They broke bread in their homes and ate together with glad and sincere hearts.” — Acts 2:46
In Uganda, there’s a beautiful tradition that comes with moving into a new house. It’s not simply about stepping into a new space; it’s a day of gathering, celebrating, and being welcomed by everyone who’s helped along the way—friends, workers, neighbours, and anyone who has shared in the journey. As we experienced this tradition in our new home, I couldn’t help but see Acts 2:46 come to life around us.
“They broke bread in their homes and ate together with glad and sincere hearts.” This verse speaks to the beauty of people coming together to share not just a meal, but also joy, companionship, and a sense of community. Here in Uganda, that same spirit thrives. People take the time to connect, to sit together without rushing, and to enjoy each other’s company. In these moments, life feels full, meaningful, and deeply rooted in the joy of simply being together.
In the middle of the activity, there was no rushing or checking of clocks. As some of us peeled matooke and others chopped vegetables, people started to tell stories, laughing over shared memories and tales of their own homes and families. The familiar rhythms and gentle chatter reminded me of simpler days spent around my grandfather’s house, where everything took time, and yet, we never felt hurried. Here, in the heart of Uganda, I felt that same warm contentment, that simple joy that seems to pause time. As the hours rolled on, laughter and song began to ripple through the group. One person began to hum a tune, and before we knew it, everyone joined in, voices blending in Luganda songs as hands worked together. Preparing food became something to savour; we were more excited for the time spent together than even the feast itself. There’s a unique gift Ugandans have for celebrating life in the little things, for turning ordinary moments into shared joy.
When the food was finally ready, we moved to the veranda. This space we had only recently completed, now full of friends, felt like the heart of our new home. Plates were served, and our voices lifted in Luganda praises as we gathered to dance together, a chorus of gratitude filling the air. Then, in a beautiful and heartfelt gesture, one member of the community led a prayer for us, blessing our new home. He then welcomed us officially into the community, words that filled our hearts with gratitude, joy, and a deep sense of belonging.
Since the very beginning, we dreamed this place would be more than just walls and a roof. We envisioned a home where moments like these would be part of everyday life—a place where friends and family, neighbours and newcomers alike could gather, eat, sing, and share life’s joys and challenges together.
In the simplicity of that day, I felt deeply grateful, not just for the house we built, but for the life we’re building here. Acts 2:46 reflects so much of what life in Uganda teaches us: that true joy isn’t found in material things or busy schedules, but in the gift of community, in slowing down, in breaking bread together with glad hearts. The early Christians found their strength in each other, and it’s the same here. Every day, we are reminded that we’re not alone; we are surrounded by people who share in our joys, our struggles, and our prayers.
Whether you’re near or far, your support and presence mean so much, and we’re excited to continue sharing these moments with you…
from our Life Beyond the Banana Grove…
God bless you through all the ups and downs of running a school, a piggery and life in Uganda xx