The friend prayed about who to send the e-mail to and the Holy Spirit provided another scripture verse...Jeremiah 29:11. "For I know the plans I have for you," declares the Lord, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future."

Within 24 hours funds had been donated to provide for the first two years of Christine's nursing school fees. God is faithful when we are obedient. He is in all the details but we play an important part in the process. Even when we make mistakes before we are believers, He is waiting to restore us and wants many to join in the process.

This week Christine began nursing school in Kabale and she has a hope and a future.

What Pastor Johnson E-mailed after Christine gave her testimony at church on Sunday:

Christine came to church today and she was all joyful, that at one time she failed words and tears filled her eyes for joy."God has rubbed tears from my eyes and filled me with joy, for the first time I can now laugh from the bottom of my heart and shed tears of joy" said Christine. It is true, this girl has always been sorrowful, she repented truly and turned to the Lord and she has over the years grown in the Word and in the Lord, but the fact that she was rejected by her own parents left a big scar on her heart, she always questioned herself whether any body on earth loved her. We have always tried to show her love, but the love you have shown her even when you don't know her is overwhelming. "I thank God and i thank all the people God has used to restore hope in my life" Christine said today in service. The whole church thanked God for her, because they love her, she is exemplary and so committed. She volunteers alot in serving the Lord in church. Christine is a friend of every one, children and adults alike. Her testimony is very good even in the community. Everybody rejoiced with her. We are sincerely grateful for the support you have given to her to the glory of God. God richly bless you.

Yours in the Lord,

Pastor Johnson Bakashaba

New Blog About Revival in Kabale

2006-12-02T11:40:00.000-06:00

A new blog has been set up for Revival Tabernacle Ministries in Kabale,Uganda. This ministry is a partner where God is opening many doors. Please visit it to find out more details about opportunities to serve in Western Uganda.

http://www.revivaltabernacleministries.blogspot.com/

Glorious Service of Thanksgiving

2006-11-26T15:59:00.000-06:00

Pastor Johnson reports on the service today. "We had a glorious service today, this was our first service in the church with a roof, a part from the old shelter, which we left more than two years ago. It was today that we could tell the difference, we were kind of used to the open space. There was great joy in the service as people were testifying one by one of the goodness of the Lord.

I also visited the Sunday school and the teachers were distributing the shoes and clothes, I have sent Yvonne some of the pictures hoping you saw them. You should have seen the joy on the faces of children who were putting on shoes for the first time. It was fun for them. Some of them ... it was hard to have the shoe on the foot though it was the right size because the feet were not used to shoes."

New Tin Roof After Downpour!

2006-11-26T14:38:00.000-06:00

Rain, wind and blown off tarps made it difficult for members of Revival Tabernacle Ministries to study, worship and serve the community in this temporary structure. But God is good and when a recent visitor experienced the downpour as he preached, God touched his heart along with several members of the local congregation. Now the structure has been rebuilt with a new tin roof.

The site is the location for a more substantial church to be designed by Engineering Ministry International. All of the ministry activities such as church services, AWANA, women's ministy and Bible studies use this temporary facility.

If you are interested in helping with fundraising for the new multipurpose building for Revival Tabernacle Ministries in Kabale, please contact us.

Sweet Smiles and Sweatshirts

2006-11-26T14:14:00.000-06:00

Children in Kabale are warmer with their new sweatshirts as the cool weather and rain causes temperatures to drop. Kabale is in western Uganda near the Rwenzori Mountains and as a result the climate is cooler. When asked what the children needed, Pastor Johnson mentioned, "warm clothes." So a friend from Trinity Christian Academy in Dallas, Texas asked the school if they had any clothes to donate. Wow! Warm, new sweatshirts were the perfect weight for the cool days even though Kabale is near the equator. Smiles abound as the children show up toasty warm for Sunday school.

Many thanks to Trinity Christian Academy for their generousity to these Ugandan children.

Land for Children's Home Buoye, Kenya

2006-11-15T08:57:00.000-06:00

Mzee (pictured below wearing hat) the head of the village donated land for a House of Hope for children on our last visit. Today we met with Pastor Paul Oselu who will oversee the project and Mzee. As we walked the grounds he decided to provide more land for the initial home and allow for further expansion with possibly a school or clinic. One of the children in the village recently died of asthma because they were too far from the hospital. We are beginning the process of completing the Engineering Ministry International application form to receive guidance on the project. The area is very beautiful with lots of aloe vera growing wild.

Margaret ministered to the ladies on the last trip and encouraged them to use the resources God put in their path to generate an income. Much to her surprise they showed up with some beautiful seed necklaces and bracelets. Samples are being brought back for the Houses of Hope store. The women and children are excited about making the necklaces and also some sisal baskets.

Mark shared with the church congregation the plan for the homes and also a garden to help the homes be self-sustaining in 5 years. As we partner with various churches we want to equip and raise prosperous disciples. Mark told the group, "it is better to teach a man to fish than to give a man a fish. If he learns to fish he can eat for a lifetime instead of just one day."

When asked "are you ready for the challenge?" They responded with clapping and cheering. Step by step we are seeing God open more doors to minister and give hope to the widows and orphans.

Kisumu AWANA Gains Momentum

2006-11-14T13:44:00.000-06:00

"Train a child in the way he should go and when he is old he will not turn from it." Proverbs 22:6

Today 30 leaders were trained by Charles Ndertu, the AWANA Missionary from Nairobi, at Deliverance Church in Kisumu, Kenya. A few weeks ago 50 children were registered and a waiting list started. By the day of the kick off 120 children were on the list. Many thanks to the Bent Tree Bible Fellowship life group that sponsored the start up fees for the club. You are storing up great treasures in Heaven!

The joy of the leaders, children and parents experiencing AWANA for the first time was a huge blessing. Several of the men from the men's discipleship group, who went through the class Mark taught on the last trip are volunteering as leaders. Even the AWANA commander George was a part of the Kingdom builders group of businessmen. (See blog story "Iron Men" of Kisumu Kingdom Builders)

God is so faithful and so far 114 children are sponsored for the club and parents are paying a percentage of the cost while AWANA International subsidizes the rest. We are trusting the Lord for members of the church in Kisumu to partner with their U.S. brothers and sisters to "top up" for the rest of the children. Once again AWANA began a club from America and it became a Kenyan ministry with the church partnering in support. The AWANA missionary said, "this is going to be a big club because the leadership is really committed." God is creating momentum in this church and being the first AWANA club in the city is an exciting development.

Medicine, Mercy and Love in Kabale

2006-11-13T07:33:00.000-06:00

Master the AWANA commander with the doctor and some children.

Pastor Johnson and Dr. Michael with one of the nurses in training

Medicine and instructions for the children

Over 200 women and children were assisted with free medical care and drugs during the medical outreach done from the church. Two Ugandan nurses in training assisted in conjunction with a nurse from Kampala and a doctor who is a member of the church congregation. Because several of you helped with the cost of the drugs, some children are more comfortable tonight and some moms have peace of mind that their children are getting well. We left behind enough additional medicines to serve the children for several weeks. Pastor Johnson asked if it might be possible to continue the ministry in the future because the people in the poor community were so appreciative.

God at Work in Kabale

2006-11-13T06:32:00.000-06:00

From the moment we arrived in Kabale, God had many things for us to do. Pastor Johnson Bakashaba met with us to define the vision of Revival Tabernacle Ministries and the phases needed to partner with the ministry in a variety of ways. As we talked we identified several priorities in the short term.

First the church facility is not adequate for the growing congregation. (There is a nearby building that is used for small group meetings but is too crowded for church services.)They have moved to the land they own and are using a temporary structure which is woefully inadequate when it rains. While we were there it rained a lot and the tented structure had to be repaired due to no substantial roof. (See picture below.)

The church is the central meeting place of the ministry and a new community center/worship center will provide a home base for many activities such as AWANA, crafts ministry training, medical and mercy ministry to orphans and widows and mid-week and Sunday services and Bible studies. At the same time funds are accumulating to begin a House of Hope for abandoned or orphaned children. The short term ministry tasks pertain to working with Engineering Ministries International to come up with a basic facility to accommodate 500 people and find a home for the children in the neighborhood. Like Nehemiah we are prayfully considering what needs to be done, seeking approval from various Ugandan sources, doing careful research and developing a plan. Please join us in prayer as we know God wants many people to be involved in this ministry.

Long term plans include acquiring more land to build Houses of Hope for children, a school, an Internet cafe, a community kitchen at the church, a dispensary for the medical and mercy ministry, a guest house to generate income and also provide life skill training for orphans along with a child sponsorhip office.

The foundation for administering the ministry needs to be solid to allow for a meeting place for the various activities in the interim. Step by step the Lord is ordering our way so that we build a strong foundation in the church as a hub and branch out as we partner with the congregation in Kabale.

Bibles Held High!

