The Angels of Progress
This week’s reflection
What do you want to do to connect to the loving Spirit inside of you and then to love and help other people more?
Share your thoughts below — and read what others are saying.
This week’s reflection
What do you want to do to connect to the loving Spirit inside of you and then to love and help other people more?
Share your thoughts below — and read what others are saying.
The first time the kids in both schools were given a question to ask when they were in meditation and prayer about progress—which we’re defining as being about reaching deeply within for love and then extending to the outer world in service—was on September 8, 2023.
(It’s important to note that this whole exercise is for the development of an interfaith program for children. So for teachers, when working with Christian children, feel free to use the word God for Source and Center, for Muslim parents or teachers, to use the word Allah, and so on for whatever holy name is used in yours and their spiritual paths for that loving presence inside.)🙏
But the first question for the kids to ask in themselves was how they felt when they connected with their Source and Center. What did they feel that presence told them deep in their hearts? Some of their answers are listed below:
From Tonny, founder and director of the Mushunga Community Project:
Here are the answers. l was also able to join this question because it’s nice and it does not mean that only kids can answer it. I am also a child of God.
Annitah: I feel what God is when I’m focused on Him.❤️
Vincent: I feel perfect peace.☮️
Ashiram: I feel joy in my self.😊
Racheal: l feel like l need to laugh seeing the goodness of God in me.😀
Godwin: I feel the holy spirit moving through me.💥
Aijuka: l feel happy and l feel like l want to jump and raise my voice higher.🏃🏾
Daniel: I feel like God is talking within me.👂
Gift: I feel like I can do lots of miracles.🧚🏼♀️
Ignitius: I feel happy and calm.☺️
Albert: I feel God is within around and he is surrounded me with my friends👩❤️💋👩
Ameria: I feel I have a lot of energy to praise and worship him.💥
Amogni: I feel that God is most precious.🩵
Ajuna: I feel God can heal any disease.😷
Anthony: I feel God is with in my heart and he is preparing a good future for me.🔥
Edward: I feel that God is always by my side.🌻
Peter: I feel that God’s spirit is within me and its walking around my body.👨👧
Angela: I feel l can do alot of things that God want me to do for the needy ones maybe like helping my little friends in class when they are getting closer to failing.❤️
Caroline: I feel alot of energy and peace.☮️
Elisha: l feel that my parents are in a peaceful world and they are fine and l feel that one day I will meet them.👨👩👦
Philemon: I feel that God is most precious and merciful to all people especially we like the orphans.💚
Dear Abuela l was also able to go through prayers and l reflected how l feel inside me here its is:
Tonny: I feel what God is when I’m focused on Him: love, perfect peace, joy (like I need to laugh) and happy because God keeps me company…I use to drop things a lot like a clumsy person and then God started catching them so I stopped dropping them, but I know it’s God catching the things that fall away from me and let’s me know He’s right here and that keeps me happy because nothing is too hard for God to do…and God talks to me through His creation and the weather or He just puts a thought in my mind or by a response that comes out of my mouth and I know it didn’t come from my knowledge🔥
A picture of Tonny Mutyekereze, the founder and director of the Mushunga Community Project and Victorious School
Isabirye Taliki, founder and director of Kamuli Concentric Circles Ministries and the Vine of Hope Foundation and Orphanage
These were answers to the question above from Isa and the kids at the Vine of Hope:
Luwazo Naluna:
What he felt when he was praying??
He felt a spiritual awareness, His mind and eyes being opened up to the Holy Bible.✝️
He said that he wants to read and share the word of God to his fellow children and that he wants some guidance over what to do.❤️
Here is Nabirye Mariam:
What she felt when we were praying 🙏??
She says that she felt a very different way. She likes helping her sisters in any way that she could and that’s what she prays for everyday–and that God help her and make it so.😇
The second time the kids were asked a question about progress was on October 10, 2023 and it was this: Imagine that your heart is a tree drawing deeply from the love you feel from the Source and Center, God, inside of you and extending its branches wide to protect everyone around you. What would it look like?
The answer from the kids at the Mushunga Community Project were:
Dorcas said that, “This tree looks like a huge tree with big branches which is the love of God and with great and sweet fruits which is the word of God.”🌳
Annitah said, “I would like that the tree should look or should have strong roots that go deep into God’s heart inside us.”❤️
Peter: “I would love to get love from God, and that love helps its branches grow wide.”🌴
Ashiram: “The tree gives love and shelter to the people around it.”💚
Vincent: “The tree is big and strong, like a superhero tree.”🏃🏾
Ritah: “It has colorful leaves that make us smile.”🍁
Ignitious: “Birds and butterflies come to visit the tree and sing happy songs.”🦋
Gift: “The tree gives shade and a cozy spot to rest.”🌴
Aijuka: “The tree grows bigger and taller every day, just like we grow.”🌿
Peace: “The tree shines with a special light, showing God’s love.”🌟
I sent Tonny, the director of the Mushunga Community Project, a painting I’d done of my own heart to share and encourage the kids to have fun with the idea of what their hearts could look like:
And they surprised me with their own drawings of it! Atuhaire’s:
Philmon’s:
Angella’s:
And Tukashemerewa’s:
The children from the Vine Of Hope pictured their hearts as these kinds of trees:
Luwazo; The tree grew up big and provided fruits around the community according to God’s love and will.🍎
Nkugwa: The tree 🌳 that shows love, light of God and his son to people around it.
