Hermeneutics, Romans, Study Bibles, Bibles, Books and More

On June 24, 2025June 25, 2025 By Jacob LeeIn Uncategorized1 Comment

“And now, just as you accepted Christ Jesus as your Lord, you must continue to follow him. Let your roots grow down into him, and let your lives be built on him. Then your faith will grow strong in the truth you were taught, and you will overflow with thankfulness.” Colossians 2: 6-7

**New Satellite picture of the RAU Campus: 3°41’34.1″N 31°41’25.1″E**

In our last post on May 14th, Carol wrote about the upcoming Hermeneutics (“the art and science of biblical interpretation”) module with Rocky Point Baptist Church (RPBC), Stephen, Texas, and the Forest Hill Presbyterian (PCA) Church from Forest Hill, Maryland, module on the book of Romans in Reaching Africa’s Unreached (RAU’s) Hall of Tyrannus. The RPBC team was led by Elder Scott Manley and the Forest Hill team by Pastor Jason Van Bemmel. Whenever we have teams, we request they be led by an Elder or Pastor in the church. In each of these modules, there were close to sixty church leaders from many different denominations in attendance from Monday to Friday. The attendees who traveled slept and ate at RAU. Full-day schedules ran from 9 AM to noon, 1:30 PM to 5:30 PM, and 7 PM to 8 PM. The focus of RAU’s module training is strengthening church leaders primarily in the primary (first tier) doctrines of the Christian faith and in a Biblical Worldview that understands the implications of Christ’s Lordship for all of life. Since 2013 we have had around 50 of these modules.

RAU’s Mission and Vision Statements: https://reachingafricasunreached.org/about/

The RPBC team was with us May 24th – June 4th.

The hermeneutics module was May 26th – 30th. Pastor Jeff Dyke put together an outline of the book, 40 Questions on Biblical Interpretation by Robert Plummer. These two resources, along with an Africa Study Bible and some other books, were given to the leaders.

Sunday, May 25th, we worshipped in the Metu Mountains church plant in Arapi/Gbari. Elder, Scott Manley, preached the Word.

On Tuesday, May 27th, while Scott and Blake taught in the Hall of Tyrannus, I (Jacob) took the rest of the team to the Metu Mountains to visit a couple of churches and a borehole RAU put in and where RAU seeks to assist Aya Baptist in planting a church. At each stop, the Word was shared.

On May 28th and 29th, while men on the team taught at RAU, the RPBC’s ladies and Carol had a two day conference with ladies in a nearby church on the the sovereignty of God and suffering.

On May 31st-June 3rd we were all in Yumbe District worshipping on Sunday with Lodenga Church, then spending lunch at the home of our friend, Charles, where he shared about the Aringa tribe and the struggles facing the church. Then we visited several upper-level Sheikhs and leaders in the District Khard’s office next to the biggest mosque in the District. Later, we had the opportunity to minister to the physical needs of two Sheikhs suffering from diabetes and who have been friends since 2014. A couple (Rachel and Ethan) on the team who are in the medical field were a huge help in ensuring good wound care for one of the Sheikhs. While we were waiting, I had some good one-on-one times with the Sheikhs where I shared the gospel in a kind and respectful way once again. Please pray for them, the gospel seed has been planted and watered for a number of years now.

On Monday, June 2nd we met again at Lodenga Church. The RPBC men had a five-hour session with the men on Romans, and the women met separately with the RPBC’s women team members who taught, again, on the sovereignty of God and suffering.

One special aspect of the Rocky Point team was that our daughter, Anna, was one of the team members. What a gift to us as parents! She even stayed with us in our home. We love to see Anna in action, loving and serving, sharing will great skill from the word of God and sharing her laughter and joy.

Monday closing at Lodenga church

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Forest Hill Presbyterian (PCA) Church team was with us June 8th-June 18th.

Romans Module June 9th-13th.

On June 11th, I took Caleb, Silas, and co-worker Zakeo to two secondary schools where Caleb and Silas effectively shared the gospel. The next day, the three of them went back to the nearby Logoba Secondary School and planted several of RAU’s seedlings. Seedlings are part of RAU’s demo farm project. During the whole week, Katherine was in the kitchen helping our RAU cooks with the food preparations and washing dishes, etc.. The cooks all were impressed with Katherine’s work ethic! Food preparation is very labor-intensive. RAU provides some transport, lodging, and three meals a day for those attending the module training as well as the rest of the staff. In our Romans module, we had 55 who received certificates. It costs RAU around $40 per church leader to have them with us. We are very grateful to the churches and individuals who financially support RAU so that we can continue in the calling the Lord has given us.

On Friday, June 13th, after the close of the Romans module, we all met at RAU with the widow (Sarah along with her six children) of the Metu Mountain pastor who was helping in a remote church plant there. He died in a very tragic way. Praise God for the support given to RAU on her behalf, as well as Aya Baptist church in the Aya Metu Mountains, which is standing with her. One of the church’s members, also a widow, has agreed to offer the mother pictured here a free space to start her own shop and will also mentor her in business. That is the way the church is supposed to live!

Forest Hill in Yumbe District: Lodenga Church of Uganda

This was our 7th trip to this small church in Lodenga Village since mid-December 2024 and fourth with a team on a Sunday morning and training on Monday afternoon. We have also been active along with local churches in evangelism, open-air preaching, and the Jesus film in this immediate area. It is literally surrounded by ardent Muslims, and the church is under constant pressure. ABWE (Carol and I are Associate ABWE missionaries) highlighted the work of RAU in the Lodenga area: “A Church Stands Strong” – https://abwe.org/blog/a-church-stands-strong/ It is an honor to have RAU highlighted in ABWE’s “Message Magazine.“ We are blessed to be part of the ABWE family!

“God help me make a difference for you that is utterly disproportionate to who I am.” (David Brainerd)

Above: An earlier date in a market near Lodenga Church

Bibles and Books

Getting study Bibles, Bibles, and sound theological books into the hands of West Nile Ugandans, as well as North and South Sudanese church leaders, combined with our module teaching in RAU’s Hall of Tyrannus and local churches, is another way RAU is seeking to walk out 2 Timothy 2:2 in our Sub-Saharan region. The Lord has certainly blessed and provided! Currently, RAU has four 40′ shelved containers to safely keep these resources from the elements and especially from the many rats and termites we have in our area. Our goal is to be a resource center for West Nile Uganda, the nearby refugee resettlement camps, as well as for South Sudanese and North Sudanese who fled to both South Sudan and Uganda. I am happy to report that since our last post, we have received several thousand more books of various titles via Christianbook International outreach, Crossway International, Oasis International, and Evergreen Publishing Zambia. Evergreen is now able to print books in Uganda, PTL! Most recently, we received over a thousand of Conrad Mbewe’s new book on the Christian Family. It is added to his other two we have in stock for leaders. We have also recently received over 2,500 ESV Global Study Bibles from Crossway. Since 2013, they have blessed us now with well over 30,000 ESV Global Study Bibles, which have been primarily for church leaders and community leaders.

