Saturday, August 30, 2008
Thursday, August 28, 2008
1 Month Update
As the third week of school began, so did lots of other stuff. I am started a discipleship group for some of the young college girls from KIU (Kampala International University) last night. These are girls who want to know how to share the good news, how to grow their relationships with Jesus, how to live as a light. I’m excited for this part of my ministry to get started and take off. I wasn’t just brought here to be a teacher… although that’s what I’m doing now, so I’m working at it. I believe I am here to work with the youth, both at HIS and at in the local churches. I’m excited that that part of my ministry has begun and I’m looking forward to the jr. high and then the senior high retreats coming up in a few weeks.
Would you be in prayer for those retreats? There have been MAJOR behavior problems in the past and many of those kids will be joining us this year. Pray for hearts to be softened and that souls are won. The retreat place takes care of everything as far as lessons and activities go, so it’s going to be a great chance for those of us on leadership to grow our relationships with the kids. The kids know the other leaders pretty well because they’ve been here for a while. Francis (he teaches music at HIS and all the kids love him) and Lisa have been with these kids for a while. Nick came this past April or so and of course I’ve been here a month. The other leaders have the opportunity to work with the kids on a daily basis because they all teach in the secondary. Since I’m on the elementary side I don’t get to see the kids as often. I’ve really got to work on learning some names! I’m horrible at it. I have a meeting with Lisa and Nick today to talk about the retreats… please be praying.
So anyways… I’ve been out of the States for a month now, but it’s flown by for me. I am going to try to be better at posting more pictures on here, but the internet just doesn’t play nice some days. So it seems like in the past month I have done everything, but nothing. I’ve definitely been real busy, but I think it’s been a lot of settling into a routine. I’m going to try my best not to settle too far into a routine because then it becomes a rut. I think I could easily find myself in a rut… and maybe I’m already carving one right now.
Much of the time my attitude reflects the attitudes of those around me. If people are being negative it is easy for me to be that way too instead of countering that, you know? I need to not fall into that. I am a light, and not that I can’t have a rough day, but my attitude should be more reflective of that of Christ. I keep being brought back to Philippians 2. Even last night during my discipleship group I felt very led to share that with the group and let them know that I am working towards reflecting the attitude described there.
Regarding the discipleship group, the book I want to use is about $19 each. I need to order at least 15 of them and have them shipped here which not only means a lot of money, but a lot of waiting. The girls are all really excited about the book choice which is why we’re sticking with that particular one. Please pray that funds continue to come in, I can pay for the books out of my ministry account, but that will also take away funds from other things. I think there are about 11 girls so far and only one of them did not share that they were saved. Be praying for Franklyn. She is our only Ugandan in the group. The rest of the ladies are Kenyan. I’m really hoping to learn some Swahili and Lugandan. There is a really cool dictionary that I have my eye on… maybe this weekend I’ll splurge and buy it.
In the school we all have prayer/accountability partners. I was “assigned” Donna Bourne. She is a missionary with WGM, so I know her and her husband and family pretty well. They are the ones from Chillicothe, OH, so we have fun and get along well. Yesterday Donna and I had our first meeting and it went really well. I’m comfortable with her and I think we will be able to connect really well. She’s so sweet.
For dinner tonight my roomie and I have invited Donna and Keith’s daughter, Haley over for dinner. Haley is one of 2 or 3 seniors and she could really use some friends. She’s very quiet girl, so I’m hoping to find a way to really get to know her and invest in her. She may be going back to the States for college soon, so the time is now! We also invited the niece of a family who has kids in the school over tonight. Her name is Dani and she just graduated high school last year, so I’m hoping that she is able to connect with Haley well. I just met Dani today, but she’s sweet and I’m hoping she catches onto what my goal is with her and Haley. ☺
I’m not sure what’s in store for this weekend yet, but I’ve got to make it through the week first. Tomorrow night is Open House for the parents and families to come and see what the kids have been doing. Also, there is a BBQ right before Open House that we have to be at. After tomorrow I’m not even going to think about school for 2 straight days! This weekend we might drive up to the pool that I wrote about, or maybe we’ll go down to the Lake again. Who knows? I’m hoping paintball happens very soon! Some of the MKs have been asking to go for a while now.
Oh man, I guess that’s it for now. Thank you so much for being faithful in praying for me. Your prayers are being felt, especially on the days when I can’t seem to lift my hands in prayer myself. Much love and many blessings to you all.
OH!! Ps my classroom might be growing by one! We are in the process of testing a Ugandan boy to see what level he can be placed in. His name is Majesty. So pray for him.
Would you be in prayer for those retreats? There have been MAJOR behavior problems in the past and many of those kids will be joining us this year. Pray for hearts to be softened and that souls are won. The retreat place takes care of everything as far as lessons and activities go, so it’s going to be a great chance for those of us on leadership to grow our relationships with the kids. The kids know the other leaders pretty well because they’ve been here for a while. Francis (he teaches music at HIS and all the kids love him) and Lisa have been with these kids for a while. Nick came this past April or so and of course I’ve been here a month. The other leaders have the opportunity to work with the kids on a daily basis because they all teach in the secondary. Since I’m on the elementary side I don’t get to see the kids as often. I’ve really got to work on learning some names! I’m horrible at it. I have a meeting with Lisa and Nick today to talk about the retreats… please be praying.