2006-11-12T10:09:00.000-06:00

Words can't describe the excitement of the pastors and leaders receiving Life Application Bibles with their names on them. From Kampala to Rukungiri to Kabale,Uganda and Kisumu, Kenya Bibles were held high and many were praising the Lord. In Uganda and Kenya there is a lack of seminary training for staff members and having Life Application Bibles allows leaders in the church to better understand the Word and apply it as they teach.

We have been careful to give them to people who are serious teachers and those who have requested the Bibles. Thank you so much for assisting in this ministry. You have no idea how much impact each Bible has on the communities where these leaders live. A list is already starting for AWANA leaders requesting copies of the Bible for our next trip in March!

The Eyes Have It! Rukungiri AWANA

2006-11-06T02:28:00.000-06:00

Sunday, Nov. 5 Rukungiri Community Church began AWANA with 100 children sponsored by U.S. donors. But 147 extra children showed up wanting to participate.

Pastor Elisha Kakwerere along with his wife Rebecca and David Echau the AWANA missionary for Uganda challenged the congregation to partner and sponsor the rest of the children. Before the kickoff meeting was over the 147 children were sponsored by church members. It began a "Mzungu" (the African term for caucasians) ministry from the U.S. but ended a UGANDAN AWANA ministry to children. Praise God the church leadership responded and the congregation responded. Enjoy the pictures of the precious children participating in AWANA for the first time in Western Uganda.

Saturday was spent training the AWANA leaders and learning the games.

Answered Prayers...Thanks for Praying

2006-11-06T02:22:00.000-06:00

1. Safe travel and no lost bags.
2. Rest and good health.
3. Training logistics with training for business men and pastors.
4. Good meeting with EMI.
5. Hearts prepared for AWANA.
6. Safe travel to Kabale and Rukungiri.
7. AWANA miracle-247 children sponsored at Rukungiri Community church.
8. Good weather most of the time.
9. Good communication with pastors and leaders.
10. Appropriate expectations set for ministry relationship in Kabale.
11. Open door with Uganda Pastor Joshua's church finance class.
12. Preparation in Kenya progressing for AWANA club in mid November.

God’s Word Changes Uganda Businesses

2006-11-06T02:20:00.000-06:00

Several people gave testimonies of changes in their business practices after Mark’s two-day “Doing Business God’s Way” seminar to 100 people in Kampala Oct. 30-Nov. 1.

One Bible verse that seemed to cause considerable conviction among the pastors and business people gathered was James 5:4, “Look! The wages you failed to pay the workmen who mowed your fields are crying out against you. The cries of the harvesters have reached the ears of the Lord Almighty.”

At least two people acknowledged their sin in this area to the entire group and said they would begin paying their workers on time. It is common in Uganda that employers do not pay their workers in a timely fashion.

Also, many for the first time understood and embraced Matthew 5:37, “Simply let your ‘Yes’ be ‘Yes” and your ‘No,’ No’; anything beyond this comes from the evil one.” In Uganda, it is considered impolite to say “no,” resulting in many misunderstandings and much confusion. This is particularly damaging in the business world because people make commitments they know they cannot keep because they do not want to say “no.”

The training was conducted in cooperation with the Uganda Fellowship of Born Again and Pentecostal Churches, which represents more than 10,000 congregations.

While God’s Word did touch many hearts, Mark had a strong sense that the Holy Spirit was being restrained. Only after the training was completed did he realize what was holding things back: Sin in the camp. (See posting below, “A Tragic Casualty.”) Mark then realized he had experienced a similar situation as Joshua did in the Bible when Achan defied God and took plunder from Jericho after God tore down its walls and allowed the Israelites to conquer it. Because of this unconfessed sin in the camp, the Israelites were routed in their next battle. (Joshua, Chapters 7 and 8).

Charles, Mark’s ministry assistant who misdirected ministry funds for personal use, attended the training and participated in it before Mark knew of his deeds. Mark believes it was Charles’ sin and concealment that led to the sense of the Holy Spirit being restrained in the training.

Mark takes comfort in Isaiah 55:10-11, “As the rain and snow come down from heaven, and do not return to it without watering the earth and making it bud and flourish, so that it yields seed for the sower and bread for the eater, so is my word that goes out from my mouth: It will not return to me empty.”

A Tragic Casualty

2006-11-06T02:17:00.000-06:00

“News From the Frontlines” is not always good. There are casualties. We have some very bad news to report. Our good Ugandan friend Charles Wandera, who has served as our ministry assistant and employee, stumbled badly in his walk with the Lord and was relieved of his duties with us.

As our employee, we sent Charles about $350 to pay annual automobile registration fees on our Ugandan vehicle before our arrival in Uganda Oct. 30. Charles diverted the funds to his personal use without authorization and lied to us to cover up his actions. He also falsely accused others in an attempt to conceal his sin.

Once his misdeeds became obvious to us, we confronted him and he has apologized and says he has repented to the Lord. We have forgiven him. Charles claims Mark as his spiritual father. Mark told Charles he will continue to be a spiritual father to him. Mark also told Charles he loves him and will remain his friend.

As Mark’s assistant in the “Doing Business God’s Way” ministry, Charles had been responsible for holding men accountable to be faithful, trustworthy and truthful. When Charles failed so grievously in these areas himself, he removed himself from our employment. Though painful, there are lasting consequences to actions even though we are forgiven.

Please pray for Charles and his family. It is a very difficult time for them. Also please pray for us that God may use us to help restore Charles while taking courage and learning from this experience.

Hitting the Ground Running!

2006-11-06T02:10:00.000-06:00

October 30th we arrived safely in Uganda. After checking into the guest house we drove to the office of Engineering Ministries International to meet with Chad Gamble the East Africa director along with Johnson Bakashaba from Kabale. The purpose of the meeting was to get Chad’s advice about the many construction projects in Johnson’s vision for the ministry to the children in Kabale.

After covering the basic EMI requirements the steps in the process were clearly defined. Phase one has been identified as the hub of the ministry which involves the simple church facility for 500 members and office. (Currently the church is meeting in a tent and has no offices.) Chad made several suggestions for how the foundation of the church can be built for further expansion to include a covered area for worship and later a facility to include over the next few years a child sponsorship office, a kitchen, classrooms, Internet café, medical dispensary/clinic, guest house, a restaurant and resource center for village pastors. During this trip a needs evaluation is taking place with prayer concerning the possible locations for the ministry components. The concept for the ministry focuses on sustainability of the ministry with an exit component as the ministry becomes self-sufficient as commercial income generating aspects to provide jobs for children and members of the congregation are implemented.

Simultaneously, a home will be rented to house up to 15 children with house parents the first quarter of 2007. Future developments include the purchase of additional land in Kabale for the construction of three homes for children. In addition the long-range vision is to serve the abandoned children not only in the city but also around Lake Bunyonyi just outside Kabale. More exciting news to come as we plan step by step as God opens more doors.

Houses of Hope Store Opens in Texas

2006-10-26T15:35:00.000-05:00

Houses of Hope Shop opened its doors in Belton, Texas on September 2, 2006. The shop’s purpose is to raise money for the orphanages around the world by selling items from these various countries. At this time, the shop holds items from, Africa, and Asia. The profits from the sales will go back to the orphanage from where the products originate. Volunteers and local business people provide the support for the store. Items may be shipped for delivery all over the U.S. We will be posting some pictures of the items for sale from Africa. Watch for more details.

Note: Houses of Hope is the sister organization of People for Missions which is the fundraising and support arm for the orphanages and child sponsorship..

Update...More Awana Clubs Starting!

2006-10-26T15:24:00.000-05:00

God loves little children! On this trip the Noblins are assisting Rukungiri Community Church in Rukungiri to start an AWANA club for 90 children. The club is expected to be a huge blessing to the community which is 2 hours from Kabale in Western Uganda. On the last trip an AWANA club was started for 110 children and it continues to grow. Pastor Elisha and his wife Rebecca know the importance of discipling the children and have been praying for the opportunity and support to start the club.

At the same time God has been at work in Kisumu, Kenya where another AWANA club will begin shortly. Just in the last week funds were received to begin a club there. The details are being worked out for training the volunteers with AWANA International Kenyan missionary Rev. Charles Ndertu.

As the clubs begin, changes are taking place in the communities that not only impact the children but whole families and churches! Stay tuned for more pictures of the kickoffs!

Making a Difference In Two Lives

2006-10-26T15:10:00.000-05:00

Being able to attend college in Uganda is huge! Many of you are helping to send Ben Kisiki and his sister Doreen Namutamba to Uganda Christian University. Ben began law school this semester and Doreen began a degree in project management. Both are doing well and excited to be moving toward having careers in the future.

God is doing many things as Ben is faithful. He has been designated as class representative of the law fellowship, gotten involved with prision ministry sharing the Gospel to inmates and has been asked to preach to the law fellowship. Doreen has had malaria but is doing better and enjoying her classes. Both of them need your prayers and support. If you are interested in finding out more about them please contact Margaret at margaret_noblin@msn.com.

It will be fun seeing both of them when we return in October to Uganda. There are always great stories to share and they are a real blessing.