***Sudanese from the Republic of (North) Sudan***

In August, we are expecting 23,000+ ESV Pew Bibles, which will be primarily for congregation members, students, and evangelism outreach. In August 2024, we received 20,000+, and they were gone by February 2025. In addition, we are expecting 10,520 more Africa Study Bibles (ASB). These will be added to the 6,100 we received at the end of 2024. Praise God! Of all the resources we have for leaders, I see the ASB as the most important. We are so grateful for the Lord’s grace and the sacrificial love of God’s people!

We are grateful for this added edition on The Christian Family for Reaching Africa’s Unreached (RAU) resource center. It is written by an African pastor Conrad Mbewe who understands well transcultural biblical principles of marriage and family, and at the same time also understands the African mindset, which is often deeply rooted in tradition and community values. His insights explore the intersection of biblical faith and culture, offering practical guidance that resonates with the daily lives of believers. This makes it a great resource for our Ugandan and Sudanese Christian church leaders, empowering them to effectively nurture family units and strengthen their congregations through biblically sound, culturally relevant teachings. I believe that this addition will not only enhance church leaders understanding but also inspire them to foster healthier family dynamics within their communities, ultimately contributing to the spiritual growth and development of the African church.

Conrad Mbewe and his wife will be at RAU, Lord willing, November 17th-21st for a training module

I am very proud of Carol. She, along with a dedicated Madi Ugandan team, has skillfully translated Good Soil’s: The Story of Hope into Ma’di with the tonal markings. This remarkable achievement not only demonstrates their commitment to preserving linguistic heritage but also aims to make the book accessible to a wider audience. It is currently in the hands of readers to check for reliability and understanding, ensuring that every nuance and meaning is accurately conveyed. This process of review is crucial for maintaining the integrity of the translation. It may very well be the first printed non-biblical Ma’di book with the tonal marks, thus setting a precedent for future publications and inspiring others to undertake similar projects that enrich local literature.

In addition, dear friend Jackie Kirby in Podcast “JPF: Joyful. Patient. Faithful” interviews Carol. The episode is entitled “Carol In Uganda”. It is a very encouraging episode digging into how’s and whys we are in Uganda and the many struggles along the way. It is well worth your time. Thank you, Jackie!

On Wednesday June 25th we leave for Entebbe via MAF. While in Entebbe, we will travel into Kampala to pick up our Permanent (5-year) Resident permits. Since we have lived in Uganda now for nearly 12 years we could apply for these residence visa’s. This is a huge answer to prayer as we were unsure as to the logistics of entering back into the Uganda late September or early October! We were hoping for at least a 10-year permit, but as was explained to us, they start with 5 year residence, then a review and 10 year residence, followed by a review again and then a full-fledged Life-time Residential permit! I jokingly told Carol I will be just mere 84 years old when, Lord willing, we get permanent permanent residency! I pray the Lord gives us many more years to work in God’s vineyard of the West Nile of Uganda, South Sudan and the Republic of Sudan… Philippians 1:21-26. However, as Carol has noted in our previous post we might be in the home Jesus has prepared for us…John 14:3.

Please be in prayer for us in these coming months of activity and travel, as we embark on this exciting journey filled with anticipation and joy. We are looking forward to seeing our children, their spouses, and our ten wonderful grandchildren, each of whom brings a unique light into our lives. Eight of the ten were born while we have lived in Uganda, and over the years, God, in His boundless grace, has nurtured a profoundly close bond with them all that we cherish deeply. We are particularly eager to witness how they have grown and changed, creating new memories together that will last a lifetime. Additionally, we look forward to spending quality time with our beloved home church, Lifegate Seguin, Texas, where we have built lasting friendships with our brothers and sisters in Christ since we became members in 1982. Their unwavering support has been a blessing in our lives. We also have plans to visit supporting churches and friends who have stood by us throughout our journey, allowing us to reconnect and share stories of God’s faithfulness and provision along the way.

In the loving sovereign grip of our Lord Jesus Christ,

Jacob and Carol Lee

Donation Information: https://reachingafricasunreached.org/donations/

Carol and I are grateful to be Associate Missionaries with ABWE.

Video Interview: “What does it mean to be an Associate Missionary with ABWE?”: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2NIk9-mNdWk&t=12s

34,280 More Bibles To RAU

On April 18, 2025April 19, 2025 By Jacob LeeIn Uncategorized1 Comment

Yes, you read that title correctly!

We are constantly amazed at the bountiful grace of God in His provision for getting His word, the Bible, to the nations and specifically to Uganda, South Sudan, and the Republic of (North) Sudan. “All Scripture is inspired by God and is useful to teach us what is true and to make us realize what is wrong in our lives. It corrects us when we are wrong and teaches us to do what is right.” (2 Timothy 3:16)

The funding for the second container of Africa Study Bibles has been successfully finalized!

I’m excited to share an update about our mission to deliver Africa Study Bibles (ASB) to RAU. We received our first shipment of 6,100 ASB’s, which marks a significant milestone in our journey! The second shipment of 10,520 ASBs needed $82,685 in funding, a goal that seemed daunting at first. However, thanks to our generous donors, the remaining balance is now $0! Praise God, and thank you to everyone who has prayed and contributed to getting these 10,520 ASB’s to Reaching Africa’s Unreached (RAU). We are also grateful for Oasis Publishing and Christianbook International Outreach for their partnership in this endeavor. They are currently being printed and will be shipped as soon as printing is complete! This means through God’s grace and the sacrificial love of His people, Reaching Africa’s Unreached, we will have received 16,620 Africa Study Bibles, which are primarily for church leaders! These leaders play a crucial role in guiding and mentoring their congregations, and with these resources, they will be better equipped to share the teachings and messages of the Bible. You can read more about the Africa Study Bible here: https://reachingafricasunreached.org/23040-africa-study-bibles-to-r-a-u/

RAU’s primary mission and vision is walking out our calling found in 2 Timothy 2:2, which emphasizes the importance of faithful teaching and mentorship. One of several means of accomplishing this is by placing Study Bibles and doctrinally sound Christian books into the hands of church leaders, empowering them in the first-tier fundamental truths of the Christian faith. RAU has on its campus four 40-foot covered shelved containers as a means of keeping these Bibles and books safe and available for distribution. By equipping leaders with solid theological resources, we ensure that the teachings of Christ are rooted deeply in biblical truths and can be shared accurately. Education in Uganda is conducted in English from the primary (elementary) level through university, which means that English is widely read and spoken across the nation, facilitating communication and the growth of spiritual knowledge. This linguistic advantage is also true among Sudanese we work with, though at a lesser level. To learn more about how we articulate and envision our mission, you can read RAU’s Mission Vision Statements here: https://reachingafricasunreached.org/about/ .