Mariam: This tree would look like a sky, very big, and it provides people with rain 🌧, sunshine and shelter so they can enjoy living under It by the willing of God.🌴
Nbone said that the tree would look like that of a mango tree so that it can provide love by giving us fruits and also shade.🍑
Nambi said the tree would be so big so to provide a warm cozy spot to rest in.
Nabitaka: The tree 🌳 that welcomes every bird 🐦 🐦⬛ so that they can come and be with us.
Lubale: The tree can have branches with different colours to make our place shine with love ❤️
Mulondo: The tree would be very big, strong and with bigger shade where they can sit read, tell stories, eat from it and study the teachings of Jesus.🌅
The kids at the Mushunga Community Project enjoyed a great visit with friends from Spain who helped them answer their question in early January, 2024, which was: If you look around the room you can see that everyone in the room with you has a spark of God living within them. If you could say something to that spark of God that lives in other people, what would it be?
So the kids at Mushunga answered:
1. Gift said she would like to say to that spark of God that people are special because they have a spark of God inside them.🌟
2. Annitah said she would like to say that we should be kind and loving to others because God loves us all.❤️
3. Vincent said that he would like to say to that spark of God that when we are nice to others, it makes them happy and spreads joy.🤩
4. Peace would like to say that everyone has their own special talents and gifts given by God.🎨
5. Rachael would like to say that we should respect and listen to others because they are important too.👨🏻❤️💋👨🏿
6. Vanessa would like to say to that spark of God that forgiving others when they make mistakes is a way to show God’s love.😇
The Vine of Hope kids swimming at Christmas
And from the Vine of Hope:
These are the answers reflecting on what our children would most like to say to the spark of God that lives in the others which are close to us…
1. Nakima: I would most likely to say to that spark of God that loving each other makes God happy.👨🏻❤️💋👨🏿
2. Nakibuka: I would most likely to say to that spark of God that God tells us to do good and to always avoid the bad doing.😇
3. Nangobi Aisha: I would most like to say that forgiving others shows God’s love and brings love among us.❤️
4. Nakato: I would most like to say that respecting our elders shows God’s love.👨👨👧
5. Mwogezi: I would most like to say to that spark of God that we were all created in God’s image so we should not hate each other. 🩵
6. Nambi: I would most like to say to always remember to humble yourself and pray to our heavenly Father.🙏
7. Nabitaka: I would most like to say to him that we are all gifted with different talents to make the world more beautiful for each other.🎨
8. Lubale: I would most like to say to that spark of God that don’t join bad peer groups cause they lead to evil doings.👯♂️
9. Luwazo: I would most like to say to that spark of God that you always take time and thank God for all that he has done for us.🌟
10. Waiswa: I would most like to say that when we spread love and care to others it makes the world most amazing.🫶
At the Savannah Rose Rescue Home around Christmas time in 2023:
The kids at Savannah Rose answer the question regarding what you’d say to the spark of God that lives in everybody?:
1. Benjamin: “I’d say, ‘Thank you for making each of us unique, and let’s share our goodness with the world.'”😇
2. Kyatwike: “To the spark in others, ‘Embrace your light, and let’s brighten the world together.'”🌟
3. Florence: “I’d express, ‘May the spark within you guide us to kindness, understanding, and unity.'”👨🏻❤️💋👨🏿
4. Victor: “I’d say, ‘Let’s recognize the divine in each other and work together for a better tomorrow.'”🦋
5. Deziranta:”To the spark in others, ‘Let’s radiate love and make the world a more beautiful place.'”💖
6. Shalom: “I’d express, ‘May the spark of God in you bring peace, and may we share that peace with everyone.'”☮️
7. Mark: “I’d say, ‘Let’s use the spark within us to illuminate the darkness and spread joy.'”🌞
8. Salima: “To the spark in others, ‘Let’s cherish the goodness within us and create a harmonious world.'”🌺
9. Jerimiah: “I’d express, ‘May the spark of God within you inspire us to be compassionate and understanding.'”🩵
10. Christopher: “I’d say, ‘Let’s celebrate the divine spark in each other and build a community filled with love.'”🏙️
11. Rihana: “To the spark in others, ‘May your light shine bright, and let’s share our warmth with those around us.'”🌈
12. Erizeth: “I’d express, ‘Let’s appreciate the spark of creativity within us and bring positive change to the world.'”💥
13. Francis: “I’d say, ‘May the spark of God within you guide us to kindness, empathy, and a shared sense of purpose.'”🙏
Happiness is lunchtime at Mushunga:
On March 27, 2024, the kids were asked to envision a small door deep in their hearts, to open it and listen to what God
would tell them. These were the answers from the kids at the Mushunga Community Project:
