BITTER SWEET

Last Wednesday, the 17th was both bitter and sweet.   On the sweet side of things, we celebrated exactly 6 months in Africa; we are thankful for God’s protection and provision…but on the same day, mom and dad left us to go back to the States.  I’ve underestimated several things while being here, but missing my folks was one that hit me, and the girls rather hard.  If I had to be completely honest, before Nana and Papa arrived, we were all doing rather well, adjusting to our new surroundings and all that the Ugandan culture throws at you.  Their stay was so good for us, and encouraged us a great deal.  We were able to share our daily lives with those that are closest to us.  Seems like we did so much…2nd FNC (The Fire Place) worship service, the first Joy Club International (they were also here for the 2nd), Emma was baptized into Christ in the Nile River, 2 UCF church services, etc… Their visit went fast, and before we all knew it, they were jumping aboard the plane to head for home.  We’re going to survive, with God’s help we will move forward once again.  As time moves on, we will get used to seeing people we love come and go.  I guess the first time for anything can be at times challenging.  But I’m not sure I’ll ever get used to saying goodbye.  Dad has always said he hates goodbyes, and that he’s not real good at them…I think I’m turning into my dad.     

Friday Night Church held its second worship service this past month, the theme for the evening was “Becoming Real”.  Some of you might have caught our invitation online as we sent it out via Facebook and Twitter.  The highlight of the night was a girl named Angel.  Angel has been involved at FNC from the beginning and UCF (University Community Fellowship) for several years now.  Angel has quite a story, and after hearing it, I asked her if she would be comfortable sharing it with all of us at FNC.  You see, Angel has a few scars, not just the internal scars that come from life, but also a large scar on the topside of her body.  When Angel was just 6 years old, she was trying to blow out a large candle, when the candle accidently fell and burnt part of her face, neck and arms.  Angel is now more than 25 years old, and has lived with her scars for over two decades.  The trials she has faced because of her scars are too many to count.  Now here’s the craziest part of the story…NO ONE, yes, no one (not even ME) had ever taken the time to ask Angel about what had happened to her.   We all just assumed it was something she wasn’t comfortable talking about, so we just ignored what was in plain sight.  You should see Angel today…not that she’s completely a different girl, after all, she had already come to know Jesus.  But it seems her confidence has soared since she shared her story with all of us.  If only we could all be so brave…

I’ve ask Wendy to share a bit regarding Joy Club International...enjoy!

Joy Club International has started in full force for ages 3 through grade 5.  We started with around 65 kids and last week had over 90 kids; we are anticipating more every week as word of mouth spreads this awesome ministry.  We have a fantastic group of 12 volunteers that have partnered with us every week at FNC to lead the kids in worship, crafts, snacks, games, and lesson times.  Please look on Facebook for some videos and pictures posted (on Wendy’s).  The kids have especially loved our music and worship time, really getting into the motions and dancing around.  Words are not sufficient for the supplies that were sent for us to get started with this endeavor, but thank you to all who donated and took time to think of us.  It has given us a great jump-start into what we think will be a huge impact on the community surrounding FNC.  Please continue to pray for kids to keep coming and growing in their friendship with Jesus and for our volunteers to stay focused on the task at hand.  Our hope is that FNC will be a place for families to come and learn and grow together in their relationship and knowledge of Jesus!  Thank you for your continued financial, emotional, and prayerful support.  ~Wendy

Earlier I shared how difficult it was to say goodbye, and though this is true, we would love to have to say goodbye to many more to come.  So please, if you are considering coming to the Motherland and paying us a visit and seeing what God is doing here amongst us, can I ask you to do so.  We have a guesthouse and plenty of exciting things for one to do.  Your investment won’t be wasted.    

  

AND THE HONEYMOON FADES...

Friday Night Church officially opened it’s doors on March the 1^st.  The band and staff worked tirelessly for 2 solid months and the worked really showed.  God took care of all the things we couldn’t, and then some.  Over 300 men, women and children were in attendance…thank you God for your provision!  Most of you reading this here in Uganda and abroad, had a huge impact.  I want to express my thanks and gratitude for your faithfulness and willingness to pray for FNC, and also for providing your time, talents and financial gifts towards God’s work here in Uganda.   But this wasn’t just a one-time event, it a beginning to something that God is continuing to mold.  And not only is He molding this ministry, he is in fact molding each one of us for His glory.