Wakiso Church Building In Process

2006-09-21T18:39:00.000-05:00

Samson at the construction site viewing the retaining wall.

Many times we don't have any idea what God has in mind. We sit next to people on airplanes and sometimes don't even want to talk...we would rather sleep. However, God sometimes has other things in mind. That is what happened with the conversation between Margaret and Samson. Both wanted to sleep from London to Entebbe but God had other plans and continues to open more doors. Samson's brother is a pastor for Central Baptist Church Wakiso, Uganda and has begun a building program to move the church facility from under dangerous power lines to another location. They have secured the land and needed help with plans and construction. Margaret recently sent an e-mail to people she thought might be interested in a construction trip only to find out that God had other plans and timing! The next day a friend said count us in to help for $1,000.

Samson, Pastor Fred and Margaret presenting the donation.

So on our recent trip Samson and Margaret delivered the funds, shared their airplane story with the congregation and before departing to return to the U.S. a retaining wall had been built and construction was on its way.

Many other doors are opening since the church has taken over a nearby school. We are excited to see how God may be providing a place for orphans to attend school, another house for orphans on the church grounds, and also serve the orphans at Rafiki the Bible Study Fellowship village for orphans nearby. Susan the pastor's wife is active in BSF and teaches a Sunday School class for some of the children from Rafiki. Imagine that, especially since Margaret attends BSF both in Dallas while in the U.S. and Kampala when she is in Uganda!

Returning to Uganda & Kenya October 28

2006-09-18T22:37:00.000-05:00

Many things are happening and we are ready to return to begin AWANA in Rukunjiri Uganda, meet with Engineering Ministeries International regarding site plans for more homes for orphans, a church and possible renovation of an existing school. We continue to pray that God will bring some people to join us on this trip. In Uganda Mark will be teaching a group of men the class "Doing Business God's Way" then travel to Kenya to continue working with the "Iron Men" in Kisusmu who are completing their business plans.

Several groups of people are developing to support the different aspects of the ministry. Some business ladies representing the board of Houses of Hope will be visiting after we leave in November to research construction needs for more homes for the children, possibly assistance to orphans in Northern Uganda and a major project with a church in Wakiso. Also we have connected them to Debbie Farah at Bajalia Trading Company to explore more opportunities in the crafts ministry for women and children in Africa, India and Guatemala.

Some other friends are supporting the pastors with laptops they are collecting to send back to Uganda and Kenya on the next trip. In Belton Texas, God is connecting us with more nurses who are interested in helping the children and we are scheduled to meet them the end of September before we leave on the next trip. Two of them are nurses and one has a husband in the construction industry interested in the clinic to be built in June 2006. There is a short term trip to Uganda scheduled for June 9-23, 2007. $3,100 per person inclusive of all fees except passport, visas and immunizations. More details to follow on the trip with pictures of the clinic building site and staff.

Masai Warrior and Jesus

2006-08-28T17:27:00.000-05:00

In August we learned that we would be able to visit the Masai Mara in Kenya. Charles would come over from Uganda, join us to drive the back roads to the campsite, and camp for two days and nights, see the animals and learn more about the Masai. Little did we know of God's plan for the visit.

Upon our arrival we were introduced to Richard, a 20 year old Masai warrior, (pictured above) who knew where to find all the animals in the Masai Mara. Late afternoon we departed in "Rhino" our '92 Mitsubushi Pajero to see some animals. With Charles at the wheel and Richard navigating we began the drive. Richard tried to set appropriate expectations saying it was rare to see lions the first day out." So Margaret responded with a prayer. "Lord we are here to enjoy your creation, if it is your will for us to see some lions we would love it."

As we drove we saw herds of zebras, gazelles, and giraffes and amazingly enough a pride of lions eating a recently killed wildebeast. Richard was so excited and said "this is really lucky to see the lions...this rarely happens." But Margaret replied that God hears our prayers.

While we drove around Margaret talked to Richard about the Masai religion and what they believed and many questions about the culture. As they talked about worshipping ravens and drinking cow blood mixed with milk she interjected comments about what we believe as Christians. At one point she excitedly said, "Imagine what fun Adam had naming all these magnificent animals." We talked about Genesis and the garden, polyamy and God's plan for marriage, why Jesus came to earth and God's restoration plan for eternal life. Since Richard spoke some English but mostly Swahili, Charles answered questions and translated what Margaret said in "Texas English." Richard was very curious and was particularly drawn to the praise and worship music Charles loved to play as we drove around. Frequently Richard increased the volume and sang along with the songs. God was at work on Richard's heart.

The next day we took a drive early in the morning and saw ostrich, cheetahs, a fox, gazelles and hippos. Our discussions continued with Richard as he explained he was required to read the Bible in school and knew many of the stories. Somehow we got on the subject of the Holy Spirit and that no one can force us to believe in God or Jesus but that it is a choice to accept the gift of what Jesus did on the cross for us. He was very curious and continued to discuss things with Charles in Swahili.

Before lunch Richard said he would like us to visit his village and meet some Masai women who were believers. At the village, the warriors did some traditional dances and explained the origin of the dances. For instance the "jumping dance" started as a result of warriors jumping to look over the thicket for lions. This was interesting because only three weeks earlier a lion had attacked the cattle.

As Richard showed us his village he stopped to introduce us to his 110 year old grandmother and some of the Christian women. Margaret shared with them being "daughters of the king" as an encouragement and we visited a typical cow dung house, saw how they make fire with friction from dowel sticks and learned about how they protect the cattle from lions. The Masai put their cattle in the center of the village at night for protection from the wild animals. Richard said when the lion jumped the thicket the warriors surrounded it and killed it to protect the cattle. He explained this is the only time the Masai can kill a lion since they are defending their cattle.

There are many misconceptions about the Masai being violent people because of the fact that they are fierce warriors in protecting their cattle. They are quiet people with great courage and this is often misunderstood. Charles even admitted that as a Ugandan he has wrong impressions of them. Getting to know Richard revealed many things about the culture and allowed us to gain a more accurate understanding of these facinating people.

We returned to camp for lunch then took an afternoon ride. God continued to answer our prayers as we saw hippos, croccodiles, a herd of giraffe, elephants with their little ones and more zebras. Before we left we had seen some incredibly beautiful animals and sunsets. God's design is trully magnificent as you observe the animals and beautiful landscape.

Our final night Richard joined us for dinner at the camp. He shared with us his plan to return to school, build a modern house and be the first from his village to start a different life. It was obvious he wanted to attend university and asked our advice about what direction he should take in his future plans. We discussed many options and Charles continued the discussions in Swahili. Then Mark asked Richard if he had made a decision about whether he believed in Jesus. Richard replied, " I made the decision today that I believe. He said we were the first mzungu (white people) who ever talked to him about God." All of us were excited and welcomed him into the family. Charles said we needed to exchange e-mail addresses and Margaret committed to mail him a life application Bible. He had seen hers in the car and really liked it.

So we realized God had a plan for us in the Mara and it was more than seeing the animals. Richard became a believer and a brother in Christ! Being alert to what God is doing around us is part of the spiritual adventure. You never know who God is going to put in your path who needs Jesus!

Hope for the Heart Biblical Counseling Keys Impacting Kenya and Uganda

2006-08-28T12:24:00.000-05:00

Perez and Heledah at Deliverance Church, Kisumu, Kenya

In August Margaret started a Hope for the Heart Biblical Counseling Ministry at Deliverance Church in Kisumu, Kenya with a group of four ladies and one man. She did a training program to share the foundational information on how to use the keys along with practical things you should consider during counseling sessions. One of the Kenyan ladies Ann has been on staff with Campus Crusade for years so she was very excited about using the keys. Also Perez and Heledah from Deliverance Church, Kisumu Kenya, expressed the need for the information in ministering to the orphans and widows. The church has a partnership with Compassion International called the Dorcas Ministry where they minister specifically to the needs of widows, single moms and orphans. Miriam another participant in the training has a counseling degree and a passion for working with young adults and couples.

God continues to open doors and bless the faithful with these amazing counseling keys. When the pastors and staff begin using the keys and understand the needs God has put in our hearts, they are so excited and see results from using God's word in this way.

We have witnessed great healing changes in the lives of people in Busia, Uganda since Beth McKee trained Grace Church leaders in the use of the keys. Margaret returned in August to do a refresher course and heard stories of marriages being restored, ministry conflicts being resolved, and people gaining a greater understanding of the needs God puts in our hearts and how we respond. As we seek understanding and reach out in love God shows his restoration power and things change. Many thanks to Hope for the Heart for generously supporting us by donating the keys to minister in Africa.

Iron Men Marching On

2006-08-13T10:22:00.000-05:00

The 12 men who completed the course "Doing Business God's Way" taught by Mark receive certificates of completion Sunday Aug. 13 during services at Deliverance Church in Kisumu.

"Iron Man" Daniel Mwangi (left) in the store he owns, along with two kiosks. Daniel wants to diversify his business to operate a 14-passenger vehicle to the Kenya/Uganda border.

