This is an amazing place------of hatred, death, anguish, peace, forgiveness and God. Many of us broken---- again reassembled by Him. On our way home with missing pieces but ready and convicted . Will have new team members. Been praying for the Crossing. Ready to come home!! Leaving Conner here....NOT.

Ian

Today was Compassion Day! We started the day by having breakfast with our sponsored children. We then went to a soccer field and played a game with them. We exchanged gifts, threw frisbees, and ended up having an amazing soccer match against a local high school team. It was a blast! We 'won' 6-4 but I think that they were being nice to us! The coolest thing is that the team was able to bring 8 suitcases full of balls, cleats and uniforms, to leave with our church partner, to distribute throughout the area.

While we were playing the soccer game, the rest of our team was having a great time playing and connecting with their sponsored children and others in the community.

After lunch, we went to the Child Survival Program that our church has sponsored for the last 4 years, through Compassion. We were warmly and loudly welcomed by dancing mothers and children! We received a report and update on all that God is doing at the Center. I am telling you--- this place is amazing! It is all about empowering the people in this area. This is our third fourth visit here and we have seen the impact that just continues to multiply. After being taught nutrition, health and child-rearing ideas, the Center's mothers then go out into the community and share all they are learning. We had an awesome 4 hours there!

When we returned to the Riverside Hotel, Bishop Edward and Mama Vasta were there. We had a sweet time! The rest of the eveningwas spent with them, with our sponsored children and with the 5 LDP students who came with us.

God is doing an amazing work through Compassion! From the Child Survival Program, to the Child Development Centers, to the Leadership Development Program. They are indeed freeing children from poverty in Jesus name and empowering them to impact their nation. I can not think of a stronger partner to work with than Compassion! We have been so blessed by their staff, ministry and our partnership. We can't wait to share all the details of our time with the kids and this trip with you all.

Tomorrow we leave Rukingiri and head south to Kigali before starting the trek home on Wed. Please keep praying for us. Pray that the team will remain as strong and awesome as it has been thus far. We love you all.

Ian

Hello all!

I just posted again on the blog with a Sunday update from Ian.

He mentions Ezra. I must tell you that Ezra is a shining example of God's love,
strength and capacity to heal some very BIG hurts and losses. He and his family
are also an amazing example of the work that Mosaic Vision Ministries, one of
our partners in Uganda is doing.

I have met Ezra and he is a great young man, so full of God's love. He is caring
for his entire family and has such a happy heart, filled with the love of
Christ. On my last trip there, he wrote a song for our team and his sisters and
brothers sang it for us. His leadership of the family was inspiring and I could
see the light of Christ in this young man.

I hope some day that more of you are able to meet him as well as all of the
other amazing children there!

Please remember to put the Uganda Celebration Night on you calendars so that you
can hear the stories and see what your loved ones did there. We will have
dessert and a Ugandan marketplace as well as photos and music. July 30th, 7-9 at
the Crossing. I will attach the flier in my next e-mail so that you have all of
the details. Come out and support the team and the work that the Crossing is
doing in Uganda! Besides, I want to meet you all!

Take care and keep up the prayers! The team leaves Rukingiri soon and has ahead
of them the journey back to Rwanda. Pray for their safe travel and their
continued strength. Also, pray for those left behind, the children and the
workers there, that they be filled from the visit and that they can carry on in
their work there knowing that our church is behind them, praying for and loving
them!

Thanks

Kelly Boaitey

The LDP team left Kasese after church today and after 3 1/2 hours on the road, we arrived at the Hotel Riverside. We by chance, arrived at the same time as all of the Compassion children that will be meeting their sponsors on the team!

How fun it was to reconnect as team, as well as getting to meet up with our Compassion kids, many for the first time.

Meanwhile the team that was in Rukungiri went to church in Kiyaga, where Ezra, one of the Mosaic children lives. John preached on the Good Samaritan and was received well by the congregation. After church, the team went to Ezra's house for lunch and the blessing of his family's new home. Mosaic built the house for this family of 7 orphans after their old one was about to collapse. They have an amazing story of how God provided for them through extended family and neighbors.

