As soon as we set foot on the ground in Entebbe airport, we are always greeted by a number of friends, some of whom have been waiting there for hours in anticipation of our arrival.
This trip was no different. Saphan, Alex, Simone, along with pastor Ruth and a number of drivers were anxiously awaiting at the gates. As I approached them I couldn't help but get a lump in my throat and tears welling up in my eyes. The official hello or greeting in Uganda is always "you are most welcome".
The Ugandan people are very hospitable and always welcome us with sincere joy in our coming. We had eighteen team members this year and each one was greeted and welcomed as if they had known them forever. For myself, it was an overwhelming sight to see.
As we headed out the gates to our bus, everyone was excited and the buzz of voices filled the air. After a brief stop at the exchange window, Jan and I headed out to the bus. What a sight! Heads were scratched as we tried to figure out just how we were going to get eighteen team members, our hosts, and probably near fifty pieces of luggage on this vehicle. There many laughs as we piled in, and somewhat on each other. Quite surprisingly, and through Gods grace..it was done and we were off!
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| The entry way to our first nights dinner on arrival was spectacular |
Saphan had arranged for our stay at what he called "the cottages" in Entebbe, and assured me before our arrival that we would be very pleased. He would not show me photos or link me to websites, as he wanted our arrival to be somewhat of a surprise. It was our original intentions as a team to get to the cottages, turn in and rest before our long road trip to Tororo in the morning. Saphan was insistent that we not do that, he urged that we must have an official "welcome" to the team for dinner, it just could not be any other way. We unloaded our bags, checked into the room and headed 'down" for dinner.The team members and I were astounded at the beauty of our dinner setting. It was a spectacular setting under the moonlight sky. The huge white tent was lit up, beautiful flowers on table. It had the atmosphere of a wonderful reception.
We were served a wonderful buffet meal and were introduced to Nancy, the owner of the cottages. She too, greeted the team and welcomed us to Uganda. We shared our gratitude and prayers with Saphan and Alex for providing such a wonderful setting. We ate, laughed, and had a wonderful time of fellowship. It truly could not have been a better start to what would be a heartfelt journey with God to Africa.
It was official. We were now in Uganda and indeed felt "most welcome".
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