“The printed page is a missionary that can go anywhere and do so at minimum cost. It enters closed lands and reaches all strata of society. It does not grow weary. It needs no furlough. It lives longer than any missionary. It never gets ill. It penetrates through the mind to the heart and conscience. It has and is producing results everywhere. It has often lain dormant yet retained its life and bloomed years later.” Missionary Samuel Marinus Zwemer 1867– 1952

23,760 ESV Pew Bibles due to arrive, Lord willing May 30th

We were thankful to have received 20,000 ESV paperback pew Bibles in August 2024 from Christianbook International Outreach and Crossway International. By February 2025 they were distributed primarily to secondary students and church members who could read English. All secondary students must have an English Bible, but many in our community cannot afford one, emphasizing our opportunity to share God’s Word. We also used these Pew Bibles in our evangelistic efforts. Excitingly, another 23,760 are expected on May 30th from the same organizations. RAU is grateful for the chance to distribute these Bibles to Ugandans and Sudanese and will handle them as responsibly as the first shipment.

It is our conviction from our long-term experience in the field that it is unhealthy to give things, even Bibles, for free without something small coming from each one’s pocket. Everyone has something small that can be given. The principle being we spend on what we think is important. When giving/sending out bibles we gather names, contact numbers, and the church where they are members. Sadly, even after doing this, we have known and caught pastors and bishops getting Bibles from us and becoming hawkers of them, selling them to bookshops and to others at a high price.

We at RAU want to always work in partnership and not contribute to a dependency attitude. That is not to say there are special times/circumstances when the Bibles and books are given out freely. A great resource that has helped guide us in this is Helping Without Hurting in Africa. We have had two modules in RAU’s Hall of Tyrannus using this book with church leaders. They each received certificate from the Chalmers Institute. Pray that we have God’s wisdom in distributing the above resources for God’s glory, the strengthening and maturation of the church, and in our evangelistic efforts.

Wayne and Nancy Reigel from Kentucky were with us 5 weeks

From Carol: “We met Wayne and Nancy Reigel “by chance” at the airport in Arua Uganda in 2019 and immediately hit it off. A sweet move of Providence. Sweeter still, we found out that they live in Louisville, KY where we traveled once a year to meet some other dear friends. Wayne and Nancy had, to that point, been traveling to Sudan (which eventually became South Sudan) since 2009 for short term ministry trips. Their goal was the same as ours—to see others come to know and love Jesus and then grow deeply in their faith while also faithfully calling others to believe. Due to COVID-19 as well as other circumstances, they were not able to return to Uganda/South Sudan—until 2025!

“This year, Wayne and Nancy came specifically to visit us—for more than a few days or a week. They spent 5 weeks with us (minus a day) and every single one of those days and weeks turned out to be fruitful for RAU and for Jacob and me, personally. Wayne, a retired pilot and wonderful mechanic and all around handy-man, woke up early and worked late, fixing stubborn machinery and finding creative ways to expertly repair things that were broken or inefficient. Wayne: 1000—unfixables: 0 (batting a 1000)!!! I have never met anyone else who matches Jacob in his work ethic. Those guys are two hat-wearing, go-get-em, work machines. I told some of our co-workers that “Jacob has found his twin”—and they heartily agreed! Nancy worked tirelessly behind the scenes organizing resources, cleaning apartments, cooking and learning new recipes to satisfy hungry tastebuds. We all especially loved the bread which she learned to make (using the limited pots and pans available). Almost every evening, we shared a meal together with them, enjoyed deep and laughter-filled conversations and often watched an episode of “Dispatches from the Front” which gave us a window into the work of Christ in building His church around the world, or a short video on the life of some great Christian. What a blessing.

“During their visit, we had several outreaches—into the Metu Mountains—where Wayne preached (at Ijujo Baptist Church and Arapi/Gbari Community Church). He and Nancy also gave words of encouragement to several other churches deep in valley villages (Oyo and Duku). We took them to Yumbe where we worshiped with the believers in a rural area and where both Jacob and Wayne either preached or gave a message of encouragement to eager listeners. In the evening, Wayne and Nancy experienced and were able to participate in an open air on Market Day in a nearby village. Jacob’s top-of-Land Cruiser preaching was cut only a little short by heavy rain, but it did shut down the plan to show the Jesus Film which is always well attended. There were some sweet moments of connection with the many children and adults huddled inside a shelter as the rain poured down. Though the rain disorganized the roads a bit, it was no match for the Land Cruiser! On another visit to Yumbe some days later, Wayne and Jacob joined our friend, Charles, to talk over plans to work more closely with him and other believers to strengthen the church which has been unsettled by opposition.

“There was a tangible empty space left by their departure. What has filled up that space a little is expectation of their plan to be back next year for TWO months! (March and April) AND they hope to be able to make that a yearly part of their “retirement” plans! Jacob and I seem to be “running into” more couples who, rather than be put on the shelf in their “winter season”, are choosing to use their training and wisdom to build up the Church and serve Christ will all their energy. Wayne and Nancy are one of the answers to our many prayers for others to come under the yoke and bear the load with us.”

Grafted Mango Harvest in Progress

Currently, we are in the full swing of mango season. Many of RAU’s grafted mangoes are heading as far south as Kampala and as far north as Juba, along with many places in between. Also, many seedlings, e.g., grafted mangoes, avocado, jackfruit, orange, tangerine, eucalyptus, and umbrella, were all potted by our RAU staff. R.A.U. is working to equip pastors and their congregations through agricultural development strategies. R.A.U.’s 25.5-acre compound serves as a demo plot for numerous agricultural projects. We have also been bringing members of the community to RAU for both day and multi-day training in agriculture, business planning, and entrepreneurship. You can read more and see many pictures at RAU’s mercy ministry page: https://reachingafricasunreached.org/agriculture-project/

2 Timothy 2:2 being walked out in the Bidibidi Refugee Resettlement Camp

Joshua Abraham with students in the Bidibidi refugee resettlement camp. Here he is with one of two groups for the 2025 year. He took two groups through in 2023 and one in 2024. Their first book study was *Nine Marks of a Healthy Church* by Mark Dever. They will be using their Africa Study Bible throughout the year. Graduations are held in December. In the video below is more information on how Joshua is walking out 2 Timothy 2:2 in the Bidibidi refugee camp.

