A Renewal
Our final night in Kiburara was filled with emotion and gratitude. As dusk settled over the village, a crowd of friends and neighbors gathered for one last evening together at Pastor Moses’s home, where the warmth of woodsmoke mingled with laughter and heartfelt conversation. After a week and a day packed with activity, this farewell event made our last moments together truly special. Sharing stories and simple gestures around the dinner table seemed to make time stand still.
We looked back on God’s faithfulness over the last two years, remembering sweet moments and lessons learned. Pastor Ubaldo recalled a dream where we were sent back to Africa at US Customs, sparking laughter and smiles. It was a lighthearted reminder of the deep ties formed in our journey. There were speeches, songs, and prayers in two languages, acknowledging the ways our time in Uganda had shaped us and those around us. The entire evening celebrated what can happen when we say “YES” to wherever God leads us.
Although saying goodbye was bittersweet, it marked the beginning of a new chapter. We’re excited to announce our ongoing partnership with Sustainable Missions Inc. (SMI) and our intention to return in January. Now based back in the United States, we will continue to make regular visits (schedule to be determined) as we step into a co-leadership role alongside Okello, our partner at SMI. Our newly renovated home office in Kiburara stands ready for the next phase of work, built on the foundation of relationships forged in the village.
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SMI’s Ongoing Mission
SMI, a non-governmental organization founded in Kiburara in 2013, was established to collaborate with gospel-centered churches in Western Uganda. Its focus has always been on fostering sustainable spiritual, physical, and community growth. For years, SMI worked quietly but consistently, making a difference without drawing attention to itself. Below are some of its core initiatives.
Clean Water and Well Clubs
- Seventeen years ago, SMI and its partners drilled 18 borehole wells, providing clean water and transforming local communities. These wells significantly reduced disease and freed children from the burden of long journeys to fetch water. “Well Clubs” were set up in each village, such as the successful club in Rugarama led by Pastor Fred and overseen by Okello, SMI’s diligent administrator. These clubs continue to thrive, encouraging local stewardship and ownership.
The Goat Give Away Program
- To promote ongoing care for the wells, SMI started the Goat Give Away Program. Okello recognizes faithful community members with a goat—a reward worth about three months’ salary. This incentive encourages villagers to take responsibility for the upkeep of their wells and fosters a spirit of accountability and stewardship.
Empowering Widows: The Farm Program
- Partnering with Pastor Moses Nkwatsibwe of Covenant Global Ministries, SMI identifies widows in need. Those who work diligently for three years are granted ownership of ¾ of an acre of land. Last month, we celebrated with four widows as they received their very own land, marking a joyful milestone in their lives and the community.
Building for the Future: Sustainable Farming
- SMI is also investing in plantations on its own land to generate operational income and ensure long-term sustainability. Led by Okello and two hardworking employees, the farm promises to be more than just an income source—it will serve as a center for agricultural innovation, animal husbandry, vision trips, hospitality, and tourism, building resources for future generations.
Discipleship Training and Inductive Bible Study
- Our past two years have centered on spiritual growth through small group discipleship and Bible study, rather than large conferences or crusades. Regular weekly gatherings include Tuesday afternoon leadership training, Thursday night prison small groups, Friday afternoon baking clubs for women, and Saturday morning men’s meetings. These consistent, intimate gatherings have cultivated deep spiritual roots and strong community bonds.
Not an Ending, but a Renewal
Saying goodbye in Kiburara was hard because of the depth of our relationships there. But this is not an ending—it is a renewal. The sights and sounds of village life—children’s laughter, rain drumming on tin roofs, dawn breaking on the equator—remain etched in our hearts.
We carry Africa’s gifts with us: a deeper faith, a stronger marriage, daily gratitude, contentment, and an appreciation for God’s creation. These lessons will continue to guide our work with SMI and our vision for the future.
Thank you for your financial, emotional, and prayer support over the last two years—you have been a source of strength and joy. We will need you moving forward.
As we are transitioning with our partnership with SMI, we invite you to join us in this new phase. The story begun two years ago continues, with hope and grace, as we look to return and serve God’s purposes in Uganda once more.
Though our time living in Uganda has concluded for now, the relationships and lessons remain woven into many lives. We are deeply grateful, and we look forward to all that is yet to come.
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