Stepping out in faith

When I look back at my journey with Uganda, I can’t help but smile at how God has woven it into my story. I’ve been a few times before (although it turns out not for about 18 years now!) and the experience left a deep imprint on my heart — the people, their faith, their hospitality, and the way God moves when we step outside our comfort zones. Uganda became more than a place; it became part of my calling.

So much so that when my now‑husband first asked me out, I asked him quite a direct question: “Would you ever want to go to Uganda with me?” Because honestly, if the answer was no, there was no point in us dating. I felt Uganda was part of my life’s mission, and I needed someone willing to walk that road with me. Thankfully, he said yes, and although it has been many years since that time (retraining in jobs, having 3 children and moving down to the South Coast), here we are, preparing to go together as a family.

We didn’t jump straight in however. For months we prayed, asking God if this was the right time. We wrestled with worries about safety, the cost of travel, and the impact on our family. It felt like a much bigger step taking our children rather than just ourselves, and we wanted to be sure it was God’s plan, not just our own.

And then, one by one, the doors began to open. Our kids’ school agreed to hold their places while we were away if we home-school them while there. Work gave us unpaid leave, freeing us to go without losing our jobs. Finances have begun to line up in ways we hadn’t expected (although we still have a way to go but are trusting God with this too). Things became clearer: God was making a way.

So from February, we’ll be serving alongside local churches and ministries in Uganda for 2 months. Our focus will be:

• Bible Teaching — investing in young adults and children, teaching, and encouraging them in their faith.
• Community outreach — sharing the gospel through practical acts of service, visiting slums, and simply loving people.
• Leadership training — equipping local leaders with tools for evangelism and discipleship.
• Acts of Service – helping on the farm, around the base, and possibly even building a house!

It won’t always be easy. There will definitely be challenges, cultural differences, and moments of stretching. Our kids will be sharing one room and not be used to the food or heat, and we have many vaccinations to get through. There will be no internet or TV where we are. But we believe God has called us, and He will sustain us and use us.

This mission isn’t about us being strong or capable. It’s about trusting God to work through us and to be with us no matter what. From the moment we prayed about going, to the practical details falling into place, to the opportunities waiting for us in Uganda - it’s all been His hand.

Isaiah 6:8 says ‘Here I am, send me’. I believe we just have to be open to what God is asking us to do, and even if we’re not sure what that might be, stepping out in faith to try and trust that He will make it clear and be with us – after all He promises in the Bible to never leave us or forsake us (Hebrews 13:5b). This is what we are trying to do, believing that the same God who opened the doors will walk with us every step of the way. I will let you know how we get on once we’re back!

People have been so generous in their giving towards our trip, but if you haven't yet and would still like to, please follow this link!

https://gofund.me/f28d543d3