Emma, Annie and Lucy are doing so well…their new home schooling venture continues to be a success.  I know lot’s of people were praying that God would provide a safe and fulfilling environment for the girls’ studies, just so you know, your prayers didn’t fall on deaf ears.  In fact, other students and parents have caught wind of our program and plan on joining us soon!  Who knows what God has up his sleeve…

Wendy had her first Joy Club International volunteer meeting this past Wednesday and twelve people attended!   We were both overwhelmed with the response and dedication towards a ministry that hasn’t even begun.  Thanks to Cornerstone Christian Church, our first months of curriculum are covered, BUT, we are in need of supplies and snacks for the children.  Now, I know that many are wanting to send supplies, and for that we are grateful, but please take in mind the shipping costs.  Most of the times, we have found that the shipping costs are as much or more than the items that are being sent.  That said, some items are hard to come by here in Uganda, for example construction paper…I know, sounds silly that a simple product would be so challenging to get your hands on.  To help those that would want to donate to JCI, Wendy is putting together a list and a budget for the items and snacks that we will need.  Wendy or myself will post the list, and how you can donate, here on the blog and on facebook.   I don’t expect this to be a perfect solution, but every little bit helps! 

 So we’ve been in Africa now for a little over 5 months…it seems we learn something and/or meet someone new everyday.   But the honeymoon is quickly fading, and the “real work” of ministry is now upon us.  For anyone who has ever embarked on a new journey or started something a fresh, I’m sure my words are not foreign.  For me, I’m glad the newness is wearing off and the challenges are piling up.  Let me assure you the challenges though they are hard, allow me to stop and pause and ask God for His wisdom…this has been a good lesson and discipline for me.  The church is full of personalities that sometimes don’t see eye to eye, some one say “Welcome to ministry”.  But, instead of ignoring it, let’s talk about it, not running but walking hand in hand through life’s most difficult challenges.  I’ve never felt more alive in my life serving God’s people here in Uganda.   Thank you for those that are helping us stay here, your gifts continue to provide for so much! 

THE DAY BEFORE OUR LAUNCH...

It's the day before the official launch of Friday Night Church...the team is tired, but we are pushing on.  We've done all we can do, and now it's time to see what God is going to do.  Sitting here at the FNC base camp, thinking about how we got to this point in just 4 and a half months is nothing short of amazing.  The only logic I have come up with from my finite brain is that the harvest is extremely ripe here in Bukoto/Kamwokya, (a suburb here in Kampala).

We had our final "dress" rehearsal last night, and honestly felt like we were having the real service.  People from the community began to just show up.  Alfred, our security guard, told me people wanted to come in and that he had been holding them back.  I quickly told him to PLEASE let them come, and come they did!  Children of all ages, parents, college age, and even some of our elderly came out to see what all the noise was about.  God was good, we had not one complaint...but that's what happens when you get outside your walls and begin to know your community first.  You see, since we entered our base camp we have been developing bonds with our immediate neighbors.  One gentleman by the name of William has been one to love on our team in a fatherly or grandfatherly sort of way.  His cousin is our land lord, so I was introduced to William right away.  William is an amazing person, and  loves the Lord.  He and I share with one another at least once week on Williams small but pleasant veranda.  His home sits just to the west of our gate, so I see him and we greet each other just about everyday.  William is somewhere around 70 years and struggles with Parkinson's.  His hands shake violently, but his warm smile and heart never falter.  William owns most of the land around us, he is a proud Ugandan, in a good sense of course.  We plan to travel to his village in May...one of his daughters is getting married and he wants me to attend.  I was honored and will for sure be with William in May, Lord willing.  Did I mention there were children that entered our base camp last night?

God planted Friday Night Church in the midst of more than 500 children...seriously, you wouldn't believe how many kids from ages 1 to 12 years surround our base camp in just a 50 yard radius!  Now there are some things in life you should definitely pray over before acting on, and then there are others. If you have a neighbor in need, or about 500 of them, and you can help meet that need, then you'd better act.  Some of us need to open our eyes, get off our knees and look around.  Friday Night Church has introduced and is soon to announce to our community a new ministry that will specifically target children.  This ministry will meet on Wednesdays after school for two hours here at the FNC Base Camp.  God has given us plenty of space, and we intend to use it all as much as we can.  The name of this ministry will be called Joy Club International or JCI for short.  The name and idea of Joy Club originated several years from our good friend and mentor Pat Henry.  Pat saw the need in her hometown of Mt Sterling, IL and acted upon it.  Joy Club still remains as one of the the most influential children's ministries in the area.  So with Pat's blessing, via facebook and email, we have decided to use the name (adding the I for international) and basic concepts, while adapting it to Uganda.  And if last nights turn out was any indication of how many kids will show up, we are in serious need of even more space and volunteers!  But I know God will certainly provide...  

So that's about it for now...the girls are doing so well, they are adapting to this amazing place.  Wendy couldn't be happier, but her plate has gotten more full these past several weeks.  JCI is her ministry, we do it together, but I know she is the one leading out on this one, and I'm grateful for that!  PLEASE keep our family in your daily prayers, for our continued good health and steadfastness.  Blessings...

FRIDAY NIGHT CHURCH LAUNCH POSTER

Just wanted to share our launch with all that follow THE KISSING WELL...

