Let your steadfast love, O Lord, be upon us, even as we hope in you.

Psalm 33:22

The simple yet truthful statement “God provides” can hold different meanings depending on the circumstances. Yet, it holds profound truth. We have especially witnessed this during our time in Uganda, and have specifically thanked God for his continued provision during the 2019/2020 school year at the seminary.

Seminary life in Africa is hard. We do not say this to discourage, but rather to state the truth and share about what students endure. There are often great challenges that occur during the course of a school year that can bring discouragement and hardship. This ranges from financial commitments back home to being sick during the semester. Whenever we ask students how they are doing, a common reply is “I am here” and “God provides … Amen.” What can be seen as simple statements carry profound meanings. It acknowledges the challenges, yet clearly states God’s continued care and provision.

As Americans, it is not easy for us to hear about challenges. We often want to take charge and do something to help. Yet, as we continue to live in community with the Lutheran Church of Uganda, we see this is not the focal point. Instead, the focus is on Christ Jesus, being in community and sharing the burden together. Our actions are not in problem-solving, but instead listening, praying, acknowledging and enduring together.

This was especially true when a fourth-year seminary student from the seminary passed away on Christmas Day. Instead of trying to take away the hurt, we strive to be present with the community, to share in the heartache but also rejoice in the hope and promise of eternal life in Christ Jesus. We do not fix the problem. We do not take away the pain. Instead, we endure together. We put our hope in Christ who redeems us. We pray, praise and give thanks knowing that God provides … Amen.

Life and Mission Update

During the Christmas break, work continued on the Lutheran Theological College Uganda chapel/multi-purpose hall.

We are very thankful for the amazing supporters and donors through Mission Central and the LCMS that have generously given resources to bring the building to a usable level. It is exciting to see the new roof and the new stage that will be used for graduation this June. The Lutheran Church of Uganda (LCU) had people working on the building during the holiday season and the excitement is growing at the seminary and the local congregation, Our Savior Lutheran, as they prepare to transition over to the chapel building. As each building gets finalized at the Lutheran Theological College Uganda (LTCU), the LCU builds it with the intention of lasting 150 years. They want the buildings and ministries to be viable and used to serve God. We thank God for the various ways the building will be used for ministry for years to come!

Mark continues to serve alongside the principal of the LTCU and the LCU church leadership. His role entails working and mentoring the seminary’s Finance Administrator in the daily needs of the seminary. Some days this is planning the monthly budget and accounting for requisitions, while other days involve larger logistics for working towards stability and sustainability in funding. Megan proceeds to teach Christian education and counseling classes. She is also working with the church to add on a few more counseling courses to help prepare the seminary students for care giving in their home regions. We praise God that all of this work glorifies Him and gives opportunities to share the love of Christ with seminary students and community members alike.

Mark and Megan Mantey serve the Lord through The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod as career missionaries in Uganda. Mark serves as the project manager for the seminary, and Megan is the seminary’s instructor of Christian education and counseling. You can follow their work at www.facebook.com/MissionMindedManteys.