Dear Shining Hope Family,
Many years ago, pastor and theologian Harry Ironside (1876-1951) was in China. There, he was introduced to the people he met as a Yasu-yan.
After a while, Ironside asked, “Why are you introducing me this way? What does Yasu-yan mean?”
“Yasu means ‘Jesus’ and yan means ‘man.’ I introduce you this way because you are a Jesus man!”
What profound words! Isn’t a follower of Christ just that—a “Jesus man”? Are we not called to reflect our precious Savior so clearly that when others look at us, they see Him shining through? Oh, to look more like Jesus!
We can see the beauty of Jesus reflected in YOU! In your love for the Lord and others . . . in your open-handed generosity . . . in your joyful, humble service. We praise the Lord for His redeeming work in your heart—and for how He used you this October in blessing the precious children of our ministry!
You may recall from our last thank-you update that we’ve been going through a more difficult time financially. Our prayer has been, “Let thy mercy, O Lord, be upon us, according as we hope in thee” (Psalm 33:22).
Kalungi posted this update on Facebook: “I’ve not been in a position to keep you updated about what goes on with our ministry because I’ve been extremely busy trying to make ends meet. It’s more of a crisis time for our ministry where we have reduced donations, growing responsibility, and a hike in prices of items. God is good that I’m back, and I’m hopeful He is going to bring in more support for our ministry. We kindly request your prayers and your support when you are able because times are tough. Thank you.”
The Lord guided us to start a weekly food fundraiser. (You can find it here: SHFV.org/food-fund)
What happened next is such a BEAUTIFUL testimony of God’s goodness!
“For the past weeks, we have been having problems getting funds for feeding and sustaining our home. Honestly, at some point, I felt discouraged. But because God leads in my life, I counted on Him to make things better. I’m now here to give a testimony that last week and this week God provided for us through some of the kind members of our Shining Hope family. Thank you for the kindness of these people walking in the footsteps of Jesus. Only God will reward you as you deserve.”
Our prayers for mercy were answered. And our gracious Heavenly Father continued providing for our ministry’s needs each and every day of October. We could not have done it without Him . . . and we could not have done it without YOU!!!
The PURE JOY radiating from the faces of our children and the neighbor kids shows just how much the love given and the meals served means to them! Truly, THANK YOU from the bottom of our hearts for making this possible.
Feeding between 20 and 50 neighborhood kids each day wasn’t something we had planned! (God often works when we least expect it, doesn’t He?!) It all started when Kalungi invited a couple of hungry kids to have a meal at our home. They, in turn, shared with their friends where they could get a meal, and the group of kiddos rapidly expanded. Now, some even travel quite a distance to receive a filling meal. What a blessing of God’s continued faithfulness in their lives through our Shining Hope family!
“On the 3rd and 4th of November, our seventh graders are taking their Primary Leaving Education Exams that will see them to high school. We’re very happy to have the first set of candidates for high school from Shining Hope for the Vulnerable. And we’re very thankful to everyone who has played a role in the growth and development of these children to this level of education.”
EIGHTH GRADE, HERE YOU COME! Your prayers as Scovia, Edrine, and Jonathan take these final exams are most welcome.
From our oldest to our youngest! On the first day of class this term, our smallest students posed for this picture outside school. Aren’t they adorable?!
Back row: Cedric, Valeria (a friend), Gloria, and Gift (a friend)
Front row: Jovan, Desmond, and Diana
WE HAVE EXCITING NEWS FOR YOU! Late this year or early the next, we are launching our first child sponsorship program for our 21 beloved kids!!! We are so excited to grow in this way and for these children to have the opportunity to develop meaningful relationships with their sponsors. Your prayers for wisdom, guidance, and strength as we plan and develop this program, as well as provision of sponsors for each of these kids, are needed—and very much appreciated.
From left to right, Jonathan, Edrine, Dalton, and Diana:
As the season for giving thanks rapidly approaches, we want to express how immensely grateful we are for your presence with us on our journey as Shining Hope. From our early days, to growth and expansion; from periods of trials and difficulty, to answered prayers and greatest joys—your support is deeply felt, treasured, and appreciated. Wishing you and your loved ones a most blessed Thanksgiving, reflecting on all the Lord has given you! WE LOVE YOU!!!
Seeing Jesus in you,
Kalungi + Rachel
“By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another.” ~John 13:35
PS: Harriet and Caroline have a very special message for you!
In this second video, join Mama Namusoke, a dear neighbor lady, and Kalungi as they lead several of our kids and their friends in worshiping the Lord through an African praise song!
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