Upcoming ministry events we request prayer for:

April 28-30: A team from Canada led by friend Arnold Reimer. We will spend most of our time in the Metu Mountains looking at boreholes (water wells) they have helped RAU put in.
April 28 – May 5: Ministry team from supporting church Hill Country Fellowship, Burnet, Texas. Their focus of ministry will be in the Metu Mountains, Moyo Sub-County, and Yumbe District, bringing encouragement to churches and children’s ministry. The team will also participate in evangelism at a Yumbe market center.
May 23-June 4th: Ministry team from supporting church Rocky Point Baptist, Stephenville, Texas. They will lead a Monday-Friday module on hermeneutics in RAU Hall of Tyrannus using Robert Plummer’s book 40 Questions on Biblical Interpretation (Second Edition). The ladies will hold training for women in the local church on the biblical view of suffering. The single young men will help in the module and be involved in evangelism in the Metu Mountains. The team will also participate in evangelism at a Yumbe market center.
June 8-17: Ministry team from supporting church Forest Hill Presbyterian (PCA). They will a lead a Monday-Saturday module on Romans in RAU Hall of Tyrannus using Tim Keller’s Two Volume Romans For You. Youth will be involved with ministering the gospel in schools. A couple days will also be spent ministering in Metu Mountain churches.

Special Prayer Need

Please continue to pray that we would soon be granted our Permanent Resident permits. We are able to apply for this status because of the length of time we have been living in Uganda. The application was made in December 2024, but this is a special process requiring a special committee to sit and review the application, and it’s taking longer than we expected. Currently, we are renewing tourist visas at our nearby border checkpoint with South Sudan every 3 months until we, Lord willing, receive 10-year permanent permits.

One of the main ministry tools is being able to show the “Jesus Film” in the local language from atop the Land Cruiser after our open-air preaching in Yumbe Aringa market centers. Our projector has spoiled. A friend has found a high-quality laser projector for $3000 and a team in May the Rocky Point Baptist team could bring it to us. If any of you would be willing to contribute to it, it would be much appreciated. Just go to our donor page and write in the note: “Laser Projector.” Thank you!

Let me end with this, “…What is your life? For you are a mist that appears for a little time and then vanishes….” (James 4:14). With my gray hair increasing and with more aches and pains each day I realize more and more my “mist” is a lot thinner these days! When I think on this and also the fact that I must give an account of my life in Christ to my maker and redeemer ( 2 Cor. 5:10), and that His great love is given to me each and every moment, my choices for this day and my limited days (Ps. 39:4) are much much easier. May it be so with you as well!

Gratefully,

Jacob and Carol Lee

Donation Information:https://reachingafricasunreached.org/donations/

Carol and I are grateful to be Associate Missionaries with ABWE.

Video Interview: “What does it mean to be an Associate Missionary with ABWE?”: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2NIk9-mNdWk&t=12s

Expanding Horizons

On March 19, 2025 By Jacob LeeIn Uncategorized

By Carol Lee

“A mind that is stretched by a new experience can never go back to its old dimensions.”

~~Oliver Wendell Holmes, Jr.~~

One of the many benefits of taking a Short Term Ministry (STM) trip is that, if you have never been abroad before, by virtue of traveling you are expanding your mind, your perspective, your experience, your knowledge, and your heart, beyond their normal encapsulated boundaries. This is especially important for Church leaders in America who answer for the life and health of their “flock” and the trajectory and completion of the Church’s mission.

In that light, it was a joy to receive 7 men (Jason, Wayne, Billy, Garrett, Austin, James and David) from churches in Mississippi under the guidance of a well-seasoned STM traveler and trip leader, David Williams. The purpose of their visit was to stir the churches in Lincoln County, MS to a more far-reaching vision and participation in the Great Commission by participating in on-going ministry in another country–Uganda, and RAU particularly. David had brought another team years back and wanted to ignite this team by revisiting RAU and this region of northwestern Uganda.

In typical fashion, Jacob devised a plan to squeeze every ounce of ministry, experience and energy out of them, starting on Day 1 after arrival. They spent the first three days in the Metu Mountains (north end–Gbari, Arapi, Duku, Oyo– and south end–Aya, Ijujo, Cinyi, Oku, Lea). I opted to stay home because, a) the Land Cruiser was going to be filled to the rim or brim and, b) it was just too hot and, c) it was really hot! Ha! In Duku, they were able to witness the blessing of replaced steel water pipes with stainless steel pipes for the borehole and taste water fresh from the underground. In each spot, each of the men shared a word of encouragement to the gathered believers. I will let the pictures tell more of their stories.

On the third day in the Metu Mountains, they met at the Gbari/Arapi to gather with the two other churches in the area (Duku and Oyo). Garrett, from what Jacob told me, preached a wonderful message and with a special emphasis on baptism–for the 22 people who were prepared for baptism and would receive that ordinance and confirmation of their willing, confessed faith afterward in the stream in the valley. Pastor Tobious had told us earlier that he would have someone go down to the stream to scare away the pythons and other snakes that take refuge in or near the water during the hottest part of the day…yikes! Thankfully, the baptisms happened without a hitch–or a hiss!

On Monday–EARLY–we all headed to Yumbe and then on to Lodenga. Yumbe is home to the Aringa tribe who are primarily Muslim. According to the Joshua Project the Aringa are 1.9% Christian. We have described previously the challenges the believers in Yumbe have faced, and particularly in Lodenga where threats were made that the church would be destroyed and their land usurped. Since we first visited Lodenga, the oppression has heightened but so has the show of support from other churches. RAU has now had several trainings there. Our brothers from Mississippi spent about 3 hours teaching from Greg Gilbert’s “What is the Gospel?“. Many resources were handed out–numerous books and an Africa Study Bible (ASB).

Afterward, a meal was shared together.

From the expansive mango tree, shade cover at the Lodenga church property, we proceeded over rugged roads and terrain to Aniti, a small village where Market Day was taking place. Permission was received by the Local Councilman 1 (LCI) for our group to join the market place for one on one conversations about Christ, handing out dual-language tracts (Aringa/English), to explain and proclaim the Gospel and then to show the Jesus Film in Aringa. There were many who joined us from the various churches and sang joyfully with dance. The audience for the Jesus film was large–and probably larger than we could fully see due to darkness. Because of the anticipated late finish of this time of ministry, we had made reservations at a hotel in Yumbe town, and we arrived there at around 11:15 pm. From some reports, there were a few who professed faith in Christ.

We found out later that there were several Muslims who had joined the teaching time earlier, seeking to scope out the message and activities. They went away with Christian literature and, sometime later, others came back requesting a Bible also. One Muslim woman was present who showed an interest but was chased away by her husband. However, she joined the group at the Market place. When she returned home, her husband “turned her over to her relatives” in protest of her interest in the Christian faith. Another woman put her faith in Jesus Christ and is now seeking counsel as to whether or not she should leave her husband. These are very real, painful and complex issues. Women, especially, have great interest in Jesus but fear reprisals from their families and community.

