Christmas in Uganda!

A Ugandan Christmas: Worship, Wonder, and Water Fights

This Christmas season in Uganda has been a beautiful tapestry of worship, community, and joy that I'll treasure forever. Far from the familiar traditions of home, I've discovered that the heart of Christmas beats just as strongly—perhaps even more vibrantly—when stripped down to its essence: celebrating the coming of our Savior with those we love.

Nighttime Praises and Children's Joy

Our celebrations began with an overnight prayer and praise session that stretched into the early morning hours. There's something profound about seeking God's face as the world sleeps, letting worship carry us from darkness into light. "Let them praise his name with dancing and make music to him with timbrel and harp. For the Lord takes delight in his people" (Psalm 149:3-4). The voices lifted in song, the prayers whispered and declared—it was a powerful reminder that Christmas begins with worship.

The local children's program filled our hearts with pure delight. Watching the little ones perform their nativity plays and Christmas songs reminded me that "a little child will lead them" (Isaiah 11:6). Their innocent joy and enthusiasm brought the Christmas story to life in ways that no elaborate production ever could.

Home-Centered Celebrations

Our home became a gathering place for Christmas fellowship, filled with the aroma of homemade treats and the sound of prayer rising like incense. We opened our doors wide, creating space for community and communion. "Share with the Lord's people who are in need. Practice hospitality" (Romans 12:13). There's something sacred about breaking bread together, about praying shoulder to shoulder with brothers and sisters in Christ.

Christmas Day itself was a riot of laughter and friendly competition as we dove into Minute to Win It games. Prizes were fought over (all in good fun!), and the house rang with shouts of victory and groans of defeat. "A joyful heart is good medicine" (Proverbs 17:22)—and we definitely got our dose of joy that day!

Deepening Our Roots

Throughout this season, we've been intentional about going deeper spiritually. Completing our Advent readings and study felt like unwrapping the greatest gift of all—a fresh understanding of God's redemptive plan. We've pressed into studies on prayer, spiritual warfare, and healing that touches spirit, soul, and body. "Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind" (Romans 12:2). These aren't just theological concepts; they're lifelines for living victoriously.

The spiritual warfare training has been particularly powerful, reminding us that "our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms" (Ephesians 6:12). In a season celebrating Christ's victory over darkness, these truths resonate even more deeply.

An Unforgettable Finale

We ended our Christmas celebration in the most unexpected and delightful way—with a water fight under the Ugandan sun! After all the prayer and study and worship, we needed that release of pure, uninhibited fun. Water flew, laughter echoed, and for a moment, we were all children again, delighting in simple pleasures.

As the sun set, we gathered for dinner under a canopy of stars, serenaded by live music. The night air was warm, the fellowship sweet, and the sense of God's presence palpable. "The heavens declare the glory of God; the skies proclaim the work of his hands" (Psalm 19:1). Eating together beneath that vast African sky, I was overwhelmed with gratitude.

The Gift That Keeps Giving

This Christmas in Uganda has taught me that the most meaningful celebrations aren't about perfect decorations or elaborate traditions—they're about hearts turned toward God and hands reaching out to one another. "For where two or three gather in my name, there am I with them" (Matthew 18:20). We've gathered, we've worshiped, we've played, we've prayed, and in all of it, Christ has been gloriously present.

As I reflect on this season, I'm reminded of the angels' proclamation: "Glory to God in the highest heaven, and on earth peace to those on whom his favor rests" (Luke 2:14). That peace—that deep, abiding, Christ-centered peace—has been the greatest gift of this Ugandan Christmas.

May we carry this spirit of worship, community, and joy into the new year, always remembering that "every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights" (James 1:17).

A New Season, A New Mission Field

As I write this on December 31, 2025, we stand at the threshold of a new year and a new chapter in our ministry. We've recently moved to Mbale, an underreached area where the mission work has already begun. God is opening doors and hearts in this region, and we're excited to see what He will do in 2026.

"How beautiful on the mountains are the feet of those who bring good news, who proclaim peace, who bring good tidings, who proclaim salvation" (Isaiah 52:7). We're committed to bringing that good news to Mbale and the surrounding communities.

In January, I'll be traveling to Busia, Kenya to minister there—another opportunity to share the Gospel and strengthen believers across the border. These mission opportunities require both prayer and practical support.

Partner With Us

As we close out 2025, would you prayerfully consider making a year-end donation to help us:

• Continue establishing our ministry presence in Mbale

• Settle into this new unreached area and build relationships with the community

• Cover travel and accommodation costs for the upcoming ministry trip to Busia, Kenya

"And God is able to bless you abundantly, so that in all things at all times, having all that you need, you will abound in every good work" (2 Corinthians 9:8). Your partnership allows us to abound in the good work God has called us to.

Most importantly, we need your prayers. Pray for:

• Favor and open doors in Mbale

• Safety and fruitfulness during the Kenya ministry trip

• Provision for all the needs of this mission

• Spiritual breakthrough in these underreached communities

• Unity for the team

• Safety and protection during the election and political unrest

"Devote yourselves to prayer, being watchful and thankful" (Colossians 4:2). We are so thankful for each person who stands with us in prayer and support.

If you'd like to give or want more information about how to partner with us in this work, please reach out. Together, we can see God's kingdom advanced in East Africa.

Merry Christmas from Uganda, and may 2026 be a year of abundant harvest! 🇺🇬✨