So anyways… I’ve been out of the States for a month now, but it’s flown by for me. I am going to try to be better at posting more pictures on here, but the internet just doesn’t play nice some days. So it seems like in the past month I have done everything, but nothing. I’ve definitely been real busy, but I think it’s been a lot of settling into a routine. I’m going to try my best not to settle too far into a routine because then it becomes a rut. I think I could easily find myself in a rut… and maybe I’m already carving one right now.
Much of the time my attitude reflects the attitudes of those around me. If people are being negative it is easy for me to be that way too instead of countering that, you know? I need to not fall into that. I am a light, and not that I can’t have a rough day, but my attitude should be more reflective of that of Christ. I keep being brought back to Philippians 2. Even last night during my discipleship group I felt very led to share that with the group and let them know that I am working towards reflecting the attitude described there.
Regarding the discipleship group, the book I want to use is about $19 each. I need to order at least 15 of them and have them shipped here which not only means a lot of money, but a lot of waiting. The girls are all really excited about the book choice which is why we’re sticking with that particular one. Please pray that funds continue to come in, I can pay for the books out of my ministry account, but that will also take away funds from other things. I think there are about 11 girls so far and only one of them did not share that they were saved. Be praying for Franklyn. She is our only Ugandan in the group. The rest of the ladies are Kenyan. I’m really hoping to learn some Swahili and Lugandan. There is a really cool dictionary that I have my eye on… maybe this weekend I’ll splurge and buy it.
In the school we all have prayer/accountability partners. I was “assigned” Donna Bourne. She is a missionary with WGM, so I know her and her husband and family pretty well. They are the ones from Chillicothe, OH, so we have fun and get along well. Yesterday Donna and I had our first meeting and it went really well. I’m comfortable with her and I think we will be able to connect really well. She’s so sweet.
For dinner tonight my roomie and I have invited Donna and Keith’s daughter, Haley over for dinner. Haley is one of 2 or 3 seniors and she could really use some friends. She’s very quiet girl, so I’m hoping to find a way to really get to know her and invest in her. She may be going back to the States for college soon, so the time is now! We also invited the niece of a family who has kids in the school over tonight. Her name is Dani and she just graduated high school last year, so I’m hoping that she is able to connect with Haley well. I just met Dani today, but she’s sweet and I’m hoping she catches onto what my goal is with her and Haley. ☺
I’m not sure what’s in store for this weekend yet, but I’ve got to make it through the week first. Tomorrow night is Open House for the parents and families to come and see what the kids have been doing. Also, there is a BBQ right before Open House that we have to be at. After tomorrow I’m not even going to think about school for 2 straight days! This weekend we might drive up to the pool that I wrote about, or maybe we’ll go down to the Lake again. Who knows? I’m hoping paintball happens very soon! Some of the MKs have been asking to go for a while now.
Oh man, I guess that’s it for now. Thank you so much for being faithful in praying for me. Your prayers are being felt, especially on the days when I can’t seem to lift my hands in prayer myself. Much love and many blessings to you all.
OH!! Ps my classroom might be growing by one! We are in the process of testing a Ugandan boy to see what level he can be placed in. His name is Majesty. So pray for him.
Wednesday, August 27, 2008
Lake Victoria
This is from when Jean, Nick, and I drove down to near Entebbe to sit, read, relax, and take some pictures by beautiful Lake Victoria.
Youth Group
This is our first youth group meeting. We're sitting on each other all at the same time. The girls did not do a great job of this. :)
Friday, August 22, 2008
It's a Small World...
I don’t have anything substantial to say… but I do have a funny experience I’d like to share. Yesterday our WGM Kampala had a prayer meeting at one of the missionary’s houses. This particular family lives too far from my apartment to walk to. So after school I had to walk up to the Duplex (2 house that are connected, that are shared by 2 WGM missionary families.) to drop a bill off in the finance office and see if I could get a ride to the meeting. So we’re walking up the first big hill and it’s like hiking up any normal semi-steep hillside. As we round the corner at the top we can faintly hear “It’s a Small World” playing from somewhere.
Well this isn’t the first time I’ve heard that song playing randomly around here. I was working in my classroom at the school last Sunday before evening fellowship and I heard it playing. It’s always pretty faint though.
So anyways as we round the corner and are on flat ground for a while before we begin the next hill, “It’s a Small World” grows louder and louder. I say to my roomie, “sounds like it could be an ice cream man. How awesome would that be?!” Then we talk about how we’ve heard it before. All the while the song is growing louder. Well about 45 seconds later a bike rolls by with an orange Gatorade-type cooler, with a sign on it that says ‘ice cream’.
I’m guessing you don’t find this as funny as I did, but it was just perfect. There is so much need and a lack of so many things here, even in the city; yet there is an ice cream man... with a boom box... and a cooler full of ice cream.