On Tuesday, after a good breakfast, we went to Charles’ home where we received from him interesting historical information about the Aringa tribe (of which he is a member), about his ministry in the area, and his experiences in working in an environment that is potentially and strongly opposed to the growth of the Christian church in the area. It was jab to our consciences to hear him talk about his trust in God’s sovereignty over his life–whether that signifies ultimate suffering or ongoing struggles. It reminded me of this quote by Henry Martyn: “I am immortal until God’s work for me to do is done.”

Wednesday was “debrief” day which ended with a nice meal together at a local restaurant. We remained on RAU campus and spent the morning sharing our thoughts and experiences of the time together. Jacob and I were immensely blessed by this “band of brothers“, their love for the Lord, for people and for the message of the Gospel to reconcile people to God through Jesus Christ. Their words of encouragement buoyed us greatly. We loved their commitment to not allowing apathy to stifle the spiritual energy and vision that was generated during their visit. Jacob and I pray that their goal of kindling a fire for a “more far-reaching vision and participation in the Great Commission” will not be a pipe dream but a fleshed-out reality when they return to their homes and churches.

We sent the team off early on Thursday morning as they needed to reach Entebbe with enough time to do a small bit of shopping for their families, get a meal and some rest, and make it to the airport for the flight home. All are now safely back in Mississippi.

Following quickly after the departure of our friends, on Friday we received Wayne and Nancy Reigel who came to stay with us on the RAU campus for a month–to encourage us and to participate in the many things which are happening here. Wayne and Nancy have been traveling to South Sudan and Uganda for many years now on STM trips and, providentially, we met them at the Arua airport a number of years ago and have become dear friends. Their love for the Lord and the peoples of this region runs deep. Already they have plunged into RAU daily life, learning grafting of mangoes and sitting in on interesting conversations such as the following.

Yesterday, we met with a young woman who has been diagnosed with a cancerous growth in her right eye. Peter, a teacher in a school nearby, is a believer who is advocating for her. We met to discuss her case, provide some money which was given specifically for her and to strategize on how to inspire community involvement and help. Such surgeries and treatments are expensive, partially because the patient and family member must travel far to a hospital where appropriate care can be found and sustain themselves while there. We emphasized urgency due to the diagnosis (to minimize encroaching damage to surrounding tissue). Please be in prayer for “Christine” as they seek to raise the remainder of funds needed and pray for healing with minimal complications.

Since Jacob’s last post, we have some good news concerning our fundraising efforts for the Africa Study Bible (ASB). Jacob had written that we still needed $18,247.19. BUT! during the writing of this newsletter, we received word from our USA office that $11,800 had come in. This leaves us with only a remaining $6,447.19!!!! Praise the Lord. And thank you, to those who are cheerfully generous in your giving (2 Corinthians 9: 6-10).

We are pleased to see signs of Rainy Season chasing away the dryness and heat and dust. Soon, it will be time for planting (for the community and RAU demo farm) and then harvesting mangoes will follow. We already have people vying for the mangoes, even before they are fully developed. It is a testament to the surrounding communities that there is, indeed, a good market for grafted mangoes and that it is a viable Ag investment. That is our sincere hope–that many would latch on to this vision for their own empowerment and for a wider community benefit.

Though there is a natural season for fruit, in Kingdom life and Gospel work the key is to “preach the word; be ready in season and out of season” (2 Timothy 4:2). There is no downtime. No lollygagging. It’s always the right time to plow, prepare, sow, water, weed and harvest in God’s field. We anticipate this as we meet with those who come unexpectedly or look at the many upcoming events on our calendar: March/April discipleship training in Yumbe District and the Hill Country Fellowship Team, the Rocky Point Baptist Team and the Forest Hill Presbyterian Team–in April, May and June!!

Jesus’ last words were about an expanding horizon of grace to the nations and reconciliation to God through His redeeming work as recorded in Acts 1:8: “But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you, and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth.” May Christ’s vision be expanded in us, breaking us free from our encapsulated thinking and desires–whether we are at home or missionaries abroad!

Gratefully,

Jacob and Carol Lee

Donation Information:https://reachingafricasunreached.org/donations/

Carol and I are grateful to be Associate Missionaries with ABWE.

Video Interview: “What does it mean to be an Associate Missionary with ABWE?”: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2NIk9-mNdWk&t=12s

Update Via New Videos

On February 28, 2025March 17, 2025 By Jacob LeeIn Uncategorized

March 5, 2025 Africa Study Bible Update

Great news from our end! I’m thrilled to share an update about our determined mission to deliver 23,040 Africa Study Bibles (ASB) to RAU. As may know, we’ve received our first shipment of 6,100 ASBs! The second shipment of 10,520 ASBs had a funding requirement of $82,685. Thanks to generous donations the remaining balance for this second of three shipments is down to $18,247.19! Praise the Lord for His provision! Let’s keep our hearts united in prayer, steadfast in belief, and joyfully anticipate the arrival of these Bibles by faith.Would you consider joining us in this noble endeavor to eliminate this balance completely? For more information about how to give please us here:

https://reachingafricasunreached.org/donations/

———————————-

A Update Via Videos: What Has Been Happening at Reaching Africa’s Unreached.

Before I share the videos, let me provide a quick update on our trip to Entebbe for Carol’s appointment with the heart specialist. We left on Monday, Feb. 24th; she had her appointment on the 25th, and we returned to RAU on the 26th.

Here is an update from Carol in her own words on her cardiology consult:

“Thanks to all of you for your prayers and concern and expressed love! I was able to see a cardiologist in a very nicely run private Catholic hospital in Entebbe. I was out of there in about 2 hours—a little less.

Basically, I have some “benign” ectopic beats (premature ventricular contractions) most often caused by excessive caffeine (which I don’t do) or lack of good sleep (likely a contributing factor) or other stresses like dehydration or electrolyte imbalances or…(likely contributing factors). An occasional one is typically not noticed, but I was having them so often that I was feeling symptomatic.

I had an ECG—EKG—done and it confirmed what my handy-dandy little ECG machine recorded. The doctor was not concerned and reported the ectopic beats as not worrisome, but put me on a small dose of beta-blocker for two months (as a measure for symptom management) after which I will be reviewed. If all is well or nothing else develops, he expects to leave me off of the medication.

It was a reassuring experience and outcome and great to know that I am in some very capable hands here in Uganda. It’s too bad we live so far away. On the other hand, this little get away has been a de-stressor and very enjoyable.”

