More on our trip!

We went so many places and loved so many children but there were some very special people that God specifically placed on our hearts. So I wanted to share a bit more specifically on who truly captured our hearts on this trip.

Right at the beginning of the trip God brought us to an amazing ministry in Uganda. We were welcomed with such love and hospitality both from the ministry leaders and the children. "Return Ministries" seeks to care for the orphaned children in their area by placing them in homes within the community. They have about 150 children under their care that they work tirelessly to understand their background, care for their needs, feed them and teach them. As of right now, they are renting so much space for the their housing and church property. But because of the consistent need to pay rent on a monthly basis so much of the funds has to be used to sustain the ministry rather than giving where it is needed most ... in caring for the children. Their goal is to raise money so that they can purchase land so that they can build a community center. That way, they are no longer burdened by monthly rent and can use donated money for the children's school fees, clothing, medical bills, food and more! If you are interested in learning more about their ministry or donating towards their goal of purchasing land, please visit their website at http://www.returnministriesuganda.org/

Sarah and Samuel

founders of "Return Ministries"

At return ministries there was a specific girl who truly captured my heart. I only spent a few days with her but I did grow to love her deeply. Her name was "Valely"! She immediately ran to me from the moment she saw me and she barely left my side for 2 days. During that time we really took care of each other in little ways! We really grew a special connection and I could easily pick her out of crowd of 300 children. I will miss her dearly and pray that I will see her again one day!

Valely and I

While in Kenya at one of the orphanages there was a little boy who immediately ran and clung to me. His name is Moses! He was so impressed that I was able to speak some Swahili that he immediately ran and told some of his friends. He couldn't believe that a Mzunge (white person) could speak some of their language. He grew so dear to my heart during those days at the orphanage... he became a true friend!

Moses and I

And then there was Pauline at Amazing Grace children's home! Wow! She was so precious! I immediately felt a connection with her and was drawn to her sweet spirit. She was so thankful that we were there to visit them. When we handed her a small coloring book with 4 crayons she was the one who looked at me and asked, 

"Is this for me?!" 

I said, "Yes, just for you". 

She then responded... "Wow, it's BEAUTIFUL!!!"

She taught me something profound in that moment... What may seem insignificant and small to us could mean the world to an orphaned child. It doesn't take much to show them love and value. She taught me to be thankful for everything... no matter how big or small!

Pauline and I