It is now Wednesday morning at 5:45, but Tuesday evening at 7:45 where I live.
First off, the hotel where the conference is being held is really very nice. It is the Hotel Paradise on the Nile in Jinja, Uganda. All the facilities are good and, unlike previous years, the rooms have A/C! However, the weather is mild and the surroundings are beautiful.
We began yesterday with the first session at 2 PM, with a worship team from one of the local churches. I love the African style of music, it is so energetic and joyful! There was then a time where each couple introduced themselves. They came mostly from around Uganda but there were couples from Kenya, Tanzania, and Burundi as well. I would say that there are probably close to 60 couples. I will take a photo of the group today when I teach. Yesterday I taught the session before the dinner break. I thought it went quite well.
It is so nice to reconnect with so many from years past, although I don’t remember all of the names nor the cities where they live (I couldn’t pronounce most of the cities anyway!). But one of the guys said that it is easier for many to remember one face than one person to remember all of the faces. Very true.
So, it was a good first day and I enjoyed the time with everyone. Still a bit jet-lagged, waking up around 4 in the morning. I’m sure i’ll be over it by the time I leave for home!
Oh, by the way, Debbie finally heard from the Uganda Immigration office regarding her visa application. Too little, too late but I had to chuckle. We accept the will of God and for whatever reason or reasons, Debbie was not meant to be here this year. But I sure do miss her, and so many ladies are disappointed that she isn’t here.
Well, thanks for the prayers. And, yes, leave a comment. It helps me know that these blogs are being read.
Blessings,
David
We are really enjoying your blogs. Thank you very much for taking the time to tell us how things are going. We’re glad you’re having a good time, though you are missing Debbie. It’s nice to know that many of the ladies miss seeing her too. Interesting about the Visa, but also reassuring that God is in control. We are thinking about you often and praying for you.
Karla and John
Love reading your update … joining you in sorrow that Debbie isn’t there … but grateful God is!
David,
Sounds wonderful, exhausting, but wonderful. We pray daily for you and so sorry Debbie couldn’t go. First thing we said, God had other plans. That’s what’s so great about our Lord, He sees things and situations we don’t.
Enjoying the blogs.
God bless,
Linda Middleton
Hi, we are ready the blogs. Praying for you. Peggy H.
Post some photographs. Let’s see your surroundings. I’m praying for you.
You sound like a photographer!!
Enjoying the blogs, and praying!
Martin and Diana
I was sad to hear Debbie could join you but as we have talked before, her mission at home of sending you and praying is certainly sharing in the love of Christ for those you are with.