NEW CONTACT INFO...

Hello to all!

Wanted to quickly post some updated contact info for us (The Gilliland's) and Friday Night Church.

Our new Ugandan PO BOX address is:  

Todd Gilliland
PO BOX 75632
Kampala, Uganda

(Please continue to use our US PO Box for monetary donations)

Phone Contacts:

FNC Base Camp:
+256790914264

Todd's cell:
+256793231980

Wendy's cell:
+256790462087

Facebook:

Friday Night Church
The Kissing Well

Emails:

Todd@thekissingwell.com
Toddwendygill@yahoo.com

STORY

God, I'm not sure what you have in store for this place, Your plans are just that, YOUR PLANS.  Kids are playing all around, you can hear their innocent little voices, one is now crying out to momma.  A rooster crows near by, and someone has just knocked on the gate to come in.  Mornings in Kampala are  special, dusty, but special.  When the sun comes, you are welcomed by Africa.

I'm re-reading a book I purchased a while back called "A Million Miles in a Thousand Years".  Donald Miller, most famous for his book, "Blue Like Jazz", says, "That it's hard for a person to write great stories when they are living one."  Not sure if that's my excuse for not writing lately, but I'm wondering if there is some truth Don has uncovered.  He also goes on to say that, "People need to be forced into a good story, something needs to happen to change their current course or story." For example, getting fired from or quitting your job, selling your house, a death of a loved one, a life threatening accident, your parents divorcing, the list is endless.  Which brings me to a question I would like to propose on those that care to read this blog...What are you living for?  Seriously, what makes you get up in the mornings and do what you do?  Is it a mortgage, car payment, school loans, pressure from society, your kids, your spouse, that next vacation or holiday, (and by the way, none of these are bad things to get up for).  But I ask you, what story are you living, is it boring, or is it one that would make an amazing movie?  Think about it...most of us live for stuff, really, at the end of the day, what have we accomplished?  Donald Miller writes, "Imagine going to see a movie about a guy that has a house, drives a Volvo, wife, two kids, goes to work M-F, works for the weekends, goes to church then gets older, has grand kids, gets cancer then dies.  Honestly, what kind of movie or story would that be?  Don't know about you but I would ask for a refund.  But this is exactly the kind of stories most of us tend to live.  What makes a great movie or story? risk, tension, faith, the unknown, passion, determination, fight?  All the above.  Yet most of us are content with driving a Volvo.  

Now, I can't tell you how much I would love some normalcy, things to be even remotely predictable for  even one day.  Maybe in chapter 2 God will write a few normal paragraphs for us, but for now we continue to trust.

Wendy was asked to teach Kindergarten (the same school the girls go to) on a Saturday, and started on the following Monday.  Can you say, predictable?  She loves it.  It's definitely had its challenges, but God has led her through them.  Oh, and the girls are doing so well.  Our days begin before sun up, around 5:15 am, and are out the door by 7:05 for the 20-30 minute commute, depending on the "jam" (that's traffic for all those who want to know).  Can you believe that I am the first one up...trust me, it's something that still surprises me and WENDY!  Lucy found a friend named Dawn.  I asked her this morning what she liked most about Dawn and she replied, "She is still black." (Have no idea where this came from, but she had just woken up.) Yes, Lucy is getting crazier and funnier with each passing day.  Emma is growing up in front of our eyes, she's beginning to be a real young lady...and responsible!  Don't know where she gets it.  Annie continues to be miss fashion, adapting her style to the Ugandan culture...her room is the cleanest and most organized, even more than mom and dads.

FNC Base Camp is looking AMAZING!  You all should see it for yourselves...you would be proud!  The paint is almost complete, and some new desks and chairs have been purchased and are in place.  The recording/rehearsal room (the blue room) has found a partner and has agreed to help us with the equipment part of things until we can afford to attain our own.  Just last week I posted on Facebook that FNC had it's first decision for Christ right outside my office window.  And the best part, I had nothing to do with it!  Martha, our new admin, shared with me the news that our painter, Pastor Dan, (yes he really is a Pastor at a near by church) struck up a friendly conversation with the gentleman that served the staff lunch earlier in the day, and before he was done, he asked Jesus to come into his heart.  Honestly, I am in awe of the work that God is doing, even today as we are just moving into our
campus!

Some prayer requests I want to ask you all for...

1.  God would make MARCH 1st (our first FNC Night) what He intends for it to be.  That those who need to be there, will be there.