Anypoo, I’m a day away from the end of my second week of teaching and I’m pretty pumped about that. I like my job/ministry, but I love Saturdays. I’m not sure what’s going down this weekend, but maybe some paintball at the place we found last weekend. Maybe catching a movie. I’d like to check out this orphanage that a couple girls I know volunteer at.
Oh, something else that’s kind of exciting… last night we were invited for dinner at a house that has decent internet. So we brought out computers to email and Skype. My roommate has a newer Mac than I do and her’s has a web cam built in. Well I use skype on my computer a lot, but I used her computer so that when I called my sister, the baby could see me. I was sad I couldn’t see her, but knowing that she was so excited to see me was awesome. I’m hoping my family gets a web cam soon so that I can see the girlies.
Be praying for the teachers and students at HIS, for our health. Quite a few teachers have already missed a day of work and on of the MKs has missed two days. There are a ton of germs when there are that many kids in small spaces and they love to touch EVERYTHING and everyone around them. Gross. So, please be praying for that. Also, if you would still be in prayer about my finances, that would be much appreciated. Thank you for being supportive. Thanks for being faithful servants with me! ☺
Love,
Chris
Well this isn’t the first time I’ve heard that song playing randomly around here. I was working in my classroom at the school last Sunday before evening fellowship and I heard it playing. It’s always pretty faint though.
So anyways as we round the corner and are on flat ground for a while before we begin the next hill, “It’s a Small World” grows louder and louder. I say to my roomie, “sounds like it could be an ice cream man. How awesome would that be?!” Then we talk about how we’ve heard it before. All the while the song is growing louder. Well about 45 seconds later a bike rolls by with an orange Gatorade-type cooler, with a sign on it that says ‘ice cream’.
I’m guessing you don’t find this as funny as I did, but it was just perfect. There is so much need and a lack of so many things here, even in the city; yet there is an ice cream man... with a boom box... and a cooler full of ice cream.
Anypoo, I’m a day away from the end of my second week of teaching and I’m pretty pumped about that. I like my job/ministry, but I love Saturdays. I’m not sure what’s going down this weekend, but maybe some paintball at the place we found last weekend. Maybe catching a movie. I’d like to check out this orphanage that a couple girls I know volunteer at.
Oh, something else that’s kind of exciting… last night we were invited for dinner at a house that has decent internet. So we brought out computers to email and Skype. My roommate has a newer Mac than I do and her’s has a web cam built in. Well I use skype on my computer a lot, but I used her computer so that when I called my sister, the baby could see me. I was sad I couldn’t see her, but knowing that she was so excited to see me was awesome. I’m hoping my family gets a web cam soon so that I can see the girlies.
Be praying for the teachers and students at HIS, for our health. Quite a few teachers have already missed a day of work and on of the MKs has missed two days. There are a ton of germs when there are that many kids in small spaces and they love to touch EVERYTHING and everyone around them. Gross. So, please be praying for that. Also, if you would still be in prayer about my finances, that would be much appreciated. Thank you for being supportive. Thanks for being faithful servants with me! ☺
Love,
Chris
Wednesday, August 20, 2008
10 Hours
Hello friends! I’m in my second week of school right now and all is well. Honestly, it’s a big challenge, but I see progress in the students already. We have our first big test tomorrow in Social Studies. I guess we’ll see how things are going after I’ve graded their tests. What’s nice is that my grade has most of their specials like art, music, and French in the afternoons, so I have the opportunity to grade, make copies, and get prepared for the next day. I don’t have too much home with me at all. I like being able to leave and leave my work at work. You know? Plus this way I have the opportunity to focus on the youth and stuff with that.
Speaking of the youth, we had our beginning of the year youth bash on Friday night. We met at my VIA coordinator, Lisa’s house. We weren’t expecting more than maybe 12 or 15 kids to come, but 23 showed up! It was awesome. They’re a good group of kids, rough around the edges, but a good group. Nick, Lisa, and I are running things right now. So when we first got there we started off with some games and the kids absolutely loved them. ( some parents told us on Monday how much their kids were talking about the games.) ☺ After the games we ate tons of food… everyone brought something to share. After food we had a few more games to tie into the lesson. Then Lisa did the lesson, and then we had the kids write down things they wanted to learn about or talk about at youth group. I thought it would be a good idea because it seemed to work well with my youth back in the states. Then we did a few songs and the kids were on their way.
My only reservation with all this is the age difference between some of the kids. We have 7th through 12th graders all in one group. I’d like to split them up and do some more age appropriate stuff.
So anyways, this past weekend was nice and relaxing. Jean and I took the car and went exploring on Saturday. When we got up and around we went and used the internet for a while and then we went out. We looked into geocaching and found that there are some caches fairly close to where we live. Yay for bringing my gps! After we got all or info we went exploring. We wanted to go down to Lake Victoria and just chill, but instead we went to check out a resort on the lake. They have an amazing pool that we can pay to use whenever, so we wanted to get info on prices and stuff.
Sidebar: So those of you that know me freakishly well know that it is one of my dreams to swim in a place with a bar in the pool. Why? Because I just think it’s awesome! How fun would that be? I don’t even drink alcohol, but who wouldn’t want a nice glass of pop while they’re swimming around. Well, the pool has a bar in it!! I can now go where ever on my honeymoon… I’m no longer restricted to somewhere with a bar in the pool because my dream will come true at some point this semester.