Ian

In Kasese today, we spent the day finishing up a few things. First, we finished the second house that we built from the ground up with the students. Megan painted in a children's room at the Child Survival Program and we then had the closing ceremonies at the camp. The first part of the ceremony was very serious, with the local member of Parliament, the bishop in this area and the Minister of defense here to celebrate this work camp and all that has been done here. It really was amazing. These students truly are the future of this country. The minister of defense laid down a powerful challenge to the students and then invited them to his home tomorrow night, for dinner and to talk some more about their futures.

The second half of the closing ceremony was much more fun, with singing and lots of dancing. We all shared with the students and Steve led in a great closing where we gave them each a Stand Up, Stand Out bracelet. They exchanged them and affirmed each other. It was a powerful time. The time spent here has been a huge blessing to the students, to our team, to the community and to the Ugandan Compassion staff. It has not been easy. It is very hard work and the living conditions were very basic, tent camping. One of the compassion staff got malaria and another is sick as well. But, 500 people have come to know Christ; Four families have been blessed by having us either build them a home or repair their existing home; the local church now has a cement floor; the local Child Development Center has a new brick building and hundreds of high school students have been inspirrd to live a life of sexual purity. People all over this land have been encouraged just because we showed up.

Thank you all for praying us through it!

Tomorrow after church, we go to meet up with the rest of the team in Rukingiri.

Ian

In Kesese today, right after morning glory at 6:30, our team of five and about 10 of the Leadership Development Students set off on an adventure! We took a ride, just down the road from where our camp, to see if we could find some animals in the Queen Elizabeth National Park. God really blessed us! We saw gazelle , Ugandan cobb, wart hogs, water buffalo and hippos. The most awesome thing though was a huge bull elephant. He put on a show for us, extending up full length with his trunk to rip down a big branch and then proceeded to eat it. It was amazing!!!

We then went to dedicate a water project which was constructed by Compassion International, to service 3000 people. The dancing, the celebrating, the singing and the sharing about how this project will impact lives was incredible!!! The drums, a HUGE xylophone made out of wood, the colors and the joy of the dancing was so strong. I was waiting for the roof to blow off!

Another cool thing that happened today was that Cathy found out that one of the girls here who is studyng law (Cathy is a lawyer and a law professor) needs a sponsor. Cathy immediately said she would sponsor her. I can't wait to see how it goes when Cathy is able to tell her tomorrow that she will be doing that. Sponsors mean the world to these students. I have watched tears roll down the faces of these dynamic young leaders, who have made the great journey out of poverty, as they express their appreciation for their sponsors. Cathy has made an incredible investment.

At the last crusade tonight, 30 adults, 14 youth and a number of children accepted Christ. It has been an amazing time with these students. We have captured some of their stories on video and will send them out when we get back.

Tomorrow, we visit some of the Child Development Centers in this area and have the closing ceremony at camp. So much has been accomplished.

I have not been able to contact Keri and the gang in Rukingiri tonight but I know they were doing a work project all day today. They were working with people from the local church to build a structure that will have 3 rooms. One will serve as a kitchen, one a store room and the other will be a bathing room. I am sure they are tired tonight. I can't wait to reconnect with them on Sunday.

Please keep on praying for our emotional, spiritual and physical strength as we continue giving, serving and doing all we can to show and share God's love here in Uganda.

In His strength,

Ian

Hello all!

Today, the team in Rukingiri got a full update and report from the local staff leader from Mosaic Vision Ministries, named Martin. He gave an update on each child in the Mosaic program. They also went to the health clinic that our church is trying to help upgrade to a point that it can be given 'hospital status' status by the government. That would then mean that the hospital would get a government assigned doctor. Also, while there, Trudy prayed over the sick. The team was also told that unfortunately, the hospital equipment sent by Mosaic is still in transit from Kenya. They did not have heavy day of activity so that they can be prepared for their build project on Friday.