"Iron Man" Paul Okech (right, orange shirt) watches his 10-man crew load 10 tons of sugar cane. Paul cannot meet demand for his sugar cane transport business and wants another tractor.

Kabale,Lake Bunyoni, Bashara Island

2006-08-04T06:32:00.000-05:00

Team exploring Bashara Island ministries and new conference center.

Ideas for future ministries to support the orphans in the area.

Margaret and Pastor Johnson discussing future ministry plans.

Canoe dock at Lake Bunyoni.

Team breakfast on the porch!

Cottages by Lake Bunyoni great place to rest after full days of ministry.

Back Home, New Beginnings from Linz

2006-08-04T06:09:00.000-05:00

Linz, Yvonne and Charles at the Equator! Not as hot as Dallas or London.

So I've been home for almost a week but have been flying with hardly a minute to sit down! With the help of some WONDERFUL friends and family members, I completely moved into my apartment on Sunday, started unpacking Monday, painted all day Tuesday, went food/necessity shopping Wednesday, went teacher shopping today, and still have to finish unpacking! But I'm loving it! Having my ownplace is great so far :)

But, back to Africa, I must finish the tale!... Sooooooo, that night we had dinner with many of our friends at a favorite Italian restaurant (yes, I wasn't there long, but already had favorite restaurants!). It was a great time of laughter and interesting conversation (roles of men and women in relationships, serious stuff, but always fun!).

We went home and packed everything up, woke up and left the house by 6 to go to the airport. Once in the airport, we mosied (sp?) on over to the gate and hung out there til our flight left. Lucky for us, we got bumped up to World Traveller Plus, which is like middle class on BA. As I've said, BA is nice to begin with, and this middle class was GREAT! Lots of leg room, bigger seats, more mobility, good stuff! That made the trip to London quite enjoyable. We landed in London, got a taxi and headed to our Bed and Breakfast in Harmondsworth Village. :) It was such a cute little area. We walked around and talked with some of the locals, ate at a nearby pub (burger for me, fish and chips for Yvonne) and came back to our HOT room. I don't know if you heard, but there was a heat streak in London, and of course they don't have AC over there. There was no breeze and our fan was very weak. Oddly enough, it was the hottest we'd been on the trip! Who'd of thought London would be hotter than the equator!haha :) Plus, the sun stays up forever in London. It rises by 6 and doesn't go down til at least 10! I couldn't wait for the sun, I went to sleep around 9:30 that night. :)

Next morning we woke up, had some breakfast, took a taxi back to the airport, got some Starbucks, and headed to our gate. Not without any trouble though. After flying all the way to Uganda and back, Heathrow was telling me my carry on was too big...... sure it was. So I had to check my bag, praying all of my souviers wouldn't be broken. Praise the Lord, only one little chip occured, which my dad fixed when I got back :) thanks daddy! We then boarded our plane and were AGAIN bumped up to Word Traveller Plus! The Lord is good! :) We breezed through customs in O'Hare and our bags were all there :) We walked around and chilled in the food court until our plane left. It was slightly delayed, but no big deal. :) Finally we arrived back home! We waited for our bags (only to discover one was sitting on the floor behind us the whole time! haha) then headed home. It was such an amazing trip, I've uploaded my pictures onto Webshots so you can get a glimpse of our adventures! http://community.webshots.com/user/pinzy06-date

Thank you so much for your support financially, in prayer and in emails! I've loved communicating with you the whole way through! At this point, I would love to go back and focus on just one of the places we travelled on this trip. I would love to deepen some of the relationships I started and invest in some of the ministries. I'll let you know if anything comes up! :) God bless for He blesses richly!!Linz :)

Kabale Awana Pictures

2006-08-04T05:01:00.000-05:00

Yvonne and Master the Awana game time coordinator

explain the Gospel with the Evangecube.

Yvonne, Pastor Johnson and David Echau

Children's Leaders with Yvonne after training.

Awana game time becoming a family fellowship event!

A Shoebox, A Willing Heart and Boys Needing Jesus in Uganda

2006-08-04T04:51:00.000-05:00

Yvonne Meets the boys after many months of e-mails!

You never know where a note at the bottom

of your Christmas shoebox will lead to later!

The Boys Brigade in Kampala entertained us with stunts when we visited them.

Gifts of the Word and More...

2006-08-04T04:41:00.000-05:00

Ministering to orphans at Mt. Carmel Boarding School with gifts was a wonderful blessing. Children from Gaba with Mama Margaret were so excited to receive your donations of soap, deodorant, flashlights, mosquito nets, clothes and more… Thanks from the children!

Scripture Verses in the Classrooms at Maranatha School in Gaba were painted by Lindsay and Yvonne during the time they were in Uganda. Praise God for the lasting impact they will have on the children.

Muyenga Barber Shop Ministry

2006-08-04T04:34:00.000-05:00

A customer, Moses,” the barber man” and Ben

While in Muyenga before departing for Kisumu, Ben asked me to visit his friend Moses “the barber man” as he calls him. About a year ago Ben shared the Gospel with Moses while he was getting a haircut. Every time Ben showed up for a haircut there were spiritual discussions. Many men hung out at the shop and there was always a radio playing with the latest secular music. Then one day Moses called Ben and said I need your help, can you please come. It seems someone had agreed to rent his radio then took it without paying and ruined it. This was an important piece of equipment for the shop since it brought customers to him. Ben prayed for him and Moses thanked him. Later the prayer was answered. Moses was beginning to see God at work and the peace he could have if he seriously followed Jesus. It was hard for Moses to turn from his friends that hung out at the bars and wanted him to participate in ungodly behavior. They were always encouraging him to go with them and kept asking, “why don’t you like to hang out with us anymore?”

Ben continued to visit and talk and gave him his Life Application Bible. As Moses read the Word, prayed and discussed with Ben different basic topics, he understood and could see the different path his life could take if he was completely sold out to Jesus. (Thanks for the Life Application Bibles they continue to be prized possessions in Uganda!)

So when I arrived Ben asked me if we could visit and discuss some of Moses questions. This was a fun experience for me since I’ve never had the opportunity to answer questions about the Bible while people are coming and going in a barber shop. There were both ladies and gentlemen arriving and we talked about relationship between men and women, submission, encouragement, deception…whatever they wanted to talk about and I was amazed at the picture of how we are to “make disciples of all nations” as we go along wherever we are…even in a barber shop!

Farewell Celebration, Village Ministry, Nine Wives and an 89 yr. Old Polygamist

2006-08-04T04:12:00.000-05:00

Lindsay, Ben, Charles, Lillian, Yvonne, Lataaya, and Moses

Our last night with the team was a celebration at Café Roma our favorite restaurant in Kampala. The following morning they departed for London. We had a very productive trip and saw many exciting new opportunities for future ministry work.

Charles, Ben and I arrived in Kisumu without any difficulties Monday July 24th. It was a fun trip and “Rhino” our old car behaved itself and even got extra good gas mileage. Praise the Lord! On our way we stopped in Jinja to visit Ben’s sister Doreen who has had some difficulties with an auntie who is a sorcerer and heavy into witchcraft. Doreen is a strong believer and is learning to stand firm while the auntie continually puts weird things outside her door, makes discouraging comments and constantly says she is going to “witch” her. I’ve never seen such things out in the open. We prayed and encouraged Doreen and Ben hopes to be able to move her to Kampala soon to get her away from the mean aunties.

Ben, Margaret, Doreen, and Charles in Jinja

On Tuesday after taking Ben and Charles to the taxi to return to Uganda, I headed out to the village with Perez to teach the women. It was a short drive out there and the driving is much easier than in Kampala. I adjusted very easily to the taxi drivers, bicyclers and boda bodas. At the village we were met by a young pastor, Pastor Peter and a group of ladies. Since many in the congregation are not literate I had to adjust some of the things I planned but things went well. Even though the meeting was for women the pastor stayed and Perez’s father in law an 89 yr. old polygamist stayed to listen. I think he was curious about what I was teaching the women! Most of the people in the village have a mixture of Catholicism and traditional cultural belief systems. The new church plant from Deliverance Church is growing and people are getting discipled. The topics covered in the training included our identity in Christ, salvation, grace, the Word of God being trustworthy and inerrant, our testimonies as a witness of Jesus in our lives and spiritual warfare especially in communication. During the week we had some wonderful discussions about spiritual warfare…how to recognize it and defend ourselves in the name of Jesus. It was encouraging when the pastor told us he was noticing some changes in perspectives.

Mzee pictured in the center.