One: Flying by Reaching Africa’s Unreached

On our return flight to Reaching Africa’s Unreached (RAU) from Kajjansi via MAF to Moyo’s grass strip (after Carol’s appointment), we were able to see RAU from above, a breathtaking view that reminded us of the mission we’re on. As we passed around RAU, I was reminded of the many who sacrificed in helping us get this piece of Ugandan bush, just a couple of kilometers from South Sudan. Clearing began in 2013 when Carol and I moved here. It has been transformed into a place to walk out 2 Timothy 2:2 through Bible training modules designed to equip church leaders. We have been enabled by God’s grace to establish a distribution center for Study Bibles, Bibles, and Christian literature, ensuring that the church leaders and churches have access to essential materials for spiritual growth. Additionally, through God and His loving people, we are using this transformed bush as a demonstration farm for churches and the community for economic empowerment, illustrating sustainable agricultural practices, especially in all aspects of grafted mangoes, and by providing hands-on training.

Two: “Readers are Leaders; Leaders are Readers”

We are overflowing with joy! A remarkable shipment of 196 boxes filled with various biblically sound Christian books arrived at Reaching Africa’s Unreached (RAU). Once again, we are grateful to our steadfast partner, Christianbook International Outreach, for their unwavering support in delivering doctrinally sound Christian literature to RAU. Our mission is rooted in 2 Timothy 2:2, as we strive to walk alongside our dear Ugandan and Sudanese brothers and sisters in Christ. Offering biblically sound Christian books and Study Bibles is just one of the incredible ways we embrace this calling! We humbly ask for your continued prayers for Reaching Africa’s Unreached. Thank you from the depths of our hearts!

“The printed page is a missionary that can go anywhere and do so at minimum cost. It enters closed lands and reaches all strata of society. It does not grow weary. It needs no furlough. It lives longer than any missionary. It never gets ill. It penetrates through the mind to the heart and conscience. It has and is producing results everywhere. It has often lain dormant yet retained its life and bloomed years later.” Missionary Samuel Marinus Zwemer ( 1867– 1952).

Three: Economic Empowerment through Grafted Mangoes in NW Uganda

Take a walk with me through Reaching Africa’s Unreached Grafted Mango Orchard located in Uganda, just a couple of kilometers from the South Sudan border. The current MAJOR focus agriculturally of Reaching Africa’s Unreached in showing Christ’s love is to promote and teach how to grow and care for grafted mangoes, to serve as a means of economic empowerment for the church and community. We are dedicated to offering comprehensive training in grafting techniques, ensuring individuals and families have the necessary skills to cultivate these trees successfully. Furthermore, we emphasize the importance of proper care for the mangoes throughout their growth cycle, utilizing RAU’s 25.5 acres as a demonstration site where hands-on learning and practical engagement can occur. This initiative not only aims to enhance agricultural knowledge but also fosters a sense of community and shared purpose among participants, reinforcing the values of stewardship and love for one another as we cultivate both the land and relationships.

Four: Tree Removal Part One and Two

Most missionary work often boils down to the relentless grind of “plodding” through mundane tasks to keep the wheels turning. One of my goals? Handing over a campus that’s not just functional but “well-oiloed” in terms of maintenance issues. Take the video above, for instance, as a prime exhibit of that tedious plodding. One of the beautiful truths which came out of the Reformation is that all work aiming for God’s glory is “spiritual“. These two video follows the one showcasing the reception of over 6,000+ Africa Study Bibles? Such sequencing is no mere coincidence :-). The application in the second video that comes to mind is: This is how the Body of Christ should work together to get the gospel out to the nations! Thank you to our many support us in ALL the work God has call us to do here along the Uganda/South Sudan border!

Five: Africa Study Bibles Arriving

Latest Update:

The long-awaited first installment of over 6,100 of the 23,040 Africa Study Bibles (ASB) has finally arrived, and we are joyful! Great news from our end! The second shipment of 10,520 ASBs had a funding requirement of $82,685. Thanks to generous donations the remaining balance for this second of three shipments is down to $23,880! Praise the Lord for His provision! Please keep praying as we anticipate the arrival of these Bibles by faith. Would you consider joining us in this noble endeavor to eliminate this balance completely?

Discover more about the ASB here: https://reachingafricasunreached.org/20040-africa-study-bibles-to-r-a-u/

Will you join us in prayer and consider how you can help us secure the additional funds for the second shipment of Africa Study Bibles? Information on how you can give is here:

https://reachingafricasunreached.org/donations/

Many more short videos which date back to 2013 may be found here: https://www.youtube.com/@jacoblee2082/videos

Points for prayer for upcoming events:

1). Prayer for Carol’s continual health–mine too please. We both are “feeling” our age.

2) Rejoicing for the funds that came in replace Duku’s borehole (water well) with new stainless steel pipes.

3) Pray for a team of seven Mississippi Baptist church leaders led by David Williams who will be with us March 6th to 13th for ministry. Both in the Metu Mountains and Yumbe district, they will be teaching on “What Is the Gospel?” using Greg Gilbert’s book as the outline.

4) Please pray for God to touch people’s hearts to give for the remaining $23,880 for the second of three shipments of 10,520 Africa Study Bibles (ASB). Please consider helping bring this second load of ASBs to RAU.

5) On March 14th, dear friends Wayne and Nancy Reigel, who are our agemates, will join us for about a month. Carol and I look forward to spending time with them in ministry and fellowship.

6) Please pray that we would soon be granted our Permanent Resident permits. We are able to apply for this status because of the length of time we have been living in Uganda. The application was made in December 2024, but this is a special process requiring a special committee to sit and review the application, and it’s taking longer than we expected. Currently, we are renewing tourist visas at our nearby border checkpoint with South Sudan every 3 months until we can receive the other permits.

And lastly, Carol and I are GREATLY rejoicing over our 10th grandchild, Silas Henri Lee, born on February 4th.

Praise the Lord!

What we do now in the Lord and for Him will have an eternal impact for His praise and honor; all else is fleeting!

May God’s blessing in and through Christ Jesus flow to you and your family throughout 2025! We are very thankful for your prayers, encouragement and sacrificial gifts which keep us pushing forward for the glory and fame of our King and Savior Jesus!

RAU Donation page information:

https://reachingafricasunreached.org/donations/

Gratefully,

Jacob and Carol Lee

RAU Mission and Vision Statements:

https://reachingafricasunreached.org/about/

RAU Blog posts full of Carol’s pictures:

https://reachingafricasunreached.org/

RAU Mercy Ministry Page:

https://reachingafricasunreached.org/agriculture-project/

RAU”s YouTube Video Page:

https://www.youtube.com/@jacoblee2082/videos

RAU Donation page information:

https://reachingafricasunreached.org/donations

Carol and I are grateful to be Associate Missionaries with ABWE.

