Natasha's News

Be of good courage, and He shall strengthen your heart, all you who hope in the LORD. (Psalm 31:24)

Dear All,

Last June we said farewell to Uganda, having completed our first year of serving at African Bible University (ABU), and travelled home to the UK for the summer. In some ways it was an effort to leave, we had just begun to settle into our home and adjust in a small way to the culture around us. In other ways we were greatly looking forward to seeing family, friends and CPC. So with some mixed feelings we boarded the plane for the eight and half hour flight back to London.

Our summer was such a blessing to us. God used the time to encourage us, mainly through his many saints, whom we met whilst deputising, but also through our families who took good care of us. God truly used His Church to confirm His calling on our lives, and gave us strength to return and continue in His service. We visited many churches, who showed such love and interest in ABU, that our hearts were renewed. Praise God for the encouragement of His people. Special thanks go to Hilary and the Hayletts, whose hospitality was a rich blessing, especially when Sean suffered his heart attack (which he has now fully recovered from).

After spending ten weeks in the UK, we had easily re-acclimatised to western life, and so when it came to leaving, all the mixed feelings flooded back. Please pray for us as we adjust to having two totally different homes for the foreseeable future.

It's now been two months since we arrived back in Kampala and began our second academic year at ABU. Sean is teaching English, World History, Sports, Foundations of Curriculum Development, and Open Air Evangelism this semester. I am teaching Library Orientation and Home Economics, supporting three faculty children with science and maths, as well as taking on the role of Quality Assurance Manager. Please pray for us, as we seek to fulfil these roles to the best of our ability whilst showing grace. Only that which is done for the LORD will stand.

Last weekend we had the privilege of returning to Masaba Grace Missions Church. It is a village church in Eastern Uganda, close to the Kenyan border. Sean had been invited to preach around five months ago, and whilst there, the church had shared some of their needs, one of which was the repair of the community water pump. God heard the prayers of His people in Masaba, and saw fit to use friends back home to meet the needs of the church, and display His love.

Whoever is kind to the poor lends to the Lord, and he will  reward them for what they have done. (Proverbs 19:17)

So, Sean and I, along with Fred (an ABU student), travelled back to Masaba to oversee the repair work and serve the Church on the Sunday. I wish you all could have been there to see the tears in a grown man's eyes, and the joy of God's people as they saw their heavenly Father providing for their basic needs. They sang and danced with hearts bursting, their God had not forgotten them. Sean preached on the living water that only Jesus gives, reminding the people that only those who drink of that water will never thirst. Please keep this church in your prayers, especially that the Gospel would be faithfully preached, Sunday by Sunday, and that God's people would live holy lives.

Recently I have been working hard to fulfil my new role as Quality Assurance Manager. We have been told that the National Council of Higher Education (NCHE) will be visiting our campus on Friday 14th November. They will assess ABU with a view to granting our Charter. Please pray for us all as we seek to get everything ready for their visit. Please pray that the Lord would be our helper, that His name would be glorified, and we would be granted the charter so that His gospel may be preached to all nations.

Please pray that God would give us grace to live for Him and to teach for Him. There can be lots of little discouragements that come at once and make you doubt yourself, please pray that we would fix our eyes on Christ and trust Him for everything.

We have such fond memories of you all, thank you for standing with us.

God Bless,

Natasha

Sean preaching, as the workmen are fixing!

The well is 27 metres deep, so nine lengths of durable pipe were installed.

                           Everyone was happy, praising God for what He had done!

On the Sunday, everyone came out for the Grand  Opening Ceremony!

Sean got to cut the ‘ribbon’...Whilst Natasha acted out his sermon, 

‘A woman, a well, and living water!’

Lunch was served!

…and a packed lunch given for the journey home (one of which, we’ll be eating this weekend)!

Christmas in Kajjansi – 4th December 2014

Now if you were expecting snowy scenes or tinseled trees, I’m very sorry!  It’s too hot for snow, and tinsel won’t bring in the dough!  So, for many here in Uganda, it’s business as usual – though most are hoping sales will improve as the BIG DAY draws nearer!

