THANK YOU!

We extend our heartfelt appreciation to each one of you for your unwavering prayer and financial support for the Expand mission in Uganda. Your commitment played a central role in making the most recent journey to Uganda a profound and transformative experience.

“Not only did your donation change the lives of the Ugandan people, but it changed ours as well. The babies and kids that were loved on and played with recognize how special it is that we were there for them. As do we. And all of that couldn’t have happened without your help. So with a heart overflowing with gratitude, we truly can’t say thank you enough.” -Samantha Barth

HIGHLIGHTS

During our ten-day trip, we had the opportunity to visit and serve at Loving Hearts (a Christian orphanage) and Bethany Village (a network of Christian homes for children). Additionally, we attended services at three different churches, visited two Christian schools, explored Africa Renewal Headquarters and University, and enjoyed a day of safari on the Nile River!

In addition to the time we invested in the children, we also had multiple opportunities to visit with twelve of our pastors and the churches of the Pastoral Support Mission, a network of 31 pastors. Our goal was to be open vessels, sharing the love of Jesus, equipping our brothers and sisters to follow King Jesus, and encouraging pastors to remain faithful in the kingdom work to which they have been called.
Angel taught women’s discipleship classes for two different churches. Annabelle and Samantha instructed both children and youth in two different churches. Sean had the opportunity to preach at three different churches.

LESSONS LEARNED

Although there are many lessons, we could share with you, we think the one that was most evident was this: There is power in simply showing up in people’s lives. The Apostle Paul reminded the church of Thessalonica with this same principle.

“Because we loved you so much, we were delighted to share with you not only the gospel of God but our lives as well.”

1 Thessalonians 2:8

Final Thoughts from Sean Thome’

If there was one statement we heard repeatedly, it was, “Thank you for coming and being with us.” Our brothers and sisters were genuinely grateful that we took the time to come and share not only the gospel but also our lives, simply being present with them.

This served as a powerful reminder for us upon our return to the USA. There is incredible power when we choose to show up and share both the gospel and our lives with people.

So, not only do we wish to express our gratitude for your generous prayers and financial support, but we also want to remind you that every day, we are surrounded by people who are simply waiting for others to show up and share both the good news of Jesus and their lives.

On behalf of the Uganda Team, we sincerely thank you for empowering us to share Jesus and our lives with our Ugandan brothers and sisters.