Video Interview: “What does it mean to be an Associate Missionary with ABWE?”: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2NIk9-mNdWk&t=12s

New Year Beginnings at Reaching Africa’s Unreached

On February 7, 2025February 21, 2025 By Jacob LeeIn Uncategorized

Life is not merely a fleeting vacation but an exhilarating short-term mission trip, filled with purpose and endless possibilities in and for Jesus!

“Therefore, we are ambassadors for Christ, God making his appeal through us. We implore you on behalf of Christ, be reconciled to God. For our sake he made him to be sin who knew no sin, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God.” 2 Corinthians 5:20-21

“You have heard me teach things that have been confirmed by many reliable witnesses. Now teach these truths to other trustworthy people who will be able to pass them on to others.” 2 Timothy 2:2

We thank God for the ministry opportunities He has given us in early 2025. Let me start with the latest ministry events and go back to the beginning of the new year.

The long-awaited first installment of over 6,120 of the 23,040 Africa Study Bibles (ASB) has finally arrived, and our hearts are overflowing with joy! We give all praise to God for this remarkable milestone! To date, we’ve raised an astounding $200,000. Our generous supporters through Oasis International, the publisher, have blessed us with $50,000, and the incredible donors from ChristianBook International Outreach have matched that gift with another $50,000, while RAU, through its beloved donors, has stepped in with an extraordinary $100,000! Despite the shifts in pricing since we first sought the Lord’s guidance to ignite hearts for these essential study Bibles, our mission remains unwavering. We are looking to God and HIS people to raise an additional $127,000 needed to bring all 23,040 copies to RAU. Because of the large donations from Oasis and ChristianBook International Outreach, the total for RAU is $227,000 with $100,000 already raised. This means the price for one Africa Study Bible for RAU donors is an incredible $9.85 for an Africa Study Bible. This includes all the shipping by container and ground transport to RAU! The primary recipients of this ASB will be church leaders who are well versed in English. If God blesses us with more dollars than needed for the ASBs, we commit to use the excess funds for local language Bibles or “Following Jesus: African Journey through the Book of Luke”. Discover more about the ASB here.

Will you join us in prayer and consider how you can help us secure the additional funds??? Please feel free to pass this on to your friends and churches who may be interested in helping.

February 13,2025 Update

Great news from our end! I’m thrilled to share an update about our determined mission to deliver 23,040 Africa Study Bibles (ASB) to RAU. As may know, we’ve received our first shipment of 6,120 ASBs! The second shipment of 10,520 ASBs had a funding requirement of $82,685. Thanks to generous donations the remaining balance for this second of three shipments is down to $23,880! Praise the Lord for His provision! Let’s keep our hearts united in prayer, steadfast in belief, and joyfully anticipate the arrival of these Bibles by faith.
Would you consider joining us in this noble endeavor to eliminate this balance completely?

Donation Information–> https://reachingafricasunreached.org/donations/

January 2024 and January 2025

On a related note, we are grateful to share that the 20,000 ESV paperback pew Bibles provided by Christianbook International Outreach (CIO) this past August have been successfully distributed. These precious Bibles have primarily reached students and church members who are proficient in English. As we’ve noted in previous newsletters, education in Uganda, from primary to university level, is conducted in English. Sadly, many in our community cannot afford a Bible, which highlights the incredible opportunity we have to share the Word of God. Furthermore, we are very grateful that CIO has committed to sending another 20,000 ESV paperback pew Bibles! What a wonderful blessing—thank you, CIO, and thank you, Jehovah!

Students with ESV Pew Bibles

All the French Bibles that Christianbook-International Outreach (CIO) generously sent us have finally arrived in the Northeastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) for church leaders and members. We are incredibly grateful. This is one of the boxes below. It reveals the challenging journey these Bibles endured! They are now in the hands of our Congolese brother and friend, who trained alongside us at RAU and is currently serving in Northeastern Democratic Republic of Congo. We give thanks to God for Samuel Misengile, who truly embodies 2 Timothy 2:2 in the DRC, and we are thankful for the support from CIO!

French Bibles for the Democratic Republic of Congo

On January 27th, we welcomed Steve Chew and Claude Durepo from Valley Bible Church Pleasanton California through MAF. They started their journey back to California from RAU on January 31st. The 28th-30th were filled with ministry. Claude and Steve were an encouragement to Carol and me as well as to our Aringa and Ma’di brothers and sisters in Christ.

Steve and Claude from Valley Bible Church

Monday, the 27th, we gave them a tour of the RAU campus and demo farm, shared about RAU’s primary vision and mission, and had refreshing fellowship over a meal that Carol had cooked. We first met Steve and Claude in 2022 when we visited Valley Bible Church (VBC), so it was great to catch up. Both Steve and Claude are on the VBC mission committee and came with the expressed purpose of seeing on the ground what RAU is doing, and then going back to VBC to give a report on how they can pray for RAU and us, and explore possible ways of support. Carol and I are so very grateful for cross-cultural, mission-minded churches like VBC!

With some of the Lodenga Church of Uganda members on a very hot Wednesday

We had an impactful day in Yumbe on Wednesday the 28th, actively ministering in a rural church located in Lodenga, Yumbe District, alongside our Aringa brothers and sisters in Christ. The church is notably surrounded by fervent Muslims. Several elder members recounted the remarkable story of how their church was founded during the era of Idi Amin, who originated from the nearby district. They candidly shared the many struggles and persecution they have faced over the years. Interestingly, prior to our arrival, the local Muslims had learned about our visit and convened a meeting right at the boundary of the church. I approached them with Charles, Carol, Steve, and Claude, greeting them in a warm local manner, engaging in conversation, and distributed our dual language gospel tracts. Carol has a special ability to connect with the women and she did with these women!

After a short and friendly exchange, two Muslim Clerics from foreign countries arrived as we were ending conversations to head back to our own meeting. There was a tangible difference in mood. Carol extended her hand to greet them, as is the common practice among all Aringa (even with Aringa Muslim men), but the greeting was not received. Instead, the foreigners used this opportunity to explain that men should only greet men and women greet only women. It was almost as if “the Pharisees” had arrived.

An earlier date at a Muslim friend’s home in Yumbe town.

We then returned to the Lodenga church for our meeting, where Steve and Claude offered heartfelt words of encouragement. I had the privilege of sharing insights from 1 Peter 3:13-18, all while the loudspeakers from our Muslim neighbors sounded in our ears. Afterward, we enjoyed a lovely meal with our church family. Following the meal, we made our way to the home of our dear friend and co-worker, Onduga Charles, an Aringa, who generously shared more about the rich history of the Aringa church—its growth, the challenges they’ve faced, and the inspiring vision he and RAU have for its future. Together, we are united in prayer and purpose, striving to lift the Aringa out of the “unreached category” through dedicated gospel proclamation and the walking out of 2 Timothy 2:2 more and more on the ground, long-term in Yumbe District! This is my new nickname for Charles, my Aringa Macedonian man.