For the students of African Bible University, it’s the last outreach Thursday of the year, so the turnout was good.  That might be because many of them have Christmas shopping to do, as well, but I wouldn't hold that against them!

A good sing-song! (Alimo Agnes is wearing the pink blouse)

You might have noticed that numbers seem lower this year, compared to last, and you’d be right.  There are quite a few different outreach programs for students to choose from, and although we had many Third Year students with us last year (who are now Seniors and exempt from outreach), the intake of First Years did not match them in number – so we are now a smaller, but tighter group.   Most of the First and Second Years are from the Lira and Kitgum areas of Northern Uganda, where the Lord’s Resistance Army (LRA) were prevalent for the last two decades.  Indeed, one of the ladies, Alimo Agnes, was twice shot by them (one bullet skimming her nose), and left for dead!  Praise God she is with us today, for she has such a godly testimony, and desire to serve the Lord.

As usual, we started with singing and praising.  We sang the African version of ‘Let it Be’, one of my favourites, and a few other tunes.  Then Frank got up to preach, by which time, we had moved down the hill, to our usual spot, to preach the Christmas message.

A  view of who we are, what we do and where we do it! 

The message this time was ‘What are You doing this Christmas?’, and it highlights the excuses many in the Christmas narrative had, for not worshipping Jesus - mirroring the same excuses today:  Too busy (inn-keeper); too familiar (people of Jerusalem); too hard (Priests and Scribes); too religious (Romans); too late (King Herod).  I then contrasted these people with the shepherds and Wise Men, who worshipped Jesus.

             

Same finger in the air, same big mouth, different translators:

Magala Paul and Nazziwa Rosemary.

The translating was covered by Magala Paul (Fourth Year), and then Nazziwa Rosemary (First Year).  One of the usual hearers was impressed with Rosemary’s efforts, and sought her out to talk to after – so that was a bonus.  And while Okello Charles Oyuku kept watch of the board, he also had the opportunity to share the gospel with some young lads.  Many more stopped for a while to hear the gospel message, and many were challenged over the excuses they have been using.  Please pray that souls will be saved, and not lost, for eternity!

                                      

        

Vespa owner Kevin trying to convince me to buy his Vespa (like pushing on an open door!), whilst I convince him of his need to be saved; the lady was not happy having her photograph taken, but was very happy to talk to Rosemary!;  and a young Muslim refusing to talk or take my hand of friendship!

We then spent some time talking and praying with the locals, and introducing ourselves to a few new faces.  Then, as we were packing up, a group of youngsters came up to the board and started looking at the pictures and reading the captions.  Among them were Emma, who said she went to church, but didn’t feel she knew God!  A good conversation followed, where Emma was reminded that God speaks to us through the Bible, and delights to hear us when we pray.  She (or he, as Emma is usually short for Emmanuel) seemed content to start regularly reading her Bible.  Then Ivan told us that he was a Christian, and that Jesus had come into the world to save people from their sins – and had saved him.  His testimony was clear, confident and very encouraging.  Charles and I were taken aback at his boldness, but praised God for His grace, mercy and kindness to Ivan.  Ivan told us that God had helped him in his school work, and that he had finished top of the class - something we were not surprised to hear!  He then asked us if we would pray for his sick mother at home (I think her name was Aunt Mary-Ann), of which we were most pleased to be able to do.  He was such an encouragement.

                

Sudanese Emma and her friends discuss the contents of the board; Okello Charles Oyuku shares the gospel with two young lads.

I linked up with Bonny (and met his wife, Mary!) and Geoffrey, Peruth and her sick (still!) friend, who really is a frail thing, Annette (who ignored me this time, as she was with someone who seemed reluctant to get into conversation), and Stephen, who said (like the inn-keeper) he was too busy!  Please pray for them all, as I do not doubt the gospel is having an effect upon them, but whether to life or death, is another, more urgent matter.

Many thanks, and blessings,

Sean

Young and precocious Ivan looks up at me, whilst I looked up to him – the highlight of our day!