1. Godwin K.: “After my prayer, I heard God telling me to always be kind to others and help those in need.”😇
2. Anitah N.: “Hi! During my prayer time, I felt God telling me to spread love and positivity to everyone around me.”❤️
3. Albert G.: “When I prayed, I heard God saying that it’s important to forgive others and treat everyone with respect.”🙏
4. Ameria A.: “God spoke to me during my prayer and told me to be brave and have faith in His plans for me.”💪🏽
5. Ajuna M.: “I listened carefully during my prayer, and God told me to be patient and trust in His timing.”⏰
6. Ignitius W.: “God spoke to me during my prayer time and told me to always be honest and speak the truth.”🙏
7. Ashiram S.: “Hey! During my prayer, I felt God telling me to be a good friend and show kindness to others.”👩❤️💋👨
8. Tobius A.: “When I prayed, I heard God saying that it’s important to be grateful for all the blessings in my life.🥰
9. Angella N.: “During my prayer time, I felt God telling me to use my talents to make a positive impact in the world.”🏅
10. Peter T.: “God spoke to me during my prayer and told me to be courageous and not be afraid of challenges.”🧗🏽
11. Rachael T.: “After my prayer, I heard God telling me to be kind and compassionate towards others.”👯♂️
12. Caroline T.: “During my prayer time, I felt God telling me to always be honest and truthful.”😇
13. Elisha T.: “When I prayed, I heard God saying that it’s important to love and forgive one another.”❤️
14. Philemon A.: “Hi! God spoke to me during my prayer time and told me to have faith and trust in Him.”🙏
15. Blessing A.: “During my prayer, I felt God telling me to be a light and bring joy to those around me.”🌞
16. Gift K.: “When I prayed, I heard God saying that it’s important to be generous and help those in need.👩❤️👨”
17. Rosette N.: “God spoke to me during my prayer and told me to be patient and trust His plans for me.💡”
18. Alex N.: “During my prayer time, I felt God telling me to be grateful for all the blessings in my life.”🙏
New shoes are a blessing at the Vine of Hope:
And these answers from the Vine of Hope:
1. Nangobi: I heard God telling me to be good to one another.😇
2. Nabitaka: I heard God telling me to always forgive the wrong doers.❣️
3. Nambi: God told me to help my friends with reading the stories of God.📚
4. Mwogezi: I heard God telling me to be kind and humble to each other.🙏
5. Nakato: God told me to respect the elders in the community.🧑🏼🦳
6. Nangobi Aisha: I heard God telling me to have faith and trust in him.🙏
7. Nakibuka: God told me to always be honest to everyone.👆🏼
8. Nakayima: I heard God telling me to appreciate anything from someone.👏
9. Mulondo: I heard God telling me to love and care for each another in the community.👯♂️
10. Lubale: God told me to be trustful and patient for the plans he has for me.💡
11. Luwazo: When I was in prayer I heard God telling me that I’m his son and he will always love me like other children in the world.🌍
12. Waiswa: When he opened that little door during my prayer, I heard God telling me to nice and generous to those around me.😇
13. Nbone: I heard God speaking to me during the prayer that I should always ask him for guidance and protection in life.👆🏼
14. Nkugwa: God told me to have a little time reading his words and praying in our heart to him.❤️
15. Twaha: I heard God telling me not to break the Ten Commandments.✝️
16. Makanika: God spoke to me during the prayers that I should always obey your parents or helpers.🧑🏼🦳
17. Mbweila: I heard God telling that he or she does what God says will go to heaven during prayers.⭐️
18. Nbone: God told me to love one another. ❤️
Opening a door inside:
The kids from the Savannah Rose Rescue Home felt these things when they opened the door inside:
1. Victor: I feel overwhelming love enveloping me. I hear a gentle voice speaking words of guidance.❤️
2. Shalom: I hear a soft whisper guiding me towards inner peace the more we pray in silence.🙏
3. Kyatwike: I feel a sense of purpose and direction.👆🏼
4. Jeremia :I feel the journey ahead won’t be that easy, as usual.🧗🏽
5. Benjamin: I’m curious and wonder about my life’s story.📚
6. Rihanna: I feel inspiration and creativity flowing through me. I hear a voice encouraging me to express myself authentically.🎨
7. Salima: I feel the vastness of God’s love surrounding me.⭐️
8. Florence: There is hope and renewal washing over me.🌞
9. Erizeth: I feel empowerment and confidence surging within me. I hear a voice affirming my worth and potential.👩❤️👨
10. Deziranta: I feel clarity and determination guiding my steps.👯♂️
11. Mark: I hear a voice offering solace and reassurance in times of trouble and learn that God is a beacon of hope, illuminating our path with love and guidance.💥
12. Christopher: I feel strength and stability rooted deep within me.💪🏽
13. Francis: I feel acceptance and love washing over me, hearing a voice affirming my identity as a beloved child of God.😇
Listening to the quiet voice of your Source and Center inside. What does it say?