In Kasese, Pete found himself working in the kitchen all day, helping to prepare all of the meals. Megan captured 8 different testimonies from the students and we can' t wait to post them so that you can hear how God is working here. Steve and Cathy were in the community, helping to complete homes that some of the LDP students have been building for the past several days. I (Ian) helped finish the big concrete job at the church and this evening, spoke at the crusade this evening where we had another huge turn out! The amazing thing here is the depth, maturity and vision of the LDP students. Each morning at morning glory, as they worship and pray, it is so powerful to watch them express their love for God and call out for Him to impact their lives and their land. I tell you, God is hearing them and working in amazing ways.

It's late and I am tired, so I'll send another update tomorrow. Have a great day!

Ian

God is doing so much through our team here in Uganda. Where do I begin?

I will start in Rukingiri.

1. Today J. Michael, Freeman and John met with three Local Ugandans who have some recovery. They had a great time sharing stories together. Our team provided them with some resources and ideas that they can use to get a recovery group started in this area, where there is currently nothing for people struggling in addiction. Oh, and by the way, Somer and Brynn will be leading the first ever woman AA meeting in Rukingiri tomorrow. Yeah God!!!
2. Patrick made amazing strides with the schools today, forging a mission statement and agreement on how his school in Costa Mesa will connect with the children here in Uganda.
3. Our team of ladies met with about 50 leadership women from the local churches and had a powerful time, with testimonies being shared by both our team and the Ugandan women. Keri, Jennifer S. and Terrilee shared from our team and Janice sang an amazing solo. God clearly worked in them!!!

In Kasese, once again, much was accomplished. Megan and Cathy each went out into the community to work on some local homes after which Meg went with the LDP students to do sexual purity talks in the schools. Megan was able to share her experience and views as well. Steve, Pete and I stayed behind and worked on putting a cement food storage area in the church connected to the Compassion project . At the crusade tonight, more people accepted Christ. I was told that since we have come, 456 people have made decisions for Christ. Tomorrow night I will be speaking at the crusade, so please pray for me. I can't explain how powerful it is to hear these students stories and just be with them in all this. God is doing great things. We all feel so honored to be a part of it. We are going to capture some stories and post them when we get back. You will not want to miss them!!!

Have a great day and thanks again for your prayers.

Ian

Hi,

It is Megan Stevenson here! I just wanted to tell you about my day and what's been going on for me.

Today I got a chance to work in the kitchen at the worksite. At first it was a bit of a challenge because obviously, I do not know anything about cooking Ugandan food, but the students taught me so much. My friend Oshima cut tons of onions, peppers, tomatoes, cabbage and potatoes with me. My friend Diana showed me how to make Ugandan rice.
Some of the boys started slaughtering chickens and showed me the ovaries and intestines and waste sack and heart. They told me they needed 20 chickens for dinner and they wanted me to slaughter one. I was nervous at first but I just grabbed the wings and named my chicken Maria. We were waiting for Maria's turn to be cut up when a headless chicken got loose and was running around.
Now, of course, a chicken running around with no head would scare anyone. As I screamed and jumped back, everyone laughed at me. But, it was now Maria's turn. Benen stepped on it for me as I sawed off the head. Poor Maria! She flailed around as I cut through her neck, but it was over quick. It was a very exciting moment, and day, as a whole. I have learned so much from all these students in just two days. I can't wait to experience more amazing times these next days and witness the incredible work that God is doing in our lives, as well the lives of the people here.

Megan Stevenson

From Ian:

Good news! Cathy and Steve Cooper got back into camp today. Cathy is not sure if it was the ice cubes but she Is back to her cheerful, friendly self.

We finished working on two houses in the village with the LDP students. we also went to local high schools to talk about sexual purity. What a powerful time! At the crusade tonight, about 150 people accepted Christ. I'm telling you---- these sponsored students would blow you away! God has so transformed their lives and they are now mighty agents of change. God is using them in powerful ways! We are so honored to be in this with them .

