Extending our Network

Last week our Scripture Union friend, Beth, suggested (well…strongly urged!) that we seek a meeting with the leader of the Church of Uganda, the largest Protestant church in Uganda, Mr. N. Although we have made connections with at least one influential man from that denomination, she felt we should gain the understanding/support of the leader, since a large number of Ugandan schools are connected to their churches. She helped us draft a letter which was emailed to the Scripture Union office who printed it on their letterhead. Beth then got it and brought it to church for us to sign and another Scripture Union worker got it from her and delivered it to the addressee. She reported a favorable response and gave his mobile phone number for us to phone for an appointment. Again upon Beth’s urging, Laura called and a Tuesday morning appointment was given.

Beth spent last night with us, and joined us as we pulled out of the driveway at 6:30 AM this morning, in an attempt to get ahead of the traffic. Traffic was light, but wow, did it ever rain, but we safely arrived at a Guest House close to Scripture Union where we stopped to have breakfast (after waiting in the car for the rain to let up a little bit). Then on to Scripture Union to join them for their hour-long daily devotions during which our appointment (and project) were lifted to the Lord in prayer. We enjoyed tea (to warm us up after getting quite wet running to and from the car) and (yet another) prayer time with Dickens, the Scripture Union director. Dickens agreed to drive our car and off the four of us went—our destination was only about 10-15 minutes away from their office.

Soon we were being ushered into Mr. N’s office and were greeted with a warm handshake. After Dickens introduced us, Laura shared a summary of what we had seen God do in the Philippines and I showed him the VOICE curriculum. Then the conversation turned from values to morality. The four of us affirmed the strong Scriptural stand that Mr. N’s denomination has taken despite accusations and ridicule from other countries. Once he knew that we also agreed with his denomination’s stand on morality, Mr. N readily acknowledged the need of teaching godly values to students. He offered to encourage others in his denomination to be involved in helping to compile the African edition of the curriculum to help instill Biblical values in the children and youth of his country.  After warmly thanking us for coming to Uganda, he asked to sign his guest book. As we got ready to leave, he stated his need for prayer as the head of his denomination that he would stand true and be a godly leader, which Dickens was only too glad to pray for him

We praise God for opening the door to meet Mr. N and we pray for God’s plan in these early stages as we see how God will bring together the Start-Up Committee and those who champion Biblical values.  Pray with us as we follow up our visit with Mr. N.