Moving on, Nick had us over for dinner and then we hung out and played some games. Sunday Jean and I went to church at an Anglican church, not an Africa Gospel Church this week. It was a neat service. We were two of three mzungus there. We went for lunch at a cute café after church, came home, got our stuff, went down to the school to do some planning for Monday, and then met in the library with some WGMers and a few others for Sunday night fellowship. We led worship, which was great because they generally sing old songs not many people know and they do them a’cappella. A’cappella is ok sometimes, but I don’t like it all the time. We’re watching a DVD series for fellowship by Louie Giglio. The lesson Sunday was great… it totally tied into what I did for devos every morning with my class last week.
So now I’m in week two and even though things are going well it seems like the year is going to drag on. I think time will start moving faster once the subject matter starts advancing a bit. Right now we’re still reviewing a bit. Also things will pick up as I get to know the youth better and we’re all hanging out more. I already have a few of them picked out as some I would love to work on. One’s that I can’t wait to see what God has in store for them, you know?
So anyways, I’m starting to miss home a bit. The worst part is not being able to see my nieces growing and learning new things everyday. Alexandria still recognizes my voice and gets smiley when I talk to her, but I wish I could see her face. She has learned so many new things in just the past 3 weeks since I’ve been gone. There’s this song I’ve been introduced to this week called 10 Hours by Warren Barfield. He’s a Christian artist out of Nashville right now. Check out his myspace page if you have the chance.
Well folks, there are some new pics up on facebook… pics of my classroom and some other stuff. I hope all is well with you. The Lord is so good and so faithful. I hope you’re finding that to be true everyday for you. This morning I read Matthew 16:24-28 to my class during out morning devotional time. I encourage you to read it today and make it true for your lives everyday. Much love, homies!
Speaking of the youth, we had our beginning of the year youth bash on Friday night. We met at my VIA coordinator, Lisa’s house. We weren’t expecting more than maybe 12 or 15 kids to come, but 23 showed up! It was awesome. They’re a good group of kids, rough around the edges, but a good group. Nick, Lisa, and I are running things right now. So when we first got there we started off with some games and the kids absolutely loved them. ( some parents told us on Monday how much their kids were talking about the games.) ☺ After the games we ate tons of food… everyone brought something to share. After food we had a few more games to tie into the lesson. Then Lisa did the lesson, and then we had the kids write down things they wanted to learn about or talk about at youth group. I thought it would be a good idea because it seemed to work well with my youth back in the states. Then we did a few songs and the kids were on their way.
My only reservation with all this is the age difference between some of the kids. We have 7th through 12th graders all in one group. I’d like to split them up and do some more age appropriate stuff.
So anyways, this past weekend was nice and relaxing. Jean and I took the car and went exploring on Saturday. When we got up and around we went and used the internet for a while and then we went out. We looked into geocaching and found that there are some caches fairly close to where we live. Yay for bringing my gps! After we got all or info we went exploring. We wanted to go down to Lake Victoria and just chill, but instead we went to check out a resort on the lake. They have an amazing pool that we can pay to use whenever, so we wanted to get info on prices and stuff.
Sidebar: So those of you that know me freakishly well know that it is one of my dreams to swim in a place with a bar in the pool. Why? Because I just think it’s awesome! How fun would that be? I don’t even drink alcohol, but who wouldn’t want a nice glass of pop while they’re swimming around. Well, the pool has a bar in it!! I can now go where ever on my honeymoon… I’m no longer restricted to somewhere with a bar in the pool because my dream will come true at some point this semester.
Moving on, Nick had us over for dinner and then we hung out and played some games. Sunday Jean and I went to church at an Anglican church, not an Africa Gospel Church this week. It was a neat service. We were two of three mzungus there. We went for lunch at a cute café after church, came home, got our stuff, went down to the school to do some planning for Monday, and then met in the library with some WGMers and a few others for Sunday night fellowship. We led worship, which was great because they generally sing old songs not many people know and they do them a’cappella. A’cappella is ok sometimes, but I don’t like it all the time. We’re watching a DVD series for fellowship by Louie Giglio. The lesson Sunday was great… it totally tied into what I did for devos every morning with my class last week.
So now I’m in week two and even though things are going well it seems like the year is going to drag on. I think time will start moving faster once the subject matter starts advancing a bit. Right now we’re still reviewing a bit. Also things will pick up as I get to know the youth better and we’re all hanging out more. I already have a few of them picked out as some I would love to work on. One’s that I can’t wait to see what God has in store for them, you know?
So anyways, I’m starting to miss home a bit. The worst part is not being able to see my nieces growing and learning new things everyday. Alexandria still recognizes my voice and gets smiley when I talk to her, but I wish I could see her face. She has learned so many new things in just the past 3 weeks since I’ve been gone. There’s this song I’ve been introduced to this week called 10 Hours by Warren Barfield. He’s a Christian artist out of Nashville right now. Check out his myspace page if you have the chance.