On June 5, 2024, the teachers were asked to help the kids into a reflective and meditative place and within that the kids were to ask the question: “What is the quiet voice of God within me saying?”🙏
The kids at the Savannah Rose Home heard this:
Kyatwike “The quiet voice of God is telling me to be more generous and share what I have with others.”👥
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Rihana “I feel the quiet voice of God encouraging me to always be honest, even when it’s hard.”🗣️
Shalom: “The quiet voice of God is guiding me to be more helpful around the house.”🏠
Mark: “The quiet voice of God is reminding me to be patient with my younger siblings.”😇
Francis: “The quiet voice of God is telling me to listen carefully to my teachers and do my best in school.”🧑🏽🎓
Jeremiah “I hear the quiet voice of God saying to be respectful and kind to everyone I meet.”🙏
Victor: “The quiet voice of God is encouraging me to try new hobbies and discover my talents.”🎨
Christopher: “The quiet voice of God is telling me to be more forgiving towards my friends.”👯♀️
Flowrence “I feel the quiet voice of God asking me to pray more often and trust in His guidance.”🙏
Benjamin: “The quiet voice of God is guiding me to protect nature and be mindful of how I treat the environment.”🌿
Dezilanta: “The quiet voice of God is reminding me to be more courageous and stand up for what is right.”🌟
Erizeth: “I hear the quiet voice of God saying to help my parents with chores without being asked.”🪣
Salima: “The quiet voice of God is telling me to spread kindness and always be friendly to new people.”❤️
Listening and reflecting within:
The kids at the Mushunga Community Project heard this wisdom:
1- Godwin K: “The quiet voice of God is saying, ‘Be good and help my little sisters.'”🤱🏼
2- Anitah N: “The quiet voice of God is saying, ‘Share my toys with friends, and they will share with you too.'”🪆
3- Albert G: “The quiet voice of God is saying to be brave, and l should not be afraid, he is with me!”🥰
4- Ameria A: “The quiet voice of God is saying to Love my family and pets, and they will love me back.”❤️
5- Ajuna M: “The quiet voice of God is saying, ‘I Take care of the earth and animals, they are my friends!'”🌍
6- Ignitius W: “The quiet voice of God is saying to Be kind and help others. It makes everyone happy.”😇
7- Ashiram S: “The quiet voice of God is saying to believe in myself and try my best–I can do it!'”💪🏽
8- Tobius A: “The quiet voice of God is saying to forgive my friends and be nice. It clears my heart.”😇
9- Angella N: “The quiet voice of God is saying, ‘I Take care of my body and eat healthy food. It makes me strong!'”🌽
10- Peter T: “The quiet voice of God is telling me to listen to my teachers and obey them–they want the best for me.”🧑🏽🎓
11- Rachael T: “The quiet voice of God is saying to be happy and smile every day. It brightens the world.”😊
12- Caroline T: “The quiet voice of God is saying to protect the environment and keep it clean. It’s our home.”🌿
13- Elisha T: “The quiet voice of God is saying to practice sharing and being generous. It brings joy to others.'”👯♀️
14- Philemon A: “The quiet voice of God is saying to trust in God and have faith. He is always with you.'”🩵
15- Blessing A: “The quiet voice of God is saying to be grateful for what you have. It’s a blessing!”🙏
16- Gift K: “The quiet voice of God is saying, ‘Use your talents and skills to help others, it’s a gift.'”🎨
17- Rosette N: “The quiet voice of God is saying, ‘Love yourself and be confident, you are special!'”🎖️
18- Alex N: “The quiet voice of God is saying, ‘Always tell the truth and be honest. It builds trust.'”🗣️
Peaceful at the Vine of Hope:
At the Vine of Hope, they heard this wisdom from listening within:
1. Nangobi: That quiet voice of God in me is telling me to always be kind to one another.😇
2. Nabitaka: It is telling to be a good person who welcomes everyone.🥰
3. Nambi: That quiet voice of God is telling me to obey my elder sisters and brothers.🫂
4. Mwogezi: That quiet voice of God was saying to me that I should share anything with my brothers and sisters.👥
5. Nakoto: The voice of God told me to always preach the word of God to my little ones.🕍
6. Nangobi: That quiet voice of God is telling me to always worship God and influence the others.🙏
7. Nakibuka; I heard that quiet voice to God telling me to be honest.🗣️
8. Nakayima: That quiet voice of God was saying that I should not mistreat my brothers and sisters.👯♀️
9. Mulondo: I heard that quiet voice of God to always keep Mother Nature.🌿
10. Lubale: That quiet voice of God is reminding me to always forgive those to do us bad.❤️
11. Luwazo: That quiet voice of God is telling me to always support one another.🙌
12. Waiswa: It told me to always be a supportive friend to those in need.🫶