Meeting Bonny’s wife, Mary, for the first time was another highlight.  He even said he would bring her to church!  Please pray he does!

Some Old, and New Faces

After missing last Thursday, it was seemed a challenge to find the motivation to go to Kajjansi, this week, but I’m glad I did.  Open Air work can be tiring and when it’s hot, it can sap your energy.  The apathy of some, and the open hostility of others, can be very discouraging, but in some ways, that is our lot, and the challenge we must all overcome, in these latter days.  Also, the team has lost a few members, now, as many from last year are in their fourth year, and do not always have time for outreach.  Other valuable former members have also been poached by other outreach teams, so we are blooding in valuable newcomers – who I will introduce as we go.

The ‘new core’:  Adima James (2^nd Year), Ssendikaddiwa Frank (3^rd Year), Tembo Emmanuel, Alimo Agnes, Otim Fred (1^st Years), Nyirenda Naomie (3^rd Year), Apilli Eunice (2^nd Year), Kamlopa Chisomo (3^rd Year), me, Ocen Francis and Okello James Murphy (1^st Years) just out of sight!

The singing now seems to be led by Apilli Eunice.  She has certainly got the voice for it, and the enthusiasm.  I know that many of the songs might seem simplistic and repetitive, but frankly, I’m glad, as I wouldn’t be able to join in – me, and many others!  And it is always so encouraging to see the market traders joining in, too.

Then, James, the new leader of Team Kajjansi, gave testimony of how God had saved him from a life of selfishness and self-pleasing, to a life of service to God and his fellow man.  He mentioned his love of discotheques and how he has given them up, but the dancing, he still does, for the Lord.

Mulyampiti David being introduced to the people of Kajjansi.  He had never interpreted before, but the Lord was very helpful to him, and me.

When we moved down the hill to preach, Bongomin Ben was on camera, so the team with me was made up of First Years: James Murphy (yes, honestly), Emma (short for Emmanuel), Francis and David.  David had never interpreted before, but he did a very good job for his first attempt – with much help from the Lord!  The ‘lads’ then joined me as we sought to make conversations and contacts with our busy listeners.

Some people just insist on being polite and friendly…even if you are in the middle of something important!

It was great to see Bonny again, and Geoffrey.  Both insist they want to come to church (Geoffrey says he is going as often as he can), and Bonny says he will see me Sunday.  When I told them, my many friends (!!!) back home were praying for them, they seemed very touched by this…as were Stephen, William, Fiona and Peruth – more regulars.  David managed a short conversation with the lady whose name no-one can work out, and I spoke to Annette, who asked if I would pray for her.  Sometimes when I’m asked to do this, I’m concerned that they want me to pray, and not one of the African students.  I remind them that I am not magic, nor more effective, but still, am glad they are bold enough to ask in public – and that God has given me much liberty.

  

Robert’s smile, Stephen’s words, and Annette’s prayer request were a great encouragement to me today.

It was great chatting to Bonny, again, and his customer, the lady in red, also asked, ‘What church do you go?           Where is it?’

On the way back to our taxi, I bumped into Swahib Sali, the Muslim young man who I met last year, and who featured in our ABU presentations, back in England.  In contrast to the chilly reception we received last time, Sali seemed genuinely pleased to see me – though he tried not to show it to those around him (or the camera).  For me, it was a kind of confirmation that last time’s prayers were answered, regarding hostile Muslims, but also, that this is a good work to persevere with, and the right place to be.

Swahib Sali, hiding from the camera – and the taxi we use, there and back!

So until next time, thank you for all your prayers and encouragements.  Please continue to remember our regular and new listeners, and pray for our diminished team – especially the newbies!

Many blessings to you all,

Sean

From Kajjansi to Calvary!

Yes, friends, we are back in sunny Uganda.  The doctor has given me a clean bill of health (to my American friends, that means I’m fit – he didn’t give me a bill, because we have the National Health Service, to which I am eternally grateful!), we have installed an exercise bike in the spare room, and besides, God and I have unfinished business in Uganda!