Well folks, there are some new pics up on facebook… pics of my classroom and some other stuff. I hope all is well with you. The Lord is so good and so faithful. I hope you’re finding that to be true everyday for you. This morning I read Matthew 16:24-28 to my class during out morning devotional time. I encourage you to read it today and make it true for your lives everyday. Much love, homies!
Wednesday, August 13, 2008
Dirt Roads and Mighty Words
Well my goal is to post once or twice a week and so far I haven't followed through, but now that I have more of a schedule it is my plan to do so. Well, last week I had orientation for the school monday, tuesday, and wednesday morning until lunch. After lunch we were given the opportunity to work in our classrooms and get stuff set up. I was done and set up by tuesday, so I spent my time writing lesson plans and helping others set their rooms up. Thursday and Friday were registration days and we were asked to be in the classroom as much as possible to meet the students and their parents. Thursday we had a team meeting within WGM to get caught up on things and find out what the plan is for the next few weeks. It's mainly for the career missionaries, but as VIA we (Nick, Jean, and I) are allowed and encouraged to sit in because we're long term VIA (volunteers in action).
The meeting was informative and I learned a ton about the field here in Kampala and a little bit about what our team in the northern part of the country is doing. I've also had the opportunity to spend more time with each of the missionary families and their kids and I just love them all. There is one family here from Chillicothe, OH where a good friend of mine is from, so it's fun to hang out with them. They are a little reminder of home everyday. They're just so comfortable and loving. They have two girls who are high school age and I'm enjoying getting to know them. Nick, Jean, and I, all being VIA try and hang out with the kids and get to spend some time with them. I believe that MKs are just another ministry to be involved in. One of the MKs is in my 6th grade class and I love him!
Speaking of class, I only have 4 student because a few were not able to return for one reason or another. Easy right? Well one of my students just arrived here from South Korea and doesn't speak english much beyond casual greetings. BUT we've only had 3 days of class and our communication has already improved greatly. She is really getting involved in class now. I'm excited to see how she grows over the next year. 6th grade is a fun age for me because they still actually want to learn. They still ask questions and they still (for the most part) pay attention. Something that I am so excited about is teaching my bible class as a part of the curriculum. Teaching in a Christian school has it's advantages.
There are many other first year teachers here who never went to college for Education either, so it's been an encouragement and I really feel like I can do it. I have support in all directions. Our principal is wonderful and she is also very supportive of me.
So other than that I've been slowly learning my way around. Me, Nick, and Jean share on vehicle and since Nick doesn't live within walking distance of the school he usually has the car. But this weekend I got to drive around Kampala and do some last minute school shopping. Driving on the left isn't the tricky part here... the tricky part is not dying. But in all seriousness there are laws, but none of them are in place. It is normal to see cars passing uphill, stopping where ever they want, driving on the wrong side, you name it, they do it. The 'boda bodas' or motorcycles for hire are the craziest drivers so far though. I've yet to have to take a boda and my plan is to never have to, but you never know. I like motorcycles, but I also like not weaving in and out of traffic and obeying common courtesy laws.
I've now been to two of the churches that WGM has planted here in Kampala and the surrounding areas. The goal is so train Ugandans to be pastors, help them get their church started, and then for them to run everything on their own. It seems pretty successful so far. The Ugandan pastors that I've met are really nice and VERY welcoming. Of course I'm normally the only Muzungo in the service, along with whoever I came with, but I like it that way. We do a worship service here at the school on sunday evenings. It's open to everyone, but it seems like a very WGM populated group. This week Nick and I are leading worship, so I'm excited about that. I am so glad I decided to bring my guitar!
I've already been to the movie theatre here, but the only thing I wanted to see was the Dark Knight, which I'd seen before, but it was good. I've been to the mall and lots of little stores along the road called dukas. This past friday we went to "friday market" which is just an out door market where crafts, clothing, gifts, jewelry, and stuff like that is sold. It was a very cool experience. Of course I've had experience bartering from when I was in Mexico, but this was much more interactive and competitive.
I've not really had any feelings of homesickness yet, but I do sometimes feel like I'm missing a lot of stuff in the states. I don't like not being able to pick up my phone and talk to someone for an hour or two without it costing 60,000UGX, you know? But I'll survive. So what if I wake up at 5:30 am to talk to people, at least I get to hear your voices!
I wish I could box you all up and have you shipped to me because there's so much I want to show you and tell you about and I don't do any of it justice with my words.
Would you all be continually be praying for the field here in Uganda, specifically for our Kampala team. Pray for Heritage International School (HIS) as some roles are still not filled and the year is underway. Pray for teachers and students as we've already had a number of absences due to illness. Pray for the students to open their hearts and be willing to receive Christ for those that don't know Him, and for those that do that they would draw nearer to Him daily. Pray for Uganda. Pray for the people. I've never met people more kind and welcoming in my life. This is a beautiful place with it's orange/red dirt roads, random animals wandering the streets, and the sounds of children's laughter as they play games with an empty bottle in the street. For some this would be their worst nightmare... when the power goes out we have no hot water and our toilet doesn't flush, we will never have air conditioning in our apartment or the internet. We have to wash out clothes by hand, boil water just to brush our teeth. There are giant bugs creeping around everywhere. When we buy "fresh" fruit from the market we have to soak it in bleach water to kill the parasites and then let it air dry completely before consuming. Normal things like cheap shampoo are about 5 dollars for a small bottle. There is a mosquito net over my bed, and I can't go out after dark because of safety issues. But it's not a nightmare to me... it's actually beautiful. Of course there are comforts I miss, but there are also experiences to be had and I wouldn't want to stifle myself or my God by giving up or checking out.