Upon returning home from Yumbe, my Macedonia man, shared a stirring report he received from one of the church elders of Lodenga! He shared how, after our departure, the two foreign “Muslim clerics” approached the church after encircling the church while reciting incantations. With brashness, they demanded that church leaders and the Christians there to convert to Islam, threatening to do everything in their power to extinguish the church’s presence if they did not! The church elder has reported this to the Yumbe police. After fervent prayer and counsel with Charles and the courageous elders of Lodenga, we “concluded” (see Acts 16:10) to return to Lodenga in the upcoming weekend. The Spirit has stirred the hearts of five other local churches to unite with us! We will delve into Scripture, exploring what the Word says to those enduring persecution and suffering for their faith and also study Jesus story of the unforgiving servant. As evening falls, I will preach from the roof of my Land Cruiser, my beloved pulpit, in a nearby football (soccer) field! When it is dark, we’ll share the Jesus film in Aringa, spreading the light of Jesus through the book of Luke. Then, on Sunday morning, we will lift our voices in jubilant worship with the six churches and hear the Word proclaimed. I will be bringing Bibles and Christian literature to strengthen the churches. Please fervently pray for us during this pivotal time, for what Satan has intended for evil, God has transformed into a powerful gathering of His church in praise and worship!

With news from home on the 29th, I woke up to this: my brother and sister found my second youngest brother Jeff dead at his home. He seemed to have died while taking a nap…beside him was an open Bible. I have now lost my two of my three brothers and mom while living in Uganda. I am grateful that all three were believers. I take great comfort in that.

Later in the morning on the 29th, we entered the northern section of the nearby remote area of the Metu Mountains with Steve and Claude, along with Pastor Henry and Tiondi, who are RAU co-workers. After meeting and picking up our Metu Mountain coordinator, Pastor Tobious, we visited three church plants. These churches were planted in conjunction with Aya Baptist Church from 2016-2017. Then, on the 30th, we visited four separate churches in the southern section of the Metu Mountains. Both days involved walking beyond where the Land Cruiser could go. The 30th had us going into the pristine Oku/Lea valley. The climb back up the hills is very, very steep and rugged. It is getting harder and harder for these 69-plus-year-old legs to make that walk–“but God” continues to give the strength. These hills really put the Land Cruiser to the test as well. Without it, it would be difficult to get to these locations.

Video of the Land Crusier on a Metu Mountain road: https://www.facebook.com/steve.chew.33/videos/1110044827468776

Pray for the Land Crusier to keep us going with the gospel. You gifts help us keep this gospel machine going!

Steve and Claude offered words of encouragement and shared insights from the Bible in each Metu Mountain church we visited. I also shared short messages from the Word of God in each church. One of RAU’s core convictions is that we are here to work alongside local churches in our evangelism, church planting, and discipleship, never in isolation from them.

We have witnessed numerous new births and baptisms. Despite being asked on many occasions, I abstain from performing baptisms. I firmly believe that this public confession of faith should take place within the context of the local church’s vibrant life. However, I do have the privilege of preaching at water banks, which is a significant opportunity.

Shortly after the Lord birthed the Cinyi Community Church deep in the remote Metu Mountains 9 years ago, I went to see where the Cinyi community members were getting their water. It was important as there were so many health issues, especially among the children. When I saw where they were getting the water, I even wondered why there were not more illnesses.

Soon thereafter, the Lord opened a way for us to find water and drill a well. Since then, they have had clean water, and they have maintained the borehole. The health of the community changed drastically, and the door was opened more for Gospel proclamation. However, when I visited the church in December 2024, the elders informed me that the pipes were pulled, and many holes were found. They were told it was because of the iron in the water. The many times I drank from it, I could taste it but did not think much of it. So they were back at the hole collecting water…

Praise God for the loving donors who gave to RAU. Stainless steel pipes have now been installed and Cinyi church and community started enjoying clean water on News Years Day! Steve and Claude were able to drink from it! By God’s grace through his loving people RAU has put in 25 boreholes( water wells) in places lacking clean water.

Carol has been working very hard with Caesar translating ABWE’s Good Soil “Story of Hope” into Ma’di. “The Message of Hope” has already been translated into Aringa. Madi and Aringa are the two main language groups we work with. There are many other language groups that we work with, but Ma’di and Aringa are the ones we work with the most. Please pray for her and Caesar.

I had the opportunity in January to teach at two youth conferences. One was in Yumbe town at Pilgrim Church with Aringa youth, and the other in a smaller church in our nearby Fodia with Ma’di youth. In Yumbe, I had the morning and afternoon in one of their five days. In Fodia, I had one session two days later. Each attendee in both conferences received an ESV Pew Bible and The Epic Story of the Bible by Greg Gilbert. In addition, in Yumbe, they received Good Soil/ABWE Message of Hope in Aringa and English, and dual language Aringa-English tracts. What a joy to be with these young Aringa and Ma’di who are on fire for Jesus!

Through your heartfelt prayers, generous gifts, and unwavering monthly support, we wholeheartedly pledge to be faithful stewards of your incredible generosity. We especially appreciate every bit of increased monthly support! My (Jacob’s) transformative first journey to our current home took place in March 2007, and Carol’s and my permanent relocation in July 2013 marked the beginning of our journey as cross-cultural gospel workers. As long-term, on-the-ground missionaries, we have witnessed the Lord open countless doors, revealing the numerous possibilities for spreading love and hope.

A special note: A friend and pastor is requesting we sell one of our RAU older bodas (motorcycles) to him. We can replace the one we sell with a new boda for around $1,200. We use a boda to acquire things locally instead of taking the Land Cruiser. If anyone would like to give towards this we would be grateful.

Special Prayer Request: We are in the process of obtaining a 10-work permit or, if God wills, a permanent residence status. The latter is what we are hoping for. We can make this kind of application because of the number of years we have been working in Uganda.

A final note. Most missionary work often boils down to the relentless grind of “plodding” through mundane tasks to keep the wheels turning. One of Carol’s and my goals? Handing over a campus that’s not just functional but smoothly functioning in terms of maintenance issues. Take this video, for instance, a prime exhibit of that tedious plodding. One of the beautiful truths which came out of the Reformation is that all work done for God’s glory is “spiritual”.
Isn’t it interesting that this video follows the one showcasing the reception of over 6,000+ Africa Study Bibles and other ministry endeavors? Such sequencing is no mere coincidence.

Thank you to our supporters for coming alongside us !