So, part of being back, is being part of the Kajjansi student outreach team.  And last Thursday, was the first time the students were out, so naturally, I accompanied them.  I still don’t know all the songs they sing, but I am slowly getting used to clapping my hands and dancing (well, it’s more of a shuffle really – but a cool shuffle, at that!).

After the usual song and dance warm-up act, led by second year student, Eunice, Frank introduced new boy/man Vincent to the listeners, who shared his testimony, as I interviewed him.

Then, a few of us headed down the hill, to our usual spot, opposite the clinic, to preach the gospel.  New boy David was official board-holder (easel, for short), Paul Magala our translator, and Ben Bongomin, official photographer.  The message was all about ‘Who Will Help You?’, and lists sources like the government, banks, NGO’s, family, the witchdoctor, and religion, with the conclusion being, only God will supply your every need, according to His riches, in Christ Jesus.

Many of our usual listeners were there, and seemed glad to have the gospel preached again, in Kajjansi, but the Muslim contingent certainly didn’t seem so happy.  Their faces were hard to me, and ignored any efforts of mine to make conversation.  With many issues going on around the world, and in Africa, involving Muslims, I will try to ignore them and preach Christ, and Him crucified, only.  But pray for them, and us, as we continue with the business of winning souls.

      

It was great to see, and pray with Geoffrey, Agnes and Fiona again.

  

‘Me old cobbler’, Stephen, woke up especially for me, but this lady, who was seriously ill, could only manage a smile, as we prayed for her.

New boy, David Mulyampiti, had a very encouraging conversation with ‘Barbaretti’, who requested we pray for her.

On Sunday afternoon, I was invited to Calvary Chapel, Entebbe, to speak to the Youth about Sports Ministry.  Frank and Joseph , who often come to Kajjansi attend this church, and asked if I could be their guest speaker.

         

I chose to speak on the subject, ‘Win or lose, it’s all the same’, and focused on three particular verses:  Proverbs 11:30, ‘He that wins souls is wise’; Luke 9:25, ‘What does it profit a man, if he gain the whole world but lose his own soul’; and Philippians 3: 10, ‘My goal is to know Him and the power of His resurrection’.  The message seemed to be appreciated, but not as much as the volleyball game after, I think! 

The children come from very poor homes, but spend all day at the church, where they know they will find love, kindness, and forgiveness of sin, through Christ Jesus.





And so to today, Monday.  I joined the girls at Rounders, and after a run of three ‘golden ducks’, got my mojo back, and scored four rounders!  The girls, here, can throw a ball pretty well, so I had to do plenty of running.  It was hot, humid and at high altitude, but praise God, I had the heart (and stents) for it!

So until next time, keep praying, and many thanks.

Sean

Graduation, Busia, and some Summer dates

So (i), our first year in Uganda is as good as done.  In less than 24 hours, our bags will be packed in the car and we will be on our way to the airport, and then, Blighty!  So (ii), why haven’t I blogged for a while?  Well, there has been no Kajjansi ministry for a few weeks, then there was Graduation, and after that, exams and marking (grading, as they call it here!).  So (iii), here is a pictorial account of the recent weeks :

Senior Banquet (May 28th)

 

Me and Alfred, who I taught on our visit, in 2011; Natasha, me, and Maggie McLinden, our guest Music and Literature teacher; Marlene Schimke, teacher of Speech Communication

         

…with Alfred, Job Mike, Esther Tschappler, Dennis Kalunge, Rebekah Agwang; and again with Garnet Kibongwe

Graduation Day (May 31^st)

       

  

Providence, Angel, Rebeka, Rebekah, Deborah; me presenting the gifts, with Joanna and Palmer Robertson, and Charles Mugasha

  

   

Before and after the ceremony

Then the best bit…eating, with our good friend and neighbour, Bentry Mhango

A great day for students and faculty, alike!

