Hello all! This is Rachel. I think we’re starting to get used to life here in Uganda (sidenote-typing, at least on this computer, is a slow process because certain keys don’t type what they’re marked as…y and z are switched, comma=shift+bracket, quotations=shift+2. It’s like a treasure hunt =) another sidenote-I’m sitting in the internet cafe listening to “All Things Are Possible”)
Anzwaz, ahem…anyway, all three of our teams are settling into their routine. The Healthcare team decided to revamp the survey they’re using to assess the needs of the surrounding communities. They’re also continuing to take kids to the hospital and health clinic. Some of the kids they took on the first day are doing a lot better. Yesterday, Sandra, who is often bedridden, was actually jumping rope! And the little girl with the tear duct problem is looking a lot better as well.
The Income Generation team is still hard at work on the pigery, it should get finished today. This morning, the Education team taught small groups of young kids some phonics and read them some books.We also taught 10-11 yr olds some prepositions and verb conjugations. It looks like the education team will be teaching English lessons to both younger and older kids everyday from now on. The kids are eager to learn and pay attention better than most kids in the states.
I think we’re all falling in love with the people here, especially the kids. They are so so beautiful. Pray for these kids. Pray that God will guard their health, bless their studies, provide money for food and secondary school, give them jobs in the future, and draw them ever closer to Him. I wish you could see these kids worship at church. It makes me cry. (sidenote—i basically spend my days singing and clapping and dancing to song after song with the kids. They love “Deep, deep, whoa deep down down.”) God has blessed these kids with amazing joy and resilience and with wonderful, caring people here at STAO. Pray for the STAO staff as well. They are doing life-changing work.
Thank you all! It is such a blessing to know that we have a team of incredible people back home supporting us.
Love,
Rachel
PS. In case you’re wondering, after over a week in close quarters, all eleven of us still like one another. We’re having a great time studying the book of Luke in the morning and jamming on guitar and djembe at night. We’re also getting good at doing laundry by hand, sifting rocks out of rice, and sleeping through5am mooing, bleating, and cockle doodle doos =)
Comments
Rachel,,
I love your descriptions! Yes, I have been wondering how you were all getting along still! Glad it’s going well, Thanks for details of your daily life, those are really fun to read. I will be praying specifically for those things you requested prayer for.
RachO!
I’m glad that u and ur group still like each other and hope ur geting the DT u need but ya it’s awesome that the kids love to sing and dacne too!
I’ve been prayin for u every day and night that god will keep u safe and healthy and other stuff too =) i have to go but ya just wanted to comment u haha kk take care and come back safely and soon so u can tell me all about ur trip =) Miss ya girl =) God Bless!
may god be with u everyday
-AjSuga
Rachel,
Thanks for writing. It was really fun to read, & get a better sense of your life over there. I’m glad it’s going so well, & that the team is holding together. Sounds like everyone’s getting to use their gifts & passions to bless the people there & one another as well. Take care, and God bless you all.
Hi Rachel!
It’s so good to hear from you! I’m writing you an e-mail, so look for it! Thanks for all the little details of your blog… it’s evident that God is blessing and covering you all with HIs grace! You know, when someone you love cares for someone else, you care as well. You all are bringing these people of Uganda –by name– into our families and circles of care and prayer. Thanks for expanding our hearts as you allow God to expand yours. I love you and miss you! (your momma)
Hi Rachel!
I am glad to hear everything is going well for you guys! It’s a blessing to hear about all of the work you guys are doing for the kingdom. Keep us updated and I am really proud of you! Love you!
Love,
Jonathan
Good to hear from you Rachel
Days spent singing with the chlidren….that sounds like the most beautiful thing ever! They will never ever forget the songs and special time with you. You are giving them a gift that will continue long after you leave. So happy to know the team is well, praying and singing together….you are all awesome. All of you are in my prayers every day.
Hi Rachel,
Thanks for writing! I am so excited for you and your teammates. I am praying that you & the team will discover God in a more intimate & personal manner than ever before. May you see God’s hand as you serve Him. You are an example of Jesus’ great love.
You are doing an awesome work for the Lord… the people love the interaction w/ you.
God bless you. I can’t wait to hear what the Lord is doing..
Love, julie
Hi Rachael,
This is your Grandmother and Aunt Taye. We are all very proud of you and the good works your team is accomplishing.