Faith, Friendship and Shared Learning in Uganda

When newly ordained priest Revd Paula Holmes-Patel and Authorised Lay Minister Katrina Gaskell from St Mary’s, Prestwich, travelled to Uganda this summer, they did so with a desire to deepen relationships, learn from fellow Christians, and experience first-hand the work of Fountain of Peace Christian Charity in Kyenjojo. What they encountered was a powerful reminder that mission is not simply about what we can offer others, but about what we can learn, share and receive when we walk alongside one another in faith.

During their visit, Paula and Katrina were welcomed by the Fountain of Peace community. They joined local people in worship, spent time in schools and community projects, and learned more about how the charity supports children and families across the region. One highlight of the visit was attending worship at St James’ Church in Miranga, which serves the local community and acts as an important centre of Christian life in the area. Sharing in worship together provided a visible reminder of the global Church and the bonds that connect Christians across continents and cultures.

Paula and Katrin also spent time at Rwenjaza Hillside School, where they explored Bible stories and reflected with pupils on themes of compassion, stewardship and caring for creation, leading conversations around the story of the Good Samaritan, and encouraging discussion about what it means to be a neighbour and to show kindness in everyday life.

During a visit to Bethel Babies Home, Paula and Katrina met staff caring for orphaned and abandoned children. They witnessed the dedication, love, and commitment of local carers who provide a nurturing environment for some of the community’s most vulnerable children.

In addition to these experiences, the trip offered opportunities to celebrate together through music, worship and community gatherings, strengthening relationships that have developed between St Mary’s and Fountain of Peace over time.

As a lasting symbol of friendship, Paula and Susan Dodd, a trustee of Fountain of Peace, planted an avocado tree named “Mary” as a reminder of the relationship between St Mary’s Prestwich and Fountain of Peace, and of a shared commitment to caring for God’s creation.

Reflecting on the experience, Paula said the trip quickly challenged any assumptions about mission being a one-way relationship, saying, “Our mission was not simply about what we can offer, but about listening, learning and walking alongside one another in faith.”

The visit reinforced the importance of partnership, mutual encouragement and learning from the experiences of Christians in different contexts, deepening St Mary’s connection with the work of Fountain of Peace and the communities it serves.

Please continue to pray for Fountain of Peace, for the children, staff and local communities in Kyenjojo, and for the relationships that continue to grow between Christians in Uganda and Greater Manchester.