05/22/2026
As their church family, we ask for your prayers in God’s leading for this team, and His protection over the people and children of Uganda.
From Daniel and Julianna Bender:
In less than 2 weeks, Daniel and I were to embark on our first missions trip outside of the US. God called our hearts to these beautiful children in Uganda after watching a dear friend go there in November, as well as after the difficult year we have faced as a family. Every ounce of me knew God created my heart for this work when I heard part of the mission was to show affection/love to these children.
Due to the Ebola outbreak happening right now in Democratic Republic of Congo and Uganda, the missions trip has been postponed at this time. As as nurse, I completely understand and agree with the decision. As a human filled with emotions, my heart is so heavy. These children already have so very little, and my heart has been prepared to make them feel seen, loved, and valued. Please pray over these precious children. Please pray over these areas that are facing this scary Ebola outbreak. Please pray for Sparrow Village Initiatives and our team as we try to find ways to love them from a distance until we can finally be there face to face. Trusting in God and clinging to His words… Ecclesiastes 3:11, which says: "He has made everything beautiful in its time."