Even the Mzee (the 89 yr. old polygamist) said he was beginning to understand things in the Bible and that it helped to have cultural examples. At one point he came up to me and said, “You know I have Jesus in my heart but I am a polygamist like David and Solomon.” My response was, “as a born-again believer what do you think about this now. I said I hoped Mark and I could discuss this some more with him.” The next day I felt the Lord strongly wanted me to teach about relationships. Since the young Pastor Peter is getting married in a few weeks it was the perfect opportunity to discuss Biblical marriage. I have to admit it took courage to discuss God’s plan and how David and Solomon didn’t follow the plan and had much chaos and difficulty as a result of many unbelieving wives. At the end I think they understood that God wants us to be happy and unified in our relationships and all these marriages to many wives causes much confusion, envy, resentment, and anger. Most of all unbelieving wives turn the husbands away from God. Mzee (title of respect for wise one) listened and at the end I asked him if he had been offended by anything I said. “I told him I wanted to be respectful but at the same time speak the word of God in love.” He said he was glad to know these things and wanted me to return to teach more. God truly blessed me with the new friendship with this old man. As we talked he asked what Mark and I were doing in Uganda and I told him part of what we do is build homes for orphans. His reply was, “I will donate some of my land for a home for orphans it you want to build one here.” Praise God another open door. Step by step we just keep moving along and who knows maybe in a year or so this village will be transformed and the Mzee will join us in opening another home for orphans. Showing up is a great adventure and I thank all of you for your participation. All of these things would not be possible without your prayers and support.

"Iron Men" of Kisumu Kingdom Builders

2006-07-29T09:17:00.000-05:00

The “Iron Men” (Proverbs 27:17) of Kingdom Builders in Kisumu Kenya who completed the course “Doing Business God’s Way” that Mark taught.

Challenged by Scripture, problem-solving activities and team-building exercises, their spiritual growth and skills in solving practical business issues exceeded expectations. All of them are leaders now equipped to be disciples in the marketplace. Four of the men will share what they learned to their congregation, Deliverance Church, when Mark preaches Sunday.

Kabale Pictures at Lake Bunyoni

2006-07-28T04:15:00.000-05:00

Yvonne sharing a story and the Gospel with

children in the dance group. Over 40 children came

forward to have Jesus as Lord of their lives. This was another

miracle we experienced unexpectedly on the trip!

Women's Ministry discussion about the importance

of encouraging our husbands.

Children dancing for us by the lake then hearing the Gospel.

Margaret learning the local dance!

Linz Dancing with the ladies from the church.

Linz canoeing on Lake Bunyoni to Bashara Island.

Leaps and Bounds in Kisumu (Mark)

2006-07-26T10:49:00.000-05:00

Wow! It has been an amazing week so far with the 12 men chosen for the business discipleship group from Deliverance Church in Kisumu Kenya.

God has blessed the teaching of the Doing Business God’s Way course and I can see the men growing in leaps and bounds as the Word of God is piercing their hearts. These are not immature believers – in fact I would say their spiritual maturity and Bible knowledge is above most men’s groups in which I have participated in the US. In several areas, they have given me new Biblical insights for future teaching.

God is using me to push them to new levels, to search their hearts and to challenge them to be and seek the best God has for them.

I am thrilled that they LOVE the team building activities we are doing, which are modeling how to put what they are learning into practice. They also are relishing some pretty tough riddles I have given them to solve over lunch to sharpen their brains and problem solving skills. They have really solidified into a solid spiritual band of brothers.

We have not been without our challenges, specifically in the area of keeping time, which I have strongly impressed is a reflection of discipline, accountability and respect. They have gotten the point and are holding one another accountable to let their “yes be yes and no be no.”

Thank you for your prayers. I am a witness that they are being effective!

Please Pray for Holy Spirit to Lead Teaching

2006-07-21T08:34:00.000-05:00

Below is my (Mark's) training schedule for next Monday through Friday for the men chosen from Deliverance Church in Kisumu Kenya for the Doing Business God's Way course. Please lift it up in prayer that God would speak through me and I would be sensitive to follow the Holy Spirit wherever He wants to take us.

I have no idea how the team building exercises will work out in Africa, but pray they can help bind these men together and make them team-oriented creative problem solvers accountable to one another after the Lord.

Also, I would appreciate your prayers as I will be preaching to both services of the church Sunday on righteousness.

Training Schedule
Kenya Kingdom Builders Development Group
July 24-28

8:00-8:30 Prayer and Journal Sharing (Day 1: Expectations)

8:30-10:00 Bible Study
Day 1 – Examining Your Heart; Righteousness; Spiritual Warfare
Day 2 – James
Day 3 – James
Day 4 – Nehemiah
Day 5 – Nehemiah

10:00-10:15 Break

10:15-11:45 Doing Business God’s Way: Attributes of a Disciple
Day 1 – Matthew 7:24, Mission Statement
Day 2 – Truthful, Faithful, Trustworthy, Open, Accountable
Day 3 – Teachable, Just, Hardworking, Diligent, Stewardship
Day 4 – Providers, Church Involvement, Generous, Love
Day 5 – Business by the Book Overview

11:45-1:00 Lunch (Riddlemania – Problem Solving -- Riddles to Be Solved Over Lunch)

1:00-2:30 Student Business Plan Presentations and Group Brainstorming
Day 1 – Antoney and George
Day 2 – Charles and Gordon
Day 3 – Paul and Wilson
Day 4 – Norman and Eric
Day 5 – Daniel M., Charles and Daniel O.

2:30-2:45 Break

2:45-4:30 Team Building and Problem Solving
Day 1 – Lava Pit; All Aboard
Day 2 – Cord of Three Strands; Flag Attack
Day 3 – Helium Stick; Egg Drop
Day 4 – Willow in the Wind; Create Your Own Activity
Day 5 – Perform Activities Created Previous Day

4:30-5:30 Case Studies and Review

Daily Homework: Bible reading and journaling what God is teaching each day.

Final Exam: Take home essay exam due by noon 4-August-2006. Pass/fail after personal review and interview with instructor.

Rukunjiri, Kabale and Spiderwoman!

2006-07-20T07:10:00.000-05:00

So here we are, day before I leave. Whew, what a trip. Well, we left off talking about going to our cottage on the lake. We did. It was cottagey and lakey. :) The view was awesome - Lake Bunyonyi is the deepest lake in Africa, and it was very clean too! There were only about 4 cottages in the whole compound, so we had great service and it was very peaceful. That night we went home and slept so well.

The next morning we woke and drove back to Rukungiri to do some leaders training for those in the church there. Margaret talked with the main leaders and Yvonne and I talked with the children's leaders. It was well recieved and hopefully helpful to them. We talked about how children learn differently, how to teach a bible story with just the Bible, and how to use the natural resources for reinforcement activites. After recieving a huge basket of avocados (yum!) from that church, we drove the two hours back to Kabale to do the same training with the church there.

We had them come out to the lake where we were staying and met with them outside on this huge deck. Many of them, even though they lived so close, had never seen the lake before! We were glad we could treat them to that. At the end of that meeting, the women danced their traditional dance for us, and we joined in, and I even got some video :) Good Stuff. We then went to eat and come home to some fun critters - 5 huge brown recluse spiders! So spiderwoman (also known as Yvonne) took my shoe and went at it; I got one, but she conquered the rest :) Getting to sleep was a little harder that night, but as exhuasted as we were, we did just fine.

The next morning, Tuesday, we slept in and had Pastor Johnson and his wife Margaret (from the Kabale church) come back out and go for a canoe ride with us. We rode to Bushara, an island in the community that had a great ministry happening – they helped many of the orphans in the surrounding area by providing work and purpose to their lives, while also giving them schooling and a solid Christian base. We ate at a restaurant there and saw many of the crafts. All of the profits from that ministry went back to the community to help the orphans. It was really great.

We canoed back to our cottage and were greeted by the Bufuka Orphan group. This was made up of orphans on the surrounding islands who came together to dance and sing, hoping for donations, rather than just begging for money. They were great! (got video of that too). After they danced, Yvonne read a simple story to them and explained the wordless book to the group. Then Pastor Johnson invited them to accept Christ after explaining that this was a serious decision. They all chose to accept Christ! Now, as children, we realize they might have not been sincere, but if just one of them was, it was worth it! Seeds were planted! :) What an unexpected opportunity!

After all of this, we slept and woke up the next morning bright and early to drive to Mbarara where we meet Matt and Crystal (yes, used to be Crystal Marsh) and had a wonderful lunch with them. If you think of it, please pray that they would have opportunities to learn the language and the culture, have a break from the non-stop teams coming in, and some quality time with each other. It was so great to see them :)

From there, we drove on to Kampala and went to stay in Margaret's old house when she lived here for a year. I know she felt at home, which was a huge blessing to her :) We got to meet Ben, the guy that lived with them and cooked with them and is like their son. He's a great guy with a great heart and has been great company. :) We stayed up and folded laundry, cleaned the kitchen and made waffles to help lighten his load, as he has been overwhelmingly busy these last few days.

This morning, we woke up, and had a lovely breakfast, and headed to house of hope,where Pastor Milton is ministering to over 10 orphans. Margaret spoke to the house parents about good biblical parenting that is different than their culture's standards. From there, we took Yvonne to see our brigade boys again and Margaret and I are shopping for gifts :) yay!

