ROWAN ROOTS - by Elaina Griffith

It's been 5 years since I began my relationship with the rural village of Mawanga and Pastor Paul Nyende. Pastor Paul's relentless mission to save these children and rescue the widows of his community, without resources, drew me to the need. All this started because suddenly the AIDS epidemic hit the rural areas, and Pastor Paul saw an opportunity to show the love of Christ and witness to his own community by offering burial services to these outcast ones, regardless of whether they were Muslim or witchdoctor. Suddenly, he found his church FULL of new born believers, because of his kindness. But, he also felt the heavy burden of wanting so badly to help these babes in Christ, and without resources.

I believe, as he does, that these orphans are fast growing up to be the hope in leadership for Uganda. Paul's ministry in this village is monumental, and he warrants our support!
God is moving among them for a purpose, and I want to encourage them to know that God has not abandoned them, but, that He has a plan for them.

The TRUTH IS: they are not alone among the community of Christ. They are our brothers and sisters in the gospel and in the world. And, I know from personal experience, that a little love and encouragement goes a long way for a broken heart. HOPE is essential to the soul.
May God take these broken hearts and mend and make them strong for HIS GLORY!
Elaina Griffith, R.O.W.A.N
experiencthegospel@gmail.com

A New Parcel of Land is purchased

In Februrary 2009, a new parcel of land was purchased for $400,000 ug shillings ($250 US). The land, which is 26.9 X 72 Meters (about 1/2 an acre) will be used to expand the MICRO-ENTERPRISE of farming. Each Wednesday, the ROWAN widows meet under the mango tree for spiritual support through bible study and prayer, and to make decisions regarding their projects. God has blessed us, once again, with this opportunity. Previously, the seller of the land was only willing to part with half as much land for the same price. Patience has paid off, and the widows and orphans are moving closer to economic self-sufficiency. With the Lord's continued help and your merciful gifts, we have seen many miracles in the village of Mawanga.