A visit to Busia June 7^th-8^th

Back in April, one of our Second Year students, Ginda Fred, asked Natasha and I if we would visit his village church, in the holidays, and preach for them.  We thought it would a good opportunity to share the gospel, to promote the university, and to see a bit more of Uganda…it was also an opportunity to give our new (1995) Rav4 a good run out!

By the time we left Kampala, Natasha was booked to lead the Ladies’ Bible Study, I was booked to lead the Men’s Bible Study, and then to preach in the Sunday service. 

The journey there took 5 hours, and when we arrived (on the Saturday afternoon), we were introduced to the church…which took an hour and a half…and then feasted, on chicken, fish, rice, and other stuff!  It was really humbling to be treated so kindly and affectionately…from people who have so little.

  

The church notice-board requires a bit of touching-up, but the main building is progressing well.

  

After being serenaded by the choir, and warmly welcomed, we were introduced again, to the church The service started around 10.00am.

     

Then there was a lot of praying and singing

 

The children all sat listening and marvelling at everything (most had never seen a Mzungu – white person before!), and some even sang and danced (here they are lining up ready for their moment.

  

So, by midday, I was leading the Men’s Bible Study (based on lessons from Moses’ ministry, in Exodus 17, 18 & 19) and Natasha was leading the Ladies (from Titus).  Little did we know that we would conclude the studies with tricky Q & A sessions. 

Then, after more singing and dancing, I preached in the main service (around 1.10pm)

  
  

So, when the service finished (around 2.00pm!), we were well fed again, and shown around the grounds.  Fred Ginda stands on the far left, by the church water pump.  The pump is temporarily out of order, as it needs plastic pipes fitting (the metal ones corroded!).  The pump would allow the church to finish their building project, supply two local schools with fresh water, and save the locals a 4km walk to the next nearest pump.  New pipes and labour will cost £125.00 – an awful lot of money for such a poor church.  After the tour, the children (many still wary of us, some still terrified,) all came to see us off (around 3.30).

It was the end of a wonderful, yet exhausting weekend.  Praise God for the work He is doing in the far corners of His vineyard.  Praise Him for the faithfulness of the Elders and Pastor, as they seek to overcome the challenges of polygamy, Islam and witchcraft (as well as all the other stuff all church leaders have to deal with)!  Pray for the women (and men) who are locked in polygamous marriages.  Pray for the children, many uncertain of their future, unschooled and most unloved.  Pray for the pump situation.  Pray for Fred, who really has a heart after the Lord, who loves serving the church, loves working with the Youth, and who still has two years of study ahead of him…the Lord will surely use this very willing and able young man.

Dates for your diary (D.V.)

June 14^th – Back to Britain

June 19^th – Cambridge Presbyterian Church midweek meeting

June 22^nd - Cambridge Presbyterian Church (both Sunday Services)

June 26^th - Cambridge Presbyterian Church midweek meeting

June 29^th – Norwich Evangelical Church (Preaching am; speaking pm)

July 2^nd – Harrold & Carlton Grace Baptist Church midweek meeting (Leading meeting)

July 4^th – Sister Julie’s wedding to Donny Calder

July 6^th – Holbrooks Evangelical Church, Coventry (Preaching in both Sunday Services)

July 10^th - Cambridge Presbyterian Church midweek meeting

July 13^th - Cambridge Presbyterian Church (both Sunday Services)

July 17^th - Cambridge Presbyterian Church midweek meeting

July 20^th - Cambridge Presbyterian Church (both Sunday Services)

July 22^nd – Ebenezer Baptist Church, Chester midweek meeting (Leading meeting)

July 23^rd-27^th – Open Air Mission in Newquay, Cornwall

July 27^th – Carnell Green Church (Speaking after morning service)

August 9^th-16^th EMW Conference, Aberystwyth

August 26^th – Return to Uganda

If your church is not featured here, and/or you would like us to visit you, please let us know.  We’d be only too happy to add you to our list!  So until then, please pray for us, our plans, our speaking, and my preaching.  Pray God will bless all we do, all our travelling, all our visiting, and our time with family and friends.

Thanking you, in His name,

Sean and Natasha