I pray that you're blessed and encouraged by the things you've read. I pray that you would gain a little understanding of what I get to experience here and the ways that God is moving. He is here, He is big, and His plans are perfect. I take rest and comfort in that. Joshua 1:9 says, "Be strong and courageous. Do not be terrified; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you where ever you go." Thank God that He keeps His word. Thank God that He is with me here and also with you there. I love you all very much! Please keep me updated on your lives and let me know how I can be praying for you, k?
Love,
Chris
ps it's less than a dollar to send snail mail letters. (again, hint hint!)
The meeting was informative and I learned a ton about the field here in Kampala and a little bit about what our team in the northern part of the country is doing. I've also had the opportunity to spend more time with each of the missionary families and their kids and I just love them all. There is one family here from Chillicothe, OH where a good friend of mine is from, so it's fun to hang out with them. They are a little reminder of home everyday. They're just so comfortable and loving. They have two girls who are high school age and I'm enjoying getting to know them. Nick, Jean, and I, all being VIA try and hang out with the kids and get to spend some time with them. I believe that MKs are just another ministry to be involved in. One of the MKs is in my 6th grade class and I love him!
Speaking of class, I only have 4 student because a few were not able to return for one reason or another. Easy right? Well one of my students just arrived here from South Korea and doesn't speak english much beyond casual greetings. BUT we've only had 3 days of class and our communication has already improved greatly. She is really getting involved in class now. I'm excited to see how she grows over the next year. 6th grade is a fun age for me because they still actually want to learn. They still ask questions and they still (for the most part) pay attention. Something that I am so excited about is teaching my bible class as a part of the curriculum. Teaching in a Christian school has it's advantages.
There are many other first year teachers here who never went to college for Education either, so it's been an encouragement and I really feel like I can do it. I have support in all directions. Our principal is wonderful and she is also very supportive of me.
So other than that I've been slowly learning my way around. Me, Nick, and Jean share on vehicle and since Nick doesn't live within walking distance of the school he usually has the car. But this weekend I got to drive around Kampala and do some last minute school shopping. Driving on the left isn't the tricky part here... the tricky part is not dying. But in all seriousness there are laws, but none of them are in place. It is normal to see cars passing uphill, stopping where ever they want, driving on the wrong side, you name it, they do it. The 'boda bodas' or motorcycles for hire are the craziest drivers so far though. I've yet to have to take a boda and my plan is to never have to, but you never know. I like motorcycles, but I also like not weaving in and out of traffic and obeying common courtesy laws.
I've now been to two of the churches that WGM has planted here in Kampala and the surrounding areas. The goal is so train Ugandans to be pastors, help them get their church started, and then for them to run everything on their own. It seems pretty successful so far. The Ugandan pastors that I've met are really nice and VERY welcoming. Of course I'm normally the only Muzungo in the service, along with whoever I came with, but I like it that way. We do a worship service here at the school on sunday evenings. It's open to everyone, but it seems like a very WGM populated group. This week Nick and I are leading worship, so I'm excited about that. I am so glad I decided to bring my guitar!
I've already been to the movie theatre here, but the only thing I wanted to see was the Dark Knight, which I'd seen before, but it was good. I've been to the mall and lots of little stores along the road called dukas. This past friday we went to "friday market" which is just an out door market where crafts, clothing, gifts, jewelry, and stuff like that is sold. It was a very cool experience. Of course I've had experience bartering from when I was in Mexico, but this was much more interactive and competitive.
I've not really had any feelings of homesickness yet, but I do sometimes feel like I'm missing a lot of stuff in the states. I don't like not being able to pick up my phone and talk to someone for an hour or two without it costing 60,000UGX, you know? But I'll survive. So what if I wake up at 5:30 am to talk to people, at least I get to hear your voices!
I wish I could box you all up and have you shipped to me because there's so much I want to show you and tell you about and I don't do any of it justice with my words.
Would you all be continually be praying for the field here in Uganda, specifically for our Kampala team. Pray for Heritage International School (HIS) as some roles are still not filled and the year is underway. Pray for teachers and students as we've already had a number of absences due to illness. Pray for the students to open their hearts and be willing to receive Christ for those that don't know Him, and for those that do that they would draw nearer to Him daily. Pray for Uganda. Pray for the people. I've never met people more kind and welcoming in my life. This is a beautiful place with it's orange/red dirt roads, random animals wandering the streets, and the sounds of children's laughter as they play games with an empty bottle in the street. For some this would be their worst nightmare... when the power goes out we have no hot water and our toilet doesn't flush, we will never have air conditioning in our apartment or the internet. We have to wash out clothes by hand, boil water just to brush our teeth. There are giant bugs creeping around everywhere. When we buy "fresh" fruit from the market we have to soak it in bleach water to kill the parasites and then let it air dry completely before consuming. Normal things like cheap shampoo are about 5 dollars for a small bottle. There is a mosquito net over my bed, and I can't go out after dark because of safety issues. But it's not a nightmare to me... it's actually beautiful. Of course there are comforts I miss, but there are also experiences to be had and I wouldn't want to stifle myself or my God by giving up or checking out.