Tonight we will have one last dinner with many of our friends to say goodbye. Our flight leaves around 9 tomorrow morning, and I will be home saturday night! I can't wait to talk with many of you about this trip. It has been amazing! I never thought I would love Uganda so much, but it has sparked so many exciting thoughts and ideas for the future. More on that later :) I might have a chance to email once more in the London airport. Otherwise, I'll see you in America! Thanks so much for your emails! I LOVE them!!!linz :) ps for those of you wondering, the hottest place we have been has only been around 85, and it has gotten VERY cold at night in the mountains. SO much better than texas heat :) what a blessing!! :)

Brigade Boys and Mbarara

2006-07-20T07:06:00.000-05:00

So I have realized that these detailed emails take too long and our schedule is too busy, so I will have to write those when i get back to the states. (i'mkeeping you on edge with that thing about the Irish, huh? yeah, i didn't thinkso) but, to update you all breifly, the time with the boys at the brigade was great.they were very entertaining, dangerously so, doing stunts and acts for us. :) we ate with a few of mark and margarets friends and a wonderful chinese restaruant,yum! the next day we woke and departed for Mbarara, where my friend, crystal,has been living with her husband as a full time missionaries for the last 6months. i was so excited to see her! we stopped at the equator and took pictures- i was on both sides at once :) it was so amazing to see crystal and it was awonderful day of relaxation. we visited and saw the home that she worked withand met all of the kids. they sang and danced for us, it was amazing! i stayedthe night with her at her home and we caught up, it was so fun! oh yeah, andthere was a mouse in the house. good times :) the next morning, it was hard toleave, but i will just have to come back to uganda and i will see her then. :)we drove to Kabale and met for lunch with some of the leaders of the churches wewould be visiting. we then drove to Rukungiri and met with some of the leadersthere and encouraged them and prepared them for a future AWANA club. they werevery excited! we stayed there the night and went to church in Rukungiri thatmorning. it was very cool and exciting. we then drove back to kabale and went tochurch there as well (these towns are 2 hours apart. lots of driving). we thenate and got ready for launching the AWANA club at the Kabale church. it wasamazing! the leaders and students were very excited and serious about doing thiswell. there were so many kids, about half of them couldn't join without moremoney. but God provided and the members of the church offered enough money forthose children and a few more right then and there! it was awesome! we thenwalked through the steps of a typical AWANA session. it was great! i played withthe other kids that couldn't be in it yet - language is no barrier for fun! i amnow exhausted and very dirty and we are heading to our cottage on the lake. itshould be much nicer than we deserve and very relaxing.ok, that's all for now! hope to talk to you more soon! i LOVE getting youremails! thanks for writing! linz :)

Greetings from Uganda from Linz!

2006-07-20T07:01:00.000-05:00

Greetings from Uganda! (Linz;)
It has been quite a busy week so far, which you can tell by how long it took me to get to a computer! :) So much to say, but I'll give you the short version first.

Our travel was full of opportunities for flexibility. We arrived safely, but with many delays and some difficulties. Sleep was rare, but conversation was good. We started things right away at one of the schools near our house. I did quite a bit of scripture painting in the classrooms with Yvonne while Margaret connected with various people at the church, finalizing details. We traveled across Lake Victoria to another village and painted scripture in one of the orphan homes there.

We visted a boarding school about 2 hours from our house and gave them 3 huge duffle bags full of necessities that were donated to us (THANK YOU!!). We are about to go meet with some boys Yvonne has met through Operation Christmas Shoebox and they are a band and will play for us.

Overall, it has been very exciting and tiring. I LOVE UGANDA! The people are exceedingly welcoming and kind. They are very helpful and wonderful people. It has been nothing but
joy working with them so far!

Now, more detail, but I only have 11 minutes left of computer time, so here I go!

When we got to the airport, we were told the baggage limit was 50 lbs, not 70! Margaret had checked multiple times to confirm 70, but it had apparently changed for British Airways on July 4th! After much talk with British airways, we found out there was a grace period until October. Whew! So, the bags were sent through, and we were even able to unload some of our backpacks that were overflowing because some of the bags were just under 70. :) We then waited for our plane, and waited, and waited. It was delayed about an hour, which was fine with us, because we had a 5 hour layover in Chicago. :) Once we got to OHare, we went at ate at Chilis and meandered over to our next flight. All was going smoothly again. This 8 hour flight was very nice (BA is a wonderful air carrier) although I didn't sleep, only rested my eyes. So, coming off the
plane the next day at 11am, we were all exhausted.

We left our carryon bags at a place in the airport and took the Tube (train) into London. We
walked around Covent Garden and ate a little sandwich place there. Then we walked to a park and just chilled and I people watched for about an hour and a half! It was so refreshing. And I
now love London.

We went back to the airport and showered, yes, showered. They have showers at Heathrow and it was so nice to be clean before going on an airplane again. We then went to our gate to get on our plane and meets some Irish people going to the same place as we were! We boarded our plane (which was very hot and stuffy) and sat on that plane for 2 and half hours. No, we weren't flying, just sitting. One of the engines was not working properly, so they had to replace that along with a few other things. But we were thankful we wouldn't be falling out of the sky half way through. We ended up talking to those Irish people and found out some very interesting things! But more on that in the next email, I have to go now, time's up! :)

Thank you for your prayers, they are so important! Love you and miss you!
linz :)

God; Not Man

2006-07-20T03:42:00.000-05:00

Margaret, Yvonne and Lindsay arrived safely back in Kampala Wednesday after a successful journey to Western Uganda where they launched an AWANA Club and did leadership training. They will be ministering to children, helping train orphanage house parents and visiting The Brigade (a boys group Yvonne came to know through Samaritan’s Purse Shoebox Ministry) on Thursday before Yvonne and Lindsay depart for home on Friday.

Margaret will be joining me (Mark) in Kisumu Kenya next Monday. When we are apart for several days, I am reminded of God’s perfect plan in making husband and wife one. I feel incomplete without her.

It has been a busy week for me in Kisumu meeting people and forming relationships to lay the foundation for the discipleship/loan program in Kenya. Pastor Paul Oselu of Deliverance Church here and I have been meeting with the lawyer and bankers. We are finalizing our LLC here to administer the program. Also, we are seeking a bank partner which will give priority consideration and favorable loan rates to the men who complete our basic business training and Doing Business God’s Way course. Some of the discussions are promising. Please pray God will give us a bank partner that catches our vision and provides favorable terms for the men who successfully complete our program.

We continue to seek US donations for the loan program, but also need the flexibility of working with African banks and serving as an equipper and advocate for the men to receive traditional financing for their businesses.

One challenge I have faced this week was expected, but it has been even more intense than I anticipated. Africans assume all Americans are rich and have unlimited funds to provide if only we will. I realized I have done a poor job of managing expectations in the program so far. Even though we have emphasized to the men in our training program that they have no guaranty of getting a loan and that the loan amounts are limited, it seems many expect their participation means whatever they ask will be forthcoming.

On Wednesday this issue came to a head as the pastor and I were speaking with a banker. I told the banker some of the proposals we have seen so far from the men will not be funded. The reason is that at present we are not funding start up businesses. We want to build on existing businesses to provide a positive track record in the initial stages of the program. Some of the men who have existing businesses are asking for funds to start an entirely new business in which they have no experience.

The pastor expressed his strong concern after the bank meeting that I had said not all men he had chosen for the program would qualify for loans. I was encouraged because it is unusual for an African to address issues even when they feel strongly about something. After a heart-to-heart talk, we came to an understanding that each man who completes the training would have to show a good likelihood of making a profit in their business plan to be considered for a loan. I explained to the pastor the worst thing for a man would not be to fail to get a loan, but rather to get a loan and then fail in his business.

I also burst the bubble that we have unlimited funds to provide. I said we are entirely dependent upon God to touch the hearts of people in the US to give and to open doors at banks in Africa where we can help facilitate credit for the men. And I told him that our program is like a start up business in that it is very difficult to raise capital (donations) until we can show positive financial as well as discipleship results. I told him I was broke and running a negative cash flow personally.

When the pastor understood, he said he would call the men into regular prayer and fasting and depend on God to meet our needs. He said after the meeting with the banker, he was thinking of abandoning the program, but now sees that God is putting us all through a process to make us totally dependent on Him and give Him all the glory for what He will accomplish.

Please pray that as I begin to teach the men on Monday that they will have the same understanding as their pastor.

Wild About AWANA

2006-07-17T08:13:00.000-05:00

I (Mark), still in Kenya, spoke briefly by telephone with Margaret, who still is in Uganda starting an AWANA children's club with the team and teaching church leaders through the Book of Nehemiah.

She reported the AWANA kickoff in Kibale exceeded expectations. Prestonwood Church in Dallas had provided funding to start a club of 50 children. When David, the Uganda AWANA coordinator, offered the church members in Kabale the opportunity to sponsor additional children at a reduced cost (underwritten by AWANA International), the congregation responded by sponsoring an additional 60 children!

So the first AWANA meeting in Kibale was for 110 children. Praise God. Margaret also said David commented that the leadership in Kabale is the strongest he has worked with in launching a new AWANA club.