13. Nbone: That quiet voice of God reminded me to always take time and read stories of Jesus so that I keep on being a good child as Jesus used to.✝️
14. Nkugwa: That quiet voice of God told me to keep on spreading kindness to other.❣️
15. Twaha: It was telling me to always listen to my teachers while in class.🦻🏼
16. Makanika: That quiet voice of God is saying to me to encourage everyone to come together as one family.🧑🏽🍼
17. Mbweila: That quiet voice of God is telling me to always be more generous and learn so hard so that you can help others.📚
18. Mukose: It was telling me to care for one another.💚
Loving your spirit family at Mushunga:
On August 13, 2024, the kids were asked to take a moment and shut their eyes and check in to see if they feel like they have been making progress in terms of connecting to God on the inside and loving their brothers and sisters more on the outside. If so, how did they feel it? ❤️😇❤️
The kids at Mushunga were feeling it like this:
1. Godwin K.: “I feel happy when I pray to God. I see a bright light in my heart, and it makes me love my friends more.”🌟
2. Anitah N.: “I feel like I’m getting better at sharing my toys with my brothers and sisters. It makes me feel nice and close to God.”🧸
3. Albert G.: “When I’m quiet and listen to my heart, I feel God’s love. It’s like a warm hug that makes me want to hug my friends too!”👂🏼
4. Ameria A.: “I see God’s beauty in flowers and trees. It makes me feel peaceful and want to be kind to everyone.”🌸
5. Ajuna M.: “I feel like I’m trying harder to be good and listen to my parents. It makes me feel proud and closer to God.”🤱🏼
6. Ignitius W.: “When I help my friends, I feel happy and think God is smiling at me.👬
7. Ashiram S.: “I feel God’s love when I sing songs and pray. It’s like a happy feeling that fills my heart.”🎼
8. Tobius A.: “I see God in the sunshine and feel happy. It makes me want to play nice with my friends.”🌞
9. Angella N.: “I feel like I’m getting better at saying sorry when I do something wrong. It makes me feel clean and close to God.”😔
10. Peter T.: “When I’m quiet, I hear God’s whisper telling me to be kind. It makes me feel special.”😇
11. Rachael T.: “I feel happy when I share my food with my friends. It makes me feel like God is happy too.”🥭
12. Caroline T.: “I see God’s beauty in my friends’ smiles. It makes me feel happy and want to smile too.”😊
13. Elisha T.: “When I pray, I feel like God is holding my hand. It makes me feel safe and loved.”🙏
14. Philemon A.: “I feel like I’m trying harder to be kind to my siblings. It makes me feel happy and close to God.”👫
15. Blessing A.: “I feel God’s love when I receive hugs from my friends. It makes me feel special and loved.”🫂
16. Gift K.: “When I help my grandmother , I feel happy and think God is proud of me.”👩🏾🦳
17. Rosette N.: “I feel like I’m getting better at saying thank you. It makes me feel happy and close to God.”🙏
18. Alex N.: “I see God in the stars at night. It makes me feel small but loved.”⭐️
Loving your spirit family at the Vine of Hope:
The kids at the Vine of Hope were feeling spiritual progress in these ways:
1. Mulondo; I feel happy when God shows me how to continue loving my little ones.🧑🏽🍼
2. Lubale; I feel good when I pray to God and he tells me to always be a good boy.😇
3. Luwazo; Whenever I pray I always listen to God’s message to me and it makes me feel good.👂🏼
4. Waiswa; God’s messages guiding me how to treat my little ones always makes me happy whenever I connect to him.🧑🏽🍼
5. Nbone; I feel happy when I pray to God. I see our life changing every day.🙏
6. Nkugwa; Being kind and friendly makes me feel happy and being loved by God.❤️
7. Twaha; I feel so much better and calm whenever I pray and feel my soul connecting with God and he directs me what to do. ☺️
8. Manika; When I pray and share my things with my family it makes me and God to feel happy.👫
9. Mbweila; When I pray I feel God’s power through me to my sisters and brothers and that makes me feel good.🌟
10. Nangobi Mariam; I feel good and I feel like God is telling me how to care for my family.🧑🏽🍼
11. Nabitaka; Connecting to God is one of the beautiful things that I get whenever I pray cause he always shows me what to do.👉🏽
12. Nambi; when I pray God tells me how to keep my brothers and sisters strong during hard time.💪🏽
13. Mwogezi; I feel God next to me whenever I’m doing anything and it makes me feel supported.👥
14. Nakato; I see God when I close my eyes and listen to what he tells me and it has help me to stay calm towards everyone.🙏
15. Nakayima; I feel Good that connecting to God he has always led me through everything.🌠
16. Nakibuka; I feel happy and God is being so proud of me when I do what he says.🏅
17. Nangobi; I feel welcome when I pray to God asking for something for my brothers and sisters 🙏 and he answers my prayer.
