2012 HIS Baptism

A few years back, it occurred to a few of us in the youth ministries area at HIS, that some of our students might not have access to be baptized. While they would have chosen Christ as Savior, due to various circumstances they might not have been able to go to church or be baptized. So we offered this ministry to them, and 14 participated. It was a wonderful time and blessed testimony for so many! 


So this year, we offered it again, for grades 4-12. There were 11 students who participated this time, and seeing evidence of Jesus' work in their lives meant so much. Josh, a WGM missionary and our school chaplain, had offered baptism classes ahead of time, and each student provided a testimony of how they met Christ as well as a brief statement of why they wanted to be baptized. 

Below: the group of students who were baptized.

The entire school came out to watch the ceremony, and I believe the activities spoke to a lot more hearts. We are so thankful to be seeing how God is working in the lives of our students and their families.

Senior Trip: Bulago Island, Lake Victoria

When it came time for the senior class trip, the guys opted out altogether, while all the girls wanted to go. So off we drove then boated to Bulago Island, about 1 ½ hours into Lake Victoria, to our own semi-private colonial house. For 3 days we relaxed together, had some funny times, some devotional times, some TV/video time, played games, slept, took lots of photos (the girls are ALL into photo shoots!), and generally made some nice memories.

Above: On the way out to the island.

Below: Waves on the way out made it a rough ride for some of the group... 

The house had some really unique items inside and out. For instance, they had the largest abacus I’ve ever seen, as well as a life-size carving of a man on a bicycle. Not sure why someone would make them (both are heavy wood) and then bring them to the island, but they’re certainly conversation pieces. There were other wonderful and interesting carvings, an antique tub and bath setting, wooden floors, rustic and attractive bedrooms and décor throughout. We enjoyed the geese, the beach & pool, and overall had a great time. 

We were all amazed by the sunsets on both nights! 

Senior's Mission Day at Katale

Heritage had a missions day in May, where various classes helped a variety of places such as schools, churches and even a police barracks. I was asked to take the seniors to one of our WGM related churches: Africa Gospel Church, Katale. Pastor Wilson was glad to receive us, and we helped paint a classroom for grade 7 in the church's school there. 

Above: the seniors, Pastor Wilson and 2 of the grade 7 boys, all hamming it up. I think my favorite part of this photo is that they happened to pose in front of the little sign, "avoid bad groups"; funny! There were similar signs posted all over the campus, all written to challenge and encourage young students. Most said things like, "be on time" or "be responsible". 

Above: first we had to peel the glued on posters off the walls. Sanding and scraping came next, then trim and painting. 

Below: Playing games with the seniors & some of the school kids during our lunch break.

A church neighbor had gotten his car stuck the night before. So glad we had several "strapping young men" to help push it out of the mud!

Some of the school students, who actually were on their spring break, came to school to watch, visit, play, etc. It was a great time for fellowship and encouragement of our AGC church and the community. 

Below: school students admire their new class color.

Below: Pastor Wilson working on a second coat.

Because the seniors from HIS asked for it, I’ve posted a number of photos from the day. 

WGM Retreat; a time of wonderful R & R

Easter break from Heritage became the best time for all of us to have out annual WGM Uganda field retreat. Inviting Dr. Al and Beth Coppedge as our speakers, along with Sheryl L. from WGM HQ Member Care, Pastor Rick & Janie B. as our youth leaders, and some HIS preschool workers to help with little ones, all the missionaries and this crew headed off to Fort Portal, Uganda, about 5 hours west of Kampala. The town is in the foothills of the Rwenzori Mountains, and it is a beautiful and relaxing location. 

The whole gang! (Well, except for me. I took this and didn't mind not being in the picture). 

The time we spent in Bible study and fellowship (at right) was truly refreshing for our bodies and souls. I’m so thankful for how the Lord used this time in each of our lives!

The hotel where we stayed (www.mountainsofthemoon.co.ug) has some really pretty grounds and nice rooms and amenities. They also offered delicious food and a peaceful atmosphere for us all. 

Having fun/being silly in the pool... 

The Coppedges are parents to Billy, one of our missionaries in Arua. It was so good to witness their family, including new twin girls, interacting and having precious times together. 

A typical plate of food here is Talapia and chips (fries). Yes, often it comes as a whole fish. Be careful of those bones. And,well, the eyes and teeth too... 

The hotel where we stayed (www.mountainsofthemoon.co.ug) has some really pretty grounds and nice rooms and amenities. They also offered delicious food (yes, beyond the whole fish pictured above) and a peaceful atmosphere for us all.