Dear Partners in Ministry,
“Faithful is he that calleth you who also will do it.” I Thessalonians 5:24
One of my spiritual mentors habitually said, “Do not be afraid to dream a Christ-honoring dream.” Many times Christians fear or lack the faith to pursue goals established for the advancing of God’s kingdom. I understand the theme verse at the top of the page deals with sanctification, more specifically eternal security, but in application it displays God’s power to fulfill implanted goals and equip Christians for accomplishing future dreams. This year we are resting on this promise and stepping into a new realm (Orphanage/Christian School), which requires much faith and perseverance. Everywhere we go, Muslim schools abound. We would like to see Uganda filled with Christian schools dedicated to seeing young children developed spiritually, mentally, socially, and physically according to God’s standards of truth.
Adjusting-to-Life Update: Events take place which produce serious surprise. The ordeal with Elijah has left us praising God for safety He supplied and funds we received. When doctors told us the likelihood of complications in another pregnancy we prayed fervently and felt peace about placing the womb in God’s hands. Well, last month God decided to open the womb. Our faith in the decision stands strong but is daily tested. Monitoring Kristy is a daily process, and so far things are moving normally. We pray daily for God to keep our unborn child safe and allow us to remain in Uganda for a safe delivery. Kristy needs much rest. Again, God’s timing is perfect. Melissa Eagles decided last year to spend 10 months in Uganda. She helped for two months in Soroti then came to Masaka in January to spend the rest of the time with us. What a blessing for her to be here to help Kristy with household chores and taking care of the children!
Culture Moment: Buying things as a foreigner is always an adventure. Pastor Diton, the national pastor handling the ministries in Kalisizo and Kyotera, expressed the need for a weed eater since the property in Kyotera is rather large and difficult to maintain. When we arrived in the capital, I dropped Diton off to find a good machine and negotiate the price. (The muzungu price--Foreigner price--is usually double, so I let him negotiate the price without my being there.) After finishing the errands in town, we stopped to buy the weed eater. Diton had already negotiated a price, but when they saw me, the price changed and a “bartering battle” began. Fortunately JJ, our orphanage leader, was with us. Between JJ and Diton, they convinced the sellers to stick by the original agreement.
Ministry Update:
Ministry Update: Language study is moving slowly but surely. Children’s ministry averages 70, but with the implementation of Kids for Truth, growth is on the horizon. Research for building the orphanage has been completed, and preparations are being made to begin construction. An administrator for the primary school has been chosen, and the funds for desks for administration, teachers and students provided. Research on government requirements and organization of all facets are in full motion. The group from Emmanuel’s village of Kamuzinda has graduated several through the discipleship program. We are working to get them into Pastor Diton’s church in Kalisizo since it is a little closer. Lord willing, we will get a church started in this village. We have been praying to see more people saved and just tonight, February 8, Kristy was able to lead a lady named Sarah to the Lord. Bible College began February 4. Ten students are attending the courses on Bible Survey, Bible Doctrines and Cults. We are excited about how God will use these ten students for His work.
Ministry Needs: $28,000 to purchase a Coaster Bus for School/Orphanage; $15,000 to build classrooms. We have enough classroom space to start in January 2008, but we need to build 4 more classrooms.
In His Service,
Tony & Kristy Applegate
tony@theapplegates.net / kris@theapplegates.net
CURRENT PRAYER REQUESTS AND PRAISES:
Praises: Our church leaders are beginning to stand firm in God’s Word even against tremendous pressure.
Prayer Requests: Safe Pregnancy for Kristy; Pray for Christian School curriculum to arrive safely and no later than June; Unity among the leaders and people of our church; Discernment for Keith and me in making decisions