From Kisumu to Kabale God Is With Us

2006-07-16T08:00:00.000-05:00

I (Mark) arrived in Kisumu Kenya from Kampala Uganda yesterday (Saturday) after a six-hour bus ride. Pastor Paul Oselu met me at the station and took me to Deliverance Church, where the 10 men in the discipleship program for businessmen were concluding a 32-hour basic business accounting course which also taught them how to draft their first business plans.

The men were eager to take their final exam to qualify for the Doing Business God's Way course I will begin teaching Monday July 24. All of the men have devoted that entire week from 8 a.m. - 5:30 pm Monday-Friday for the course. Please pray the Lord will speak through me.

Today (Sunday) Pastor Paul invited me to preach at both services. I spoke on mercy, grace, forgiveness and faith. Tomorrow I will meet with a lawyer helping us establish a loan fund in Kenya. I also will be meeting during the coming week with the men in the program individually, as well as shopping for a banking partner and interviewing prospective board members for our new organization.

Margaret has been away from internet access in western Uganda but reports by cell phone and text message to me that things are going great in setting up an AWANA children's club in Kabale. She will join me July 24 in Kisumu. Please pray for protection and favor for her, team members Yvonne and Lindsay, and our trusted Ugandan friend Charles who is driving them and assisting in the ministry.

Boda Bodas in the Bush Across Lake Victoria

2006-07-14T04:33:00.001-05:00

Wednesday was great fun using public transportation by boat to Bulee, then on to Bethany Village by boda boda (motor scooter) to visit the homes for orphans at Bethany Village. As we buzzed through the bush on a narrow dirt path we passed mud block schools, thatched roof homes and caught a great view of the lake at the top of a hill.

When we arrived at Bethany most of the children were at school so we went to work painting scripture on the wall in Granny’s house, the home built last June by the People for Missions team. Edith the house mom was thrilled to receive the children’s clothes that many of you donated. Jonathan, the dad of the house picked the scripture and Lindsay and Yvonne quickly went to work while Margaret met with Willie the manager of the village project about the clinic, and determined more projects for the upcoming teams. By next summer they will be ready to build the clinic. The gardens are doing well and the children are learning more and more about farming.

After the visit to Bethany we hopped on our scooters, rode back through the villages and crawled into the wooden boat for our trip back to Gaba. Upon our arrival we regrouped, changed, loaded the items for the orphans at Mt. Carmel Boarding School and headed out with Charles to visit the children. Due to construction and “jams” as they call bad traffic in Uganda, we arrived two hours later. The children were happy to see us and we had such fun passing out the items they requested. How amazing it was to see children excited about deodorant, pencils, paper, mosquito nets, calculators, toothbrushes, toothpaste, clothes, flashlights and art supplies. The boys commented “now we can have a football uniform for the boys from Gaba.” Trinity Christian Academy booster club donated blue shorts and shirts and the boys thought they were great. Many of you provided the items we delivered and you were a tremendous blessing to these children.

Thursday we slept in a bit and prepared to meet with David Echau from AWANA International, Samson Sempasa, Pastor Frederick and Lataaya Abdul about the upcoming ministry activities. It was remarkable to see all the faces around the table that we didn’t know we would be working with us only a few weeks ago. The AWANA club is in order and ready for the kickoff in Kabale. In the afternoon we visited the Boys Brigade that Yvonne had connected with earlier and got to know Lataaya the leader. Mark shared a message with the boys about “what Jesus was like as a boy” (Luke 2:52) and they asked several questions and we were all impressed by the depth of the discipleship training taking place. The boys blessed us with a surprise performance complete with acrobatic stunts, singing and music. The end of July Margaret visits Pastor Frederick’s church to present a donation for their construction project at the church. Friday morning we head for Mbarara and Kabale to minister in the Rwenzori Mountains.

God Turns Adversity to Good (Mark)

2006-07-12T02:10:00.000-05:00

Sometimes we hate adversity until the light comes on in our heads and we realize that God is pushing us to a new way of doing things.

Last month, I learned that Barclay’s Bank in Uganda had mistakenly closed our bank account for the discipleship/loan program. Frustrated by inability to get things straightened out from overseas, I was sure I could get things done when we arrived in Uganda. Wrong. The bank was particularly unhelpful and could not even tell me why the account was closed or what I needed to do to open it again.

As I fretted and fought anger, I began to think maybe we should open an account at another bank. It occurred to me we might be able to work out a business partnership with a bank to provide preferred financing to men who complete our business training and Doing Business God’s Way courses. I called some key contacts (both nationally known and respected men in Uganda) who both thought the idea was great and suggested a business-friendly bank which is 60 percent owned by the British government.

Tuesday I had a great meeting with the bank and I have another meeting on Friday with their director of corporate lending, who also is leading an initiative to win more church accounts at the bank. We are discussing how we can refer men trained through our organization, The Rock Kingdom Capital Outreach, to the bank. The bank would give them preferred consideration as we would partner with them in the training and business proposal process.

If we are able to complete this arrangement, it would address two major challenges we have. First, it would increase the total number of men we could serve by making more money available. Also, it would allow us to work with men as their businesses grow and their needs extend beyond the amount of funds The Rock is able to provide.

So now I’m praising God for my problems at Barclay’s Bank. It may be the solution He is providing will take our business discipleship efforts to a whole new level.

Flexibility and Fingerprints the First Few Days

2006-07-12T01:53:00.000-05:00

After sitting on the runway in London, while the engineers replaced an engine on our British Airways plane we learned more about flexibility and God’s timing. During the two hour delay on the plane we began to visit with other passengers including a group from Northern Ireland. Turns out they are staying at the same guest house group and work with the ministry the manager is affiliated with Fields of Life. As we talked to them we discovered they had some boarding schools with spots for orphans. Yvonne had mentioned early on that she hoped we might be able to research schools for the nine orphans she has been helping as a result of the Christmas box she sent. It seems the organization is very open to helping in this area and there are other organizations that one of the men recommended to consider for the boys. When we finally arrived in Entebbe after Mark had waited four hours at the airport, four of our bags were delayed. Fortunately we had mixed the materials so we had a little of several things and all our clothes were not checked.

Monday we unpacked and rested then headed for Gaba to appraise our painting project. We determined the best times to visit the classrooms with the puppets, along with buying paint at a local paint store and shopping for supplies that were too heavy to bring. By evening we were ready to hit the sack.

After a wonderful nighttime rainstorm, Tuesday morning we ate breakfast and headed for Gaba with cool weather and a full schedule. Yvonne and Lindsay started the day with puppet ministry to the pre-school and primary school children. By noon they had worked their way through nine different classrooms. As they entered each classroom they were greeted by the teachers and children. In Uganda it is customary for the children to stand up and say “we welcome you dear visitors.” What a wonderful blessing the children have been to us. Ritah the principal enjoyed explaining the different levels of education and continued to thank us for wanting the help the school by encouraging the teachers and painting scripture verses in each classroom. By 7:30 p.m. the last two classrooms were painted by kerosene lantern!

Margaret had an exciting day seeing old friends, coordinating more ministry opportunities with the new superintendent of all the ARM area schools, setting up final plans for the clinic at Bethany and teaching a women’s ministry class from 5-7 p.m.

The men’s ministry had a time of healing as Mark taught about God’s perspective on righteousness and the men shared testimonies of what had happened in the past year. The faithful men who received loans were recognized and honored for their commitment, the other men shared principles they had learned that had helped them get jobs or improve their businesses. God answered our prayers for healing and also opened more doors to further help the men be strong spiritual leaders and providers for their families.

Tuesday evening we dropped by our old house to see Ben and met a wonderful man from Toronto in radio ministry. The interesting thing about it was that Margaret and Beth McKee (our friend who has come to Uganda twice) had just been to Hope for the Heart to share at the devotional time about Uganda and Margaret had mentioned to June Hunt something about the possibility of broadcasting in Uganda. Could God be connecting the dots? We are always alert for open doors and opportunities where God may be doing something to gain more glory. Hope for the Heart Biblical Counseling is building a presence in Uganda in Kampala, Busia, Rukunjiri and soon there will be training in Kabale. How exciting to see Him at work! We pray this is an open door for Hope for the Heart and possibly Telling the Truth ministry the Briscoes do as well. Ugandans need these radio ministries with sound doctrine and application to face the many challenges they have in life. Wednesday we cross Lake Victoria to visit the homes for orphans along with a visit to the boarding school at Mt. Carmel.

Off and Running (Mark)

2006-07-08T07:56:00.000-05:00

KAMPALA, UGANDA -- I was greatly encouraged today in meeting the man assigned by the leader of the National Fellowship of Born Again Churches in Uganda to oversee the launching of our new men’s business discipleship program here.

Dr. Abed Bwanika is a veterinarian, accomplished businessman and pastor who volunteers as head of professional development of the church organization, which represents 10,000 congregations in Uganda. Abed also was an independent presidential candidate in the recent Uganda elections. Although he received only 1 percent of the vote, he said he was able to increase awareness of the need of Christians to speak out against political and societal corruption.

