Coming for the first time, and coming again...
I’ve been to Uganda three times now, but this was my first time in Jinja and at The James Place. My time here was short, but it was so sweet. Jesus is woven through every artisan, teacher and child care worker, every cook and person doing the laundry, and everyone in-between. I was worried about coming for only a short period of time. I was worried I wouldn’t get close to any of the women I was so excited to develop relationships with. But, my worries quickly vanished after only knowing the staff at The James Place for a few days. There isn’t anyone who doesn’t welcome you with open arms.
I quickly became close to Moreryne in childcare because I spent most of my time with the children. She is filled with so much energy and joy. She is always singing and making me laugh. The pottery ladies also have a special place in my heart. They loved to show me their beautiful work and how they created it. Being an artist myself, I loved watching and hearing them talk about their craft. I sat with Mama Susan in baskets for at least an hour a day. She taught me how to make them, and while we worked on the basket, we would get to talk.
Someone from the outside may think my life is so different from someone in Uganda, but this is so far from the truth. The women here are no different than me. We all have boy problems and trouble with friends. We think the same things are funny and like the same music. It’s easy to become close to someone who lives continents apart from you if you talk to them like a friend or just as you were talking to someone next door at home.
I’m thankful for all the children here. Working with children has been a true joy of mine for as long as I can remember. Ester, Juma, Titus, Achin, Newton, Mogesha, and Betty became like little siblings to me. I loved the joy they radiated, and getting to love on them truly was the best part of my days.
The Lord is working through HEAL Ministries and at The James Place. His hand is placed on every aspect. I’m thankful for the lessons I’ve learned and the people I’ve met. I can’t wait to one day return and get to hug all of my friends again. Thank you, HEAL.
- Eliza Crockett, Volunteer Intern
After a challenging year filled with uncertainty, I am so thankful to come back to The James Place for a short period of time. Ever since I arrived in America after interning at HEAL in 2019, I was already planning my next trip back. Unfortunately, my trip in May 2020 was canceled due to COVID, and I started to get discouraged about when I would be able to return. Thankfully, I found three weeks to come to visit all my friends at The James Place, and I am so thankful for my short time here!
Old and new faces welcomed me and were so excited that I have made the journey back. I love The James Place because you always pick right where you left off with the relationships that were built. My favorite parts about coming back to The James Place are seeing the change over time, meeting new friends, and deepening relationships. The James Place looks a little different this time without the preschool being open and childcare limited, but the amount of love and joy still overflows this place. Something really unique and special is going on at The James Place, and I feel so grateful to be able to witness it!