I pray that you're blessed and encouraged by the things you've read. I pray that you would gain a little understanding of what I get to experience here and the ways that God is moving. He is here, He is big, and His plans are perfect. I take rest and comfort in that. Joshua 1:9 says, "Be strong and courageous. Do not be terrified; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you where ever you go." Thank God that He keeps His word. Thank God that He is with me here and also with you there. I love you all very much! Please keep me updated on your lives and let me know how I can be praying for you, k?
Love,
Chris
ps it's less than a dollar to send snail mail letters. (again, hint hint!)
Saturday, August 9, 2008
H.I.S.
Heritage International School. This is where I'm teaching 6th grade. This is a pic of the Admin building and part of the secondary classrooms.
Sunday, August 3, 2008
I have arrived!
Well all, I'm here in Kampala, Uganda. I arrived on Wednesday morning with no sleep, but got to take a short nap once I finally got into the city. After my nap I was shown around the area a bit by Lisa Fish, the VIA coordinator (aka my boss), and by my new roommate Jean. We went grocery shopping for our apartment and Lisa gave us some great tips on the better brands to buy. Even though I was on no sleep, it was helpful and I actual remember what she told us. So after shopping we had a prayer meeting with the other WGM missionaries, which is a weekly event. I got to meet everyone else on the field in Uganda right now, well except their kids. Most of the families have a couple of kids each.
So the next day one of the missionary family's the Bourne's were going on a trip to Buvuma Island on Lake Victoria (source of the Nile) to take pictures of the kids and orphans and also check out the school that WGM started. Lisa said now would be a good time to go with and check it out because we wouldn't have much opportunity aside from Christmas break because of school. So Jean and I joined the Bourne's and their two daughters at 6am on Thursday for a two hour car ride to Jinja to get to the shore, followed by a two hour boat ride to get out to the island. Lake Victoria is huge, about the size of South Carolina, and it also borders Kenya and Tanzania. We were very close to Kenya where we were at. It was a beautiful boat ride, but unfortunately we didn't get to see any crocs of hippos… I guess it's a good thing since our boat was small enough for a hippo to rip in half if we invaded it's space. From the shore of Jinja we got carried over the lake and put into the boat by some locals because it's too expensive to use the docks.
Anyways when we got to the island the kids from the village immediately swarmed us saying "Mzungu" over and over which of course means white person. They grabbed our hands and touched our skin. We had a hard time even walking from the boat to the school, which is right off the shore because the kids were so enthralled by us. It is a treat to see white people. We went right up to the school and looked around as the kids enjoyed some recess and gawking at the Mzungus. While Donna Bourne took pictures, Keith, Rachel, Hailey, Jean, and I were shown around the small village. Of course the kids were attached to us for the entire tour, but they were so sweet. We got to see the African Gospel Church that was planted there by WGM and pray with the pastor. For such a small impoverished village the morale was fairly high. These kids with their little potbellies from lack of food were some of the sweetest kids I've ever met. The village was a typical African village with mud huts for houses buildings. Farming is the way of life there.
So after a few hours we left, got back in the boat, road for two hours back to Jinja, and got to our van, which was having some major brake issues. So we took it to a local mechanic who fixed it (two hours later) with us still sitting in it. After it was fixed we made our way back into Kampala where the Kelley's (one of the other missionary families) had dinner prepared for Jean and I. It was a long day, but definitely worth it… seeing the Nile River was pretty sweet and being able to go to a village on my second day was amazing.
Yesterday was Friday and I had VIA orientation with Lisa in the morning, then I went to see HIS (Heritage International School) and my classroom, and then I had a financial orientation with the Kelley's, who are in charge of all of the finances for the field in Kampala. After a day of orientation the Bourne's took Jean and I out to dinner, which was fabulous.
So, so far so good. I'm learning a lot already, but am very overwhelmed by it all. I feel like it's going to be such a long time before I have a good grasp on things. I haven't really had time to be home sick yet, but today being Saturday, we are going to have lots of free time and I think it's all hitting me that I'm going to be here, and not there for a real long time. I don't have internet in my apartment and I don't think we're going to, so Skype is out of the question whenever I want. The Kelley's house has wireless and I'm allowed to use it to skype whenever, but it's weird to talk on the computer in front of other people. Luckily the school has internet, but I won't be there much until class starts. This next week we have orientation at school all week, but I imagine it will be a very busy time since I have no clue what I'm doing as a teacher. Apparently there is a website called pingo.com where you guys can buy a phone card to call me on my Uganda cell phone number for only 14 cents a minutes. I'm hoping that ya'll will go out and buy some time so we can talk for real cheap. Keep in mind that from the central time zone, I'm 8 hours ahead. So right now it's 10am here and 2am there. I'll always answer my phone, so call whenever.
