Archive for December, 2008
Christmas in Uganda
We’re four days back in America, after spending two powerful weeks in Uganda, and we’d be remiss if we didn’t make a quick post saying a) we’re back and alive, b) we had a marvelous, life-changing time, c) thank you for all the well-wishes, support, and love from our friends and family, and d) Merry Christmas!
We spent two weeks throwing Christmas parties for the 2,000 orphans and mothers supported by the Watoto ministry in Kampala, Uganda. For many of these children, this was the best party, and the only gift they’ve ever received in their lives.
Our eyes were opened to how Ugandans live their everyday lives, and the challenges they face in Africa (HIV/AIDS, 45% unemployment, 50% of the country is under age 15, 93% don’t have access to drinking water).
We were happy to do our part in inspire the Watoto children, who are being given great resources to grow and become the next leaders of Uganda and Africa. In the same week, Katie and I met a baby rescued from a dumpster 3 days earlier and then saw a glimpse of that baby’s future when we met a University student about to graduate as an I.T. professional.
We sing this song at our church right now called “You’ll Come” and it goes like this:
Chains be Broken
Lives be Healed
Eyes be Opened
Christ is Revealed
That’s what happened. God is moving in Africa. He’s not just providing enough for mere survival, but he’s taking children who are literally thrown away like garbage and using them to lead the next generation.
Get ready to support us again, friends and family…. Oasis is sending another team to Uganda in October 2009…
(Photos and videos are coming soon: I took 3500 photos myself, which I won’t subject anyone to, not even Katie.)
It’s time!
I can’t believe it. It’s time for us to leave for Uganda. Bags are packed. Malaria pill was taken. Cars are situated (we have street cleaning restrictions). Bills paid. Apartment keys distributed to trusty friends (helps when one of your very best friends lives across the street!) We are ready!
Things I knew I’d pack for Uganda:
- Lots of snacks and books for the 22 hours of flight time (not counting layovers!)
- Gifts and supplies for the people we’ll be serving.
- Comfortable shoes and sunscreen.
Things I did NOT know I would pack for Uganda:
- a Santa suit.
Yes, we have a Santa suit in our luggage to use for one of the Christmas parties for the kids. The even funnier part, Alec had to take out his TUX to fit the Santa suit. He was really looking forward to impressing the mum’s at the surprise dinner we are throwing for them… they are the backbone of the Watoto organization and have given their lives to raise orphans. We can’t wait to honor them. and of course, can’t wait to see our friend in a Santa suit in the middle of Africa.
See you in a few weeks – we look forward to sharing our experience with you. We’ll do our best to check in through the blog, but don’t know how possible that will be. We love you all!
alec and katie
