On March 17, our group of eight excitedly set off on a big journey! After a 13-hour flight from Frankfurt, we landed in Entebbe (Uganda) in the middle of the night — stepping into a completely different world. A bit tired, we made our way to our accommodation — a small, simple guesthouse in Kyewanise — and got some rest.
The next morning, after breakfast, we headed to the Child Care Circle project site. Even just on the way there, we were overwhelmed by new impressions. In front of the children’s home, we were warmly and lovingly welcomed by the Ugandan staff and house mothers. It felt as if we had known each other forever — strangely familiar.
In the afternoon, we went into the village, played guitar and drums, and soon, many children gathered around us. Together we sang in a field, acted out a Bible story, and the children’s enthusiasm was contagious — an emotional moment for all of us. Meanwhile, the men began electrical work in the home and sanitary building. In addition, a well for agricultural use was dug and constructed.
One of the most moving and emotional moments for us women was a visit to the capital, Kampala. Quite unexpectedly, we encountered a street child — a very young girl sitting alone on the sidewalk. The encounter deeply touched and saddened us. All we could do was give her something to eat and drink. We still think of that moment often — such heartbreaking suffering.
We women also got involved in hands-on work by sanding and painting the hallway in the women’s wing of the children’s home. It was so touching to see how grateful the people were.
During this trip, we also had the opportunity to visit sponsored children at their schools. PE lessons, worship, and a reenactment of the story of David and Goliath were on the agenda for us and the kids. About 70 children participated with great enthusiasm — it was such fun!
A particularly special experience for us was the visit to a school for deaf and mute children. There, the teacher communicated with the children using sign language. We were warmly welcomed with lots of smiling faces. Together with the children, we danced, painted, and played games — it was a truly unique experience. We were deeply moved to see how thankful the children were for things that seem so small to us.
Shortly before Easter, we had the opportunity to give gifts to many families in the village. We had prepared many food packages in advance. Visiting the families was very moving for us.
These families often live in small mud huts with many people, in conditions we can hardly imagine. Their gratitude for the food packages was overwhelming. Often, they wouldn't let us leave without giving us a gift in return — like bananas from their garden. They were so happy and kept thanking us again and again.
During the safari, we were able to admire Uganda’s incredible biodiversity against the backdrop of a breathtaking sunset. Elephants, hippos, buffaloes, and even a lion came so close we could almost touch them (don’t worry, we were safe in a jeep 😉). Uganda’s landscape is stunning — lush and green in many places at that time of year, with plenty of ripe fruits ready for harvest. The view from the children’s home was especially picturesque — simply beautiful.
The church services were also deeply special for us. One of them took place in the village church — a small wooden hut. Many people came, and we were warmly welcomed once again. These services were so different from the ones we’re used to. Marked by worship, dancing, and joy, we praised and thanked our great God with all our hearts. We were deeply impressed by the love, dedication, gratitude, and often childlike but strong faith of the people there. We learned so much from them.
After 14 days, our impactful and meaningful time sadly came to an end. Saying goodbye was very hard… During our time there, we were able to serve and connect with the people. A well was built for agriculture and self-sufficiency. Lights were installed in the children’s home — and the joy the children felt just because there was light was indescribable. We were truly showered with gratitude.
By the end of the trip, we returned as people who had been richly blessed. We now view our wealth from a completely different perspective and no longer take it for granted. Many new questions about life have stayed with us — some still to this day.
It is truly worth looking beyond your own world and taking a journey like this. It will leave a lasting impact on your life.