2.  Continued health, physically and spiritually for The Gilliland's

3.  Provision for FNC rent and salaries.  Rent is $400/mo, Salaries are $800/mo

4.  Wisdom for FNC, that God would make his perfect will clear to the leadership.

Thanks once again for all the prayers and support, they really do help and go a long way here in such a far away place.  For the readers that took my earlier paragraph regarding "story" offensive, please accept my apologies in advance.  My heart desires people to live the life that God desires, a life that is full, a life that Jesus calls us to.  God's story is amazing, the best story lived in history, a story that is still told even after 2000 years, a story that continues to be lived through His people, a story that saves.  When Jesus returns and the lights come up, I want to see my name listed as the credits roll.

For UPDATED PICS of the BASE CAMP and FNC Band...please visit out PICS page.

 





                

GOD IS MOVING...

God is moving and the ride seems to be getting faster and faster.  We have certainly had our challenges with many more to come, but when God decides to move, He moves, and nothing can stop His amazing will.  In just over two and a half months, God has blessed us with not only a house, but now He has decided to bless us once again with a Base Camp for Friday Night Church!  I'll have to admit, with the budget we were starting with, I really thought we were only going to be able to afford a small rehearsal room or office, and for that I would have been most satisfied.  But when God moves, He not only moves, He provides!

Bethel Christian Academy is a small, but growing school of 65-70 students strong.  So strong they are having to move into a larger facility.  Reba Rwothumio, Micah Rwothumio's daughter, (my long time friend and Pastor of UCF) had been attending this school for more than a year.  Emma, Annie and Lucy were invited to come and visit the school the last few days of the term back in December.  The last day they were there, the school performed their annual Christmas play/musical with all the parents in attendance.  It was a blast, and for the first time since we left the states, I sensed a small slice of normal.  During the play I leaned over to Micah and asked how much this place would cost to lease, all the time thinking the property would be way over our meager budget, not to mention it probably not being available.  Micah said, "Probably around a million shillings or so per month", which is around $400.  I'm not sure if Micah saw my eyes, but they for sure got bigger.

Two days went by before I got up the nerve to go and meet with Miss Esta, the principal and director of Bethel Christian Academy.  She was happy to talk with me and even called the landlord of the property before we were finished.  I wasn't shocked to hear that 7 other people had called regarding the compound, but something still told me not to give up.  Then Miss Esta revealed to me what they were paying in rent...one million shillings!  I just about hit the floor, the exact number that Micah had guessed.  Honestly, this property is worth three times that, and maybe more...but we were a long way off, or it least I thought, from getting this compound.  Miss Esta gave us the landlords number and told us to call him, that he was waiting for our call.

Godwin's has been my friend and right hand man since we arrived.  Our relationship began up country back in April of this year, when Micah decided I needed to see the "REAL UGANDA".  We had discussed going to see the wild kingdom many times over the years, but I guess this time Micah ran out of patience.  Godwin's or Gody, was a last minute addition to the trip, and boy I'm glad that he joined us.  Gody is coming to 30 years and was recently married to a wonderful Kenyan lady named Nancy...we love Nancy and we love her smile...Gody certainly married UP!

So I asked Gody to call and set up a meeting with the Landlord.  Gody is the one that found and negotiated the deal for our home.  After meeting with the owner, Gody not only got us the property, but negotiated the rate at 1.1 million shillings!  Just 35 dollars over what the school was paying!  The Landlord knows Jesus, and he knows that Jesus will be shared in his property.  Though he didn't say it, I think that's why he chose us over the rest.  God bless this man.

So that's the story of how God gave us this compound...honestly, words or even pictures can't describe how amazing this new campus is.  It's HUGE, with way more space than we ever imagined having at this point in the ministry, and the location couldn't be more perfect.  Just a 12 minute drive from my home and just 15 minutes from UCF (our home church).  But God is helping us plan well.  The first thing we are doing is painting the place inside and out.  We have already hired 4 people to help us facilitate the property.  First, a Care-taker, his name is Alfred.  Second, a night guard, his name is Sam.  Third, an administrator, her name is Nancy, and fourth, a foot soldier or property manager of the compound, and his name is Godwin's!  All four are sold out to Jesus and can't wait to see what God is going to accomplish here at FNC Base Camp.

WE NEED YOUR HELP...if you've taken the time to read this story of how God is moving amongst the ministry of Friday Night Church, would you please take a moment and ask yourself if you could help us with not only your prayers but a financial gift?  Now is the time. For most of you, I've not up to this point asked you point blank to help support this ministry, but God is moving, and we need your help.  One time gifts are great, but what we really need are monthly commitments...commitments that will not only support FNC, but families that are employed by FNC.  God has provided, He is providing and He will provide.

Entering the compound from the main gate...

Main house and Welcome center/ Admin Offices...

Green space...

Outside of BLUE ROOM or Recording Studio...

Housing for Alfred and Sam...

Entering main house, welcome center...

Inside BLUE ROOM or recording studio...

Hallway from the welcome center to the offices...

Kitchen area...

Inside classroom for The School of Creative Arts...

Office #1

Outside of the compound/base camp

Office #2