Ian talked to the Rukingiri crew today. Keri says everyone, and she means everyone has been changed! Freeman met a little boy at the school today whose name is also Freeman and who has captured his heart. John met a mosaic boy who also captured his heart. Patrick took his team to the schools today and is making an impact and building a relationship with them. Somer, Brynn, and Janice are up for everything and as 'first timers', are being impacted by all they see. God is working powerfully through Trudy as people come out of the woodwork to be prayed for.
They had a big reception dinner at Bishop Edward and Vasta's place tonight and Keri says every single day God has shown up and is clearly working in and through each person on this team. Thanks for your prayers folks! They are clearly making a difference. Without you all this would not be possible. God is so good.

We love you all and I know that it is hard for you all to understand, but so do Ugandans because of the impact being made here.

Thanks again - Ian

Hello All,

I got a text yesterday around noon from Keri and another late last night.

I had to pray about the first, just to gain peace when thinking about the
children they met yesterday.

The team went out in the field to visit the Mosaic children. These children are
all orphans. Many live in child headed households, meaning that a older sibling
is caring for the younger ones. When I say older, that could range from VERY
young, TOO young to a 'child' in their early teens. Others live with an elderly
grandparent. Their situations are desperate.

Keri said that the team is doing well and remaining strong. They saw some things
that really moved the entire team to tears---their hearts are breaking. Some of
the newer members of the team are really struggling with what they are seeing
but that the team is STRONG and that she is so very proud of them all!

The sights there can be overwhelming but I honestly believe this is where the
Lord takes us in order to see His people that are suffering. This is where He
will come along side the team and 'speak' to them about what He wants them to do
for Him---how He wants us ALL to love and comfort and heal and lift up and show
compassion. It brings tears to my eyes just writing this because I remember my
broken heart from my first trip---a heart that still hurts daily and that
're-breaks' when I hear these stories from Keri.

Keri said that it has been a day of transformation for many people and I just
love that she used that word, after the message that Tim gave this weekend at
church! He is rocking the world!!

As of yesterday, they had not had water for 24 hours and electricity for about
8----but none of that means much after one sees what they see out in the bush.

She sends her love to all of you who are concerned and praying. Continue to pray
that God's will will be done for this team and for the people there!

Just about now, they are off to dinner at the Bishop's house, a welcome
celebration and always a filling evening--both with the food of Uganda and the
fellowship of the people!

They will be attending chapel at the Diocese on Wednesday morning and then out
into the field with the children again.

Pray that they sleep well tonight---the travelers and the children in their
homes! Pray for their continued health, traveling mercies and broken hearts. May
their hearts continue to break for His people and may they answer His call to
come along side those of His people that are suffering so, to help bring them
the comfort of His love!

Kelly

Hello all,

I again posted on the blog with an update from Ian.

As for the team in Rukingiri, Keri is only periodically sending SHORT texts but
the word is that GOD IS ROCKIN' Uganda---through our travelers and in the people
on the ground. In particular, as I mentioned in yesterday's update, Trudie
preached at a village church. Keri said that the Holy Spirit took over and
Trudie was on FIRE! People were throwin' out the AMENS which I have not seen
much of there and all were moved and connected with the Holy Spirit. You go
Trudie girl!

I can see it, feel it, smell it and taste it!!! What God does there is over the
top and what a blessing for this team to be apart of that!

Keri has also briefly mentioned 2 of the 5 children that my family sponsors and
says that they are doing AMAZING. Such great things in two years---as long as we
are patient, we see His hand in all, in His time!

As soon as I hear from her, I will communicate with you all! Until then, keep
the team, the people of Uganda, our partners in Uganda and the sweet children of
Uganda in your prayers!

In His Service,

Kelly Boaitey

The day started at 5:30 with Morning Glory (praise and worship) for a little more than an hour. We then had breakfast at 7 and made our way to our work project.
We worked until 3 in the village, repairing one of the traditional mud homes. What team work and great joy working with the LDP students, whose families still live in the same type of mud homes. Slinging the mud is actually quite fun! The whole time that we were working, there were unclothed or only half dressed children all around. I am always amazed at the 3-4 year old children with their smaller siblings on their backs, taking care of them!
After returning to camp, we got something to eat, cleaned up and went off to attend a crusade in the local town. The student who preached was very fired up. More than 50 people accepted Christ and about 8 people were healed of various ailments. They want me to preach at one of the crusades in the next couple nights, so keep me in your prayers.
Now we will debrief and then mave supper at about 9:30.
Cathy is still regaining her strength, but is doing better. Thanks again for your prayers!

