Dec. 31, 2025 – Happy New Year - 2026

 Ministry Partners,

I am enjoying a day of rest in Mbale, Uganda, on the final day of 2025 after a wonderful buffet breakfast where my choices were: a sm. omelet with cheese, 1- sm. beef sausage, potatoes, pineapple, croissant and tea with varied pastries, a banana and yogurt for later.  

“As the sun shines outside my window, I’m reminded of how precious this season is — a time when people gather close, reflect on God’s goodness, and look ahead with expectation. What a wonderful moment for us to pause and thank God for everything He brought us through this past year — and to lift our faith for the marvelous things He will do in the year to come.

When the clock strikes midnight, I encourage you to take