Abed shares the passion to create Godly businessmen who can be a light for Jesus and impact the nation. Our businessmen’s discipleship program includes potential loan availability for those wishing to expand their Kingdom businesses. Abed already has experience in implementing loan programs. As head of the professional veterinarian organization in Uganda, he oversees a government-funded loan program to assist veterinarians in opening new clinics.

Abed will be preparing a memorandum of understanding based on our talks which will be submitted to the Uganda church organization and our US nonprofit organization, The Rock Kingdom Capital Outreach, for board approval. Abed will be visiting the US in September.

God has blessed us with a like-minded partner who is willing to lead in accomplishing the vision of making prosperous disciples to uplift the nations.

Here We Go Into the Wild Blue Yonder

2006-07-05T12:07:00.000-05:00

I (Mark) am preparing as I write this to leave for DFW Airport for another tour of duty in Africa. I am leaving three days ahead of Margaret and her team to make sure everything is in place for them when they arrive.

I am filled with anticipation of what God is going to do, keenly aware of Proverbs 16:19, which says, “In his heart a man plans his course, but the LORD determines his steps.”

Missions are always an adventure. We never know what the Lord has in store. On Saturday, I will be meeting in Kampala with a representative of an organization of 10,000 Bible-believing churches in Uganda to work out details of implementing a businessmen’s discipleship program. Please pray for unity and the leading of the Holy Spirit. The program includes the potential of low interest business loans for worthy men. Please pray the money aspect does not overshadow nor pollute the discipleship aspect.

Tuesday I will be reconnecting with the men of Gaba Community Church. A few of these men who had their loans foreclosed because of unfaithfulness have failed to grasp the meaning of forgiveness and grace. They believe forgiveness and grace frees them from consequences and they cannot understand why their loans cannot be renewed. Please pray I will be able to show the love of Jesus to these men; that the Lord will use me to speak His word in a way that opens their hearts to the truth; and that these men will grow in their faith and love of the Lord as a result of their experiences. I feel the Lord is leading me to speak on righteousness. Please pray He will point me to just the right Scriptures.

I am finalizing preparations to teach 10 men in Kisumu Kenya on “Doing Business God’s Way.” The course begins July 23 and runs 9.5 hours per day for five days. Please pray the Lord will prepare their hearts and that He will give me discernment and a love for each individual man. Their names are:

PAUL OKECH
GEORGE MAKUNDA
DANIEL MWANGI
WILSON ASUMA
GORDON MANGICHO
DANIEL OMONDI
CHARLES KAMAU
ERICK OMONDI
ANTONEY MAKADINA
NORMAN NYABWANDA

It was interesting as Margaret and I spent our daily time in the Word and prayer this morning that today’s reading was from the Book of Jonah. I don’t feel the reluctance that Jonah did in completing his assignment, but I must admit the obstacles to teaching Godly business principles in Africa sometimes seem daunting. Our one year Bible includes daily devotions from Oswald Chambers. This is what he wrote that spoke to my heart today:

“Arguers against obeying the call of God will arise in the shape of country and kindred, and if you listen to them you will soon dull your ears to God’s call and become the dullest, most commonplace Christian imaginable, because you will have no courage in your faith; you have seen and heard, but have not gone on. If you accept sympathy from those who have not heard the call of God, it will so blunt your own sense of His call that you become useless to Him.”

Living Water in Uganda...the Nile River

2006-07-03T18:26:00.000-05:00

The Nile River Near Jinja...It always reminds
me of the verse about living
water in John 7:38 and
the gift of eternal life that Jesus offers us.

Please keep us in your prayers in the next couple of months in particular.

Below is the team prayer guide:

Saturday July 8th Travel-Leave Dallas

Please pray for safe travel, flexibility, good connections, health, hearts
that are prepared to serve each other and develop a special bond of
love by submitting to each other.

Acts 8:26-40
Flexibility

Sunday July 9th Travel-London

Please pray for sleep on the plane, opportunities to minister to other
passengers, team flexibility, baggage making all connections.

Acts 16:6-10
Flexibility

Monday July 10th-Kampala

Please pray for clearing customs, rest and recovery from flight,
coordination meeting, communication and logistics,
opportunities to use our testimonies to witness to others.

John 13:34-35
Love

Tuesday July 11th-Gaba

Please pray for good health, ground logistics, sacrifice and submission to each
other, expanded time painting in classrooms. Women’s ministry evening.

Phil 2:1-8
Sacrifice and Submission

Wednesday July 12th-Bethany Village

Please pray for clear communication, expanded time to get the scripture verses
painted in the homes for orphans, great time of praise and
worship, more faith, expect miracles and answered prayers.

Mark 6:4-6
Faith

Thursday July 13th-Gaba

Please pray for classroom ministry, devotional at the Brigade
(a group of orphans Yvonne has been ministering to via e-mail),
opportunities to share the Gospel around church, loving each other.

John 17:20-23
Unity and Love

Friday July 14th-Mbarara

Please pray for safe travel, logistics, no car problems, ministry to missionary
friends of Lindsay's who attended Moody Bible Institute,
storytelling and puppet ministry to children.

Hebrews 11:6
Faith

Saturday July 15th-Rukunjiri

Please pray for safe travel, logistics, Kabale AWANA details, team unity,
prepared hearts of the leaders and children, opportunities to show love to leaders.

John 13:34-35
Unity and Love

Sunday July 16th-Kabale

Please pray for encouraging messages to churches, provision for orphans,
communication, prepared hearts and accountability.

John 15:5
Prayer

Monday July 17th-Kabale

Please pray for team teaching with leaders, opportunities to encourage
church leaders, logistics for seminars and transportation.

Romans 13:1-2
Sacrifice and Submission

Tuesday July 18th-Kabale

Please pray for safety and health, protection, good communication,
good weather, opportunities to minister.

Mark 10:27
Faith

Wednesday July 19th-Mbarara

Please pray for safe travel, opportunities to share the
impact of the trip, patience, flexibility.

1 Cor 13:1-13
Unity and Love

Thursday July 20th-Kampala

Please pray for completion of ministry tasks, open doors,
opportunities to minister to each other, good communication.

Mark 9:23
Faith

Friday July 21st Travel-Depart for London

Please pray for hearts to be prepared to return home, teamwork
during travel logistics, direction in ministry at home and abroad.

Eph 5:21
Sacrifice and Submission

Saturday July 22nd Travel-Dallas

Please pray for safe travel, opportunities to minister to other
passengers, baggage connections, sleep on the plane.

Gen 12:1
Flexibility

Where the Gals Are in Uganda!

2006-06-30T18:08:00.001-05:00

The team begins the trip landing in Entebbe, then staying at a guest house in Kampala for the first few days working with Africa Renewal Ministries painting scripture verses in school classrooms, before heading west to Kabale on the western border near Rwanda. Along the way we will visit missionary friends of Lindsay's in Mbarara (about 5 hours from Kampala and 3 hours from Kabale). We have to keep reminding Yvonne that you don't have to pronounce the M! After ministering with Pastor Johnson in Kabale and Pastor Elisha in Rukunjiri (too small for the map) we return to visit some orphans Yvonne met through Operation Christmas Child Shoebox Project where some orphans began e-mailing her after receiving their gifts. It has been a great adventure for Yvonne and as she says, "it isn't over yet and just beginning." We continue to pray that God will guide our decisions and direct our paths as we are alert for what He wants us to do. What an awesome adventure!

Texas Gals Ready for Uganda!

2006-06-30T17:19:00.000-05:00

Yvonne Pickens, Lindsay Peoples and Margaret Noblin

The Texas Team of ladies have been meeting every Thursday night for the past few weeks in preparation for the trip to Uganda. God has been in all the details as they totally began from scratch developing a new trip after another trip was cancelled. As they prayed and asked the Lord for direction amazing things started to happen. Yvonne and Lindsay have teaching background and a passion for working with children. Margaret has been working specifically with orphans so the combined effort was very interesting. As they began planning it became obvious to all of them that there were rural communities needing AWANA (an international children's ministry that trains children in the Christian faith using fun games, scripture memory verses and life applications messages to help the children become established and secure in their beliefs). As they put the word out to people, the donations started pouring in. Items for orphans in a boarding school, AWANA sponsorship support, Life Application Bibles, towels, calculators, soap and toiletries, flashlights, clothes and more. You see God gets more glory when more people are involved! Two pastors up in the Rwenzori Mountains of Uganda who the Noblins knew from living in Uganda e-mailed Margaret that there was a tremendous need for AWANA. The team was curious and excited about the area. Many call it the "Switzerland of Uganda" because of its lakes, mountains, cool climate and beauty. Another added interest was that the area is close to where Jane Goodall did her research on primates. As we proceed all the details are falling into place including Lindsay's school classroom being painted before she left. (She thought she would have to do it when she returned, but on a recent visit to the school the painters were there and said we will do it today!) God is very personal and in all the details when we sign on to be used for His purposes. Please pray for us as we leave on Saturday, July 8th for Uganda.