Ian

Kelly,



Here is the Sunday update from the LDP (Leadership Development Program)in Kasese:



As we arrived at the camp, which is a grouping of Army style, 8 man tents pitched on the property of a church/compassion child development program, we were greeted by several hundred children who were wide -eyed and dressed in rags. Some had sores and all of them were dirty but there eyes smiled almost more than their mouths did! Through an interpreter, they asked us questions. Megan shared the story of Jesus feeding the 5000. We connected with these kids from the community in which we will be living for the week. The 80 LDP students had gone out among 6 different churches to do ministry for the day. Through their work that day, over 200 people accepted Christ. Some of these young leaders led in music, some preached and some shared their testimony. When they all got back to camp, we started getting to know them. The stories are amazing and although there are so many, I want to at least share one: Emily never knew her parents and although she was allowed to stay with a woman from the church, she always felt unwanted. At age 10 she got sponsored through Compassion and God began showing her how real He is. She shared how He miraculously provided for her and how she was accepted into Compassion's Leadership Development Program. Each of these young people have been through so much and are still so exceptional in their faith, leadership, joy and inspiration.



Those of you praying for Cathy, thanks! She is regaining her strength.



We had a big, three-hour kick off for the crusades tonight and I can not tell you how exciting it is to hear the local political and spiritual leaders speak into the lives of these young leaders, with the vision of how God is going to use them to impact and influence this country.



Tomorrow we will begin the work projects in the community.



Thanks again for your prayers and support.



In His strength



Ian

Hello all! Well, the phones are NOT working but I got a text from Keri from her in country phone. It was 5 AM our time so they had just finished up with church. Church in Uganda is a LONG affair, usually lasting 3-5 hours and is a moving experience. Trudie preached the Word which I am sure was powerful! I can just see the church, FULL of children with their smiles from ear to ear and their stares of amazement and the Mzungu (white people) who have come to share the love of Christ. You all have no idea how special of a moment that this is for the people of the community. Their hearts are so full and for the travelers, the time spent with them is so moving! They then had tea with the chuch's pastor and are off for a hike to some falls on an island. I also heard from Ian. They are also well after a LONG, BUMPY journey from Rukingiri to Kesese. They also attended Sunday services. More later!

Kelly Boaitey

Last nights drive from Rukingiri to Kasese was quite the adventure 2 hours on a dirt road 2 hours on a paved pot hole road. We all, including the ladies, had to use the restroom on the road. We saw a hippo grazing by the side of the road and some water buffalo. It was something!! Cathy Cooper had a drink with ice in it last night and this morning she is not feeling well due to stomach issues. Please keep her in prayer. Church in the morning, crusade in the evening. I'll fill you in later. Thanks for your support.

Ian

We have made it to Rwanda everyone is very tired from all the traveling but their attitudes are great. This is a fantastic team!! We are spending 7 hours at a hotel in Kigali before driving up to our final destinations in Uganda. The Compassion staff have been very impressed with our team. Well I need to get a few hours sleep. Continue to pray for us. More to follow when I get up.

Ian

After 9 months of praying, planning and preparing this team of people is heading over to Uganda.

Five of us will be working most of the time with 100 college age Ugandans in a Leadership Development program set up by Compassion International. We will be in the villages serving the people, showing and sharing God’s love with them in very real and practical ways.

The rest of the team will be in Rukungiri with our church partners on multiple projects. They will be visiting double orphans that we are connected with through Mosaic Vision, building a kitchen, pantry and shower facility for one of the homes, they will be training leaders in the local area about starting a recovery ministry in the area. There will be an event for men, women & children as well as time at the clinic we are helping our partner build into a hospital, and at the Child Survival Program we sponsor through Compassion International and time spent with the children we sponsor.

Please pray for our team – safety, unity, and that God would work through us and in us as we go to show and share His great love with others.