Sironko Church

Today we embarked to Sironko, a village about 30 minutes outside of Mbale. First Presbyterian first planted a church there in 2009, with Pastor Dennis, who is still the head Pastor today. The Soronko group included, Cynthia Howard (who the Sironko village calls "mama"), Megan Howard, Terri Hickey, Robert Floyd and Jim Alsup. After a very bumpy dirt road van ride We were greeted by singing and worship at the church. We broke off into Sunday school classes, throughout the church and its yard surrounded by cornfields. Cynthia taught the women's bible study, Robert and Jim taught the men, and Terri and Megan taught the children. Jim and Robert were pleased with the men’s enthusiasm to ask questions. They seemed truly interested and eager to learn and know more of God’s great word. Children even flocked out of the cornfield ready to learn about God as well. Cynthia spoke to the women on the importance of prayer. There was lots of interaction and lots of discussion within the ladies' group. Megan and Terri were delighted to interact with the 40-50 children, aging in range from 1-13 years old. They taught the kids a hand prayer and told them the parable of the lost sheep, and the Good Samaritan. The children sang many songs for Megan and Terri, including their own version of Jesus loves me. After Sunday school, the church put on a production of choirs! 4 or 5 different groups performed beautiful praise songs in Lugandan and English. We were overwhelmed by their performances and deduction to worship by song. Pastor Dennis introduced Cynthia to the sanctuary, who gave her testimony and focused on the importance of Family. He then introduced Jim who gave the sermon for the morning. At this point we were only running an hour behind schedule (typical of Ugandan time!!) Jim spoke on the choices we make in our lives; he included the story of Adam and Eve, Peter with Jesus and many more. Pastor Dennis translated Jim's sermon with much fervor and it was greatly received by the congregation. Applause were not withheld when Jim was speaking. Sironko is a lively village, and we all feel blessed to have visited with its lovely people. Memories of today will not be forgotten!