011256 774326069 is the complete number to get out of US and into Uganda with my number.
My address here is:
Christina Maddalone
World Gospel Mission
0774326069
P.O. Box 11788
Kampala, UG
If you send a package (which would be amazing, hint hint!!) please keep in mind that you need to put it in an unmarked box with no price values written on the outside. You can write stuff like 'candy' or 'gifts' but nothing like 'cash' or '$150 donation'. Get my drift? Also, if you send a package, not an envelope please make sure to email the US Customs number so we can track the package if it gets lost. There's no way to track envelopes. Even if the post office tells you it will get to me in like 10 days, it will take at the very least 3 weeks. Sometimes 8 weeks.
Thanks for all your love, prayers, support, and encouragement! I hope to hear from you soon. As soon as I have internet more consistently I'll be better at keeping in touch. I'm praying for you
So the next day one of the missionary family's the Bourne's were going on a trip to Buvuma Island on Lake Victoria (source of the Nile) to take pictures of the kids and orphans and also check out the school that WGM started. Lisa said now would be a good time to go with and check it out because we wouldn't have much opportunity aside from Christmas break because of school. So Jean and I joined the Bourne's and their two daughters at 6am on Thursday for a two hour car ride to Jinja to get to the shore, followed by a two hour boat ride to get out to the island. Lake Victoria is huge, about the size of South Carolina, and it also borders Kenya and Tanzania. We were very close to Kenya where we were at. It was a beautiful boat ride, but unfortunately we didn't get to see any crocs of hippos… I guess it's a good thing since our boat was small enough for a hippo to rip in half if we invaded it's space. From the shore of Jinja we got carried over the lake and put into the boat by some locals because it's too expensive to use the docks.
Anyways when we got to the island the kids from the village immediately swarmed us saying "Mzungu" over and over which of course means white person. They grabbed our hands and touched our skin. We had a hard time even walking from the boat to the school, which is right off the shore because the kids were so enthralled by us. It is a treat to see white people. We went right up to the school and looked around as the kids enjoyed some recess and gawking at the Mzungus. While Donna Bourne took pictures, Keith, Rachel, Hailey, Jean, and I were shown around the small village. Of course the kids were attached to us for the entire tour, but they were so sweet. We got to see the African Gospel Church that was planted there by WGM and pray with the pastor. For such a small impoverished village the morale was fairly high. These kids with their little potbellies from lack of food were some of the sweetest kids I've ever met. The village was a typical African village with mud huts for houses buildings. Farming is the way of life there.
So after a few hours we left, got back in the boat, road for two hours back to Jinja, and got to our van, which was having some major brake issues. So we took it to a local mechanic who fixed it (two hours later) with us still sitting in it. After it was fixed we made our way back into Kampala where the Kelley's (one of the other missionary families) had dinner prepared for Jean and I. It was a long day, but definitely worth it… seeing the Nile River was pretty sweet and being able to go to a village on my second day was amazing.
Yesterday was Friday and I had VIA orientation with Lisa in the morning, then I went to see HIS (Heritage International School) and my classroom, and then I had a financial orientation with the Kelley's, who are in charge of all of the finances for the field in Kampala. After a day of orientation the Bourne's took Jean and I out to dinner, which was fabulous.
So, so far so good. I'm learning a lot already, but am very overwhelmed by it all. I feel like it's going to be such a long time before I have a good grasp on things. I haven't really had time to be home sick yet, but today being Saturday, we are going to have lots of free time and I think it's all hitting me that I'm going to be here, and not there for a real long time. I don't have internet in my apartment and I don't think we're going to, so Skype is out of the question whenever I want. The Kelley's house has wireless and I'm allowed to use it to skype whenever, but it's weird to talk on the computer in front of other people. Luckily the school has internet, but I won't be there much until class starts. This next week we have orientation at school all week, but I imagine it will be a very busy time since I have no clue what I'm doing as a teacher. Apparently there is a website called pingo.com where you guys can buy a phone card to call me on my Uganda cell phone number for only 14 cents a minutes. I'm hoping that ya'll will go out and buy some time so we can talk for real cheap. Keep in mind that from the central time zone, I'm 8 hours ahead. So right now it's 10am here and 2am there. I'll always answer my phone, so call whenever.
011256 774326069 is the complete number to get out of US and into Uganda with my number.
My address here is:
Christina Maddalone
World Gospel Mission
0774326069
P.O. Box 11788
Kampala, UG
If you send a package (which would be amazing, hint hint!!) please keep in mind that you need to put it in an unmarked box with no price values written on the outside. You can write stuff like 'candy' or 'gifts' but nothing like 'cash' or '$150 donation'. Get my drift? Also, if you send a package, not an envelope please make sure to email the US Customs number so we can track the package if it gets lost. There's no way to track envelopes. Even if the post office tells you it will get to me in like 10 days, it will take at the very least 3 weeks. Sometimes 8 weeks.
Thanks for all your love, prayers, support, and encouragement! I hope to hear from you soon. As soon as I have internet more consistently I'll be better at keeping in touch. I'm praying for you
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)