The kids at Savannah Rose playing music together:
The kids at Savannah Rose are feeling their progress in these ways:
1. Rihana:
“I feel calm when I pray. I’ve been sharing my toys more with my brothers and sisters.”🧸
2. Erizetth:
“I hear a little voice in my heart that helps me make good choices. I’m trying to be nicer and not get mad so easily.”👂🏼
3. Salima:
“I feel happy when I sing songs to God. I’ve been helping my little sisters with their homework.”🎼
4. Jeremiah:
“When I pray, I feel like God is making me strong inside. I try not to get angry at my brothers and talk to them instead.”💪🏽
5. Victor:
“I feel God with me when I’m outside. I’ve been helping out more at home without being asked.”🌴
6. Christopher:
“I feel warm and safe when I pray. I’m trying to listen better to my brothers and sisters and not interrupt them.”🙏
7. Flowrence:
“I trust God more now, especially when I’m worried. I’ve been sharing my toys and letting my siblings play with me.”👯
8. Benjamin:
“When I help others, I feel like God is happy with me. I’m trying to be more patient with my little brother and sister.”😇
9. Kyatwike:
“When I pray, I feel peaceful like God is listening to me. I’m learning to say sorry and not fight with my brothers.”😔
10. Mark:
“I feel close to God when I read Bible stories. I’ve been sharing my snacks with my friends and brothers.”🥭
11. Francis:
“I feel like God is with me when I’m quiet and think. I’ve been helping my siblings when they need something.”☺️
12. Desilanta:
“I feel like God is guiding me when I have to decide something. I’m trying to be kind by saying nice things and helping out.”😇
13. Shalom:
“I feel close to God when I pray before bed, and it helps me sleep better. I’ve been checking on my brothers and sisters to make sure they’re okay.”🙏
Loving Ideas:
On October 22, 2024, We worked with introducing the kids more fully into the idea that God always waits for humans to invite him into sharing their inner experiences. So even though he’s always present and at work in their minds to help give them choices over how to think or act—he’s still very respectful about waiting for that invitation into a more conscious relationship.
So, working with the divine value of love, they were asked to reflect on this question: “What’s a loving idea or action I’m thinking about today that I’d really like to share with God?”❤️😇❤️
The loving kids at Mushunga:
The kids at Mushunga wanted to share these loving ideas with God:
*Godwin K.*
“Today, I want to share with God that I want to hug my grandmother and tell her ‘I love you’ because she always takes care of me. I want God to help me be kind to everyone like my Grandmother is.”👩🏾🦳
*Anitah N.*
“I’m thinking about sharing my toys with my friends during recess. I want to show love like God shows us love. I want God to help me be generous and make everyone smile.”🪆
*Albert G.*
“I want to draw a picture for God with lots of hearts and colors. It will say ‘I love You, God.’ I want God to see how much I care about Him.”❤️
*Ameria A.*
“Today, I want to help my little sister with her homework. I want God to guide me to be patient and kind, just like He is with us.”👯♂️
*Ajuna M.*
“I’m thinking about saying sorry to my friend whom I accidentally pushed yesterday. I want God to help me be a good friend and show love even when I make mistakes.”😔
*Ignitius W.*
“I want to share with God my love for animals. I want to take care of our family dog and make sure he has food and water. God loves all creatures, and I want to love them too.”🐴
*Ashiram S.*
“I want to make a card for my grandma and write ‘I love you.’ She always tells me stories about God’s love. I want God to bless her with happiness.”✍🏼
*Tobius A.*
“Today, I want to invite God to play soccer with me. I want to run and laugh with my friends and feel happy, knowing God is watching over us.”⚽️
*Angella N.*
“I’m thinking about giving my favorite book to my friend who doesn’t have many books. I want God to show me ways to share love through sharing what I have.”📘
*Peter T.*
“I want to tell God about my dream to help people in need. I want to grow up and build houses for those who don’t have homes. God will guide me to make it happen.”🏠
*Rachael T.*
“I want to sing a song for God with my friends during music time. Our voices will say how much we love Him. I want God to hear our happy voices.”🗣️
*Caroline T.*
“Today, I want to share with God my love for flowers. I want to plant more flowers in our garden and watch them grow with God’s help.”🌸
*Elisha T.*
“I’m thinking about being kind to my brother even when he annoys me. God wants us to love each other, and I want to make Him happy.”🫂
*Philemon A.*
“I want to draw a picture of God’s love surrounding our family. I want God to protect and bless us always.”🩵
*Blessing A.*
“Today, I want to say thank you to God for my family and friends. I’m grateful for the love we share, and I want God to know how much I appreciate it.”🙏
*Gift K.*
“I want to share with God my love for learning. I want to study hard and make God proud of me.”🧑🏽🎓
*Rosette N.*
“I’m thinking about writing a poem about God’s love. I want to express how much love fills my heart when I think of Him.”💚
*Alex N.*
“I want to tell God about my wish to make everyone smile. I want to be a clown and spread joy and laughter, showing God’s love through happiness.”😃
More loving ideas to share from within:
More loving ideas to share with God come from Savannah Rose after deep reflection:
Jeremiah: “I want to help my friends when they are sad and let them know they’re not alone.”🫂
Victor: “I’d like to share a smile with everyone I meet because smiles make people feel happy.”😃
Shalom: “I want to thank God for my family and wish them lots of love every day.”🧑🏽🍼
Christopher: “I feel love when I take care of the plants in the garden, and I’d like to share that with God.”🌱
Flowrence: “I want to help my younger sister with her studies and show her kindness.”😇
Benjamin: “I think about helping others carry heavy things, so they don’t get too tired.”💪🏽
Desilanta: “I’d like to share my dream with God to help all children go to school happily.”🧑🏽🎓
Rihana: “I feel love when I sing songs to make others feel joyful, and I want to share that with God.”🎼
Erizetth: “I want to help feed people who are hungry and make sure everyone has food.”🥗
Kyatwike: “I feel love when I make sure my friends have someone to talk to when they are lonely.”👯♂️
Mark: “I want to share my hope with God for a peaceful world where everyone can play together.”🌍
Salima: “I’d like to share my love for my family and friends and hope that everyone feels safe.”❤️
Francis: “I feel close to God when I show respect to my elders and help them whenever I can.”👩🏾🦳
Nangobi Aisha at the Vine of Hope:
The kids at Vine of Hope wanted to share these loving ideas with God:
1. Mulondo; I would really like to share with God the heart of caring for others in need.😇
2. Lubale; I’d like to share with God my idea of expanding love to everyone.❤️
3. Luwazo; I’d like to share my dream of working as a good example in our community.🙌🏾
4. Waiswa; I want to share my idea of becoming a preacher with God so that he can help me make it through.✝️
5. Nbone; I’d like to share my idea of making toys to God.🪆
6. Nkugwa; I’d like to share with dream of being a volunteer with God so that he can give me more opportunity to make it.🧑🏽🍼
7. Twaha; I’d like to share my action of keeping peace with God.☮️
8. Makanika; I would like to share with God the act of creating and keeping more greens in the country.🌿
9. Mbweila; I’d really like to share with God on how I read stories to my friends and they feel good.📘
10. Nakayima; I thought of helping my sisters and brothers on how to praise through singing and I want to share it with God.🎼
11. Nakibuka; Loving and caring for everybody is what I thought of and I’d really want to share it with God.👯♂️
12. Nangobi; Forgiving those who do bad to us is the action I really want to share with God.🙏
13. Nakato; I thought on how it could be when we join a public school and I’d really want to share it with God so that he can help us.🧑🏽🎓
14. Mwogezi; I’d really like to share with God on what I thought that it could be better once we all give ourselves to him.🩵
15. Nambi; I thought of, if we could all start farming there will be no shortage of food in the whole world.🌽
16. Nabitaka; I’d like to share the teaching of God to everyone because they keep us safe from evil.🌠
17. Nangobi Mariam; I thought about loving the teaching of Jesus Christ among the little ones and I know God loves it so much.✝️
The heart as a tree in 2025:
Since we were working with the Angels of Progress and were in a new year, I thought to have the kids go to
prayer and really check in on that tree growing inside of their hearts. Have the roots gone deeper, closer
to God, and are the branches wider out to their brothers and sisters? What did they see when they reflected on this?
A special place at Savannah Rose to grow the heart of being a working angel:
The kids at Savannah Rose visualize their hearts as trees like this, going into 2025:
It’s such a precious idea to encourage the children to reflect on the tree growing in their hearts this week. Here is what they shared when they checked in with their roots and branches:
1. Rihanna: “I see my tree with strong roots and flowers blooming everywhere because I’ve been helping others more.”🌸
2. Kyatwike: “My tree is growing deep because I pray every day, and the branches are hugging everyone I love.”🫂
3. Christopher: “The roots are deep, but the branches are still small. I need to help my friends more to make them grow wider.”❤️
4. Benjamin: “My tree has leaves shining like gold because I feel God’s love making me strong.”☀️
5. Flowrence: “The roots are reaching water, and the branches are giving fruit to my sisters and brothers.”💦
6. Victor: “I see my tree strong like a big mango tree that gives sweet fruit to everyone around.”🥭
7. Jeremiah: “The roots are deep, but I want the branches to reach even more people this year.”🌳
8. Desilanta: “My tree is dancing in the wind with God’s blessings, and I’m trying to spread kindness to others.💨”
9. Mark: “I see my tree growing beside others so we can share the same sunlight.”☀️
10. Francis: “My branches are like arms holding onto everyone I care for, and my roots are strong because I believe in God.”😇
11. Salima: “The roots are deep in the ground, drinking all the good lessons I learn, and the branches are giving shade to my friends.”👯♀️
12. Shalom: “My tree is big, full of fruits, because I feel like I’ve been doing my best to be close to God.”🍑
13. Erizeth: “The roots are growing fast because I’m trying hard to pray more and be good to my brothers and sisters.”🙏
Beginning the new year with fun at Mushunga:
The kids at Mushunga had these beautiful things growing in their hearts as Trees:
*Godwin K.*
Godwin: “I saw a big tree with many fruits! The roots went down to God’s heart, and the branches went up to the sky, touching my friends’ hands.”🙌🏾
*Anitah N.*
Anitah: “My tree has flowers! They smell so good, and they make me happy. The roots are strong, and they hold my tree tight, so it doesn’t fall.”🌸
*Albert G.*
Albert: “I saw a tree with a swing! I was swinging high up in the air, and I felt free. The roots were like big arms, hugging the earth.”🫂
*Ameria A.*
Ameria: “My tree is tall! It touches the clouds, and I can see angels flying around it. The roots are like a big, cozy bed, where I can rest.”⛅️
*Ajuna M.*
Ajuna: “I saw a tree with many birds! They were singing sweet songs, and they made me smile. The roots were like a big, strong hand, holding the tree steady.”🕊️
*Ignitius W.*
Ignitius: “My tree has a door! I opened it, and I saw a bright light inside. The roots were like a big, soft carpet, leading me to the door.”🚪
*Ashiram S.*
Ashiram: “I saw a tree with many toys! They were hanging from the branches, and they made me laugh. The roots were like a big, happy smile, spreading joy.”🧸
*Tobius A.*
Tobius: “My tree is colorful. It has red, blue, and green leaves, and they shine like jewels. The roots are like a big, strong anchor, keeping the tree safe.”🌈
*Angella N.*
Angella: “I saw a tree with a book that was hanging from a branch, and it told me stories. The roots were like a big, cozy library, where I can read and learn.”📖
*Peter T.*
Peter: “My tree has a bell that rings sweetly, and it calls my friends to come and play. The roots are like a big, happy heart, beating with love.”🔔
*Rachael T.*
Rachael: “I saw a tree with a river! It flowed gently, and it quenched my thirst. The roots were like a big, soft blanket, wrapping me in comfort.”🏞️
*Caroline T.*
Caroline: “My tree has a crown that shines brightly, and it makes me feel like a queen. The roots are like a big, strong foundation, holding me steady.”👑
*Elisha T.*
Elisha: “I saw a tree with a ladder that reached up high, and it helped me climb to the top. The roots were like a big, helping hand, lifting me up.”🪜
*Philemon A.*
Philemon: “My tree has a song that sings sweetly, and it fills my heart with joy. The roots are like a big, happy dance, moving to the rhythm.”🎶
*Blessing A.*
Blessing: “I saw a tree with a gift! It was wrapped beautifully, and it surprised me with delight. The roots were like a big, generous giver, sharing love and kindness.”💝
*Gift K.*
Gift: “My tree has wings that fly high up in the air, and it takes me on adventures. The roots are like a big, strong wind, lifting me up and carrying me forward.”🪽
*Rosette N.*
Rosette: “I saw a tree with a mirror that reflected my smile, and it showed me my beauty. The roots were like a big, gentle hug, embracing me with love.”😄
*Alex N.*
Alex: “My tree has a friend that stands beside me, and it keeps me company. The roots are like a big, strong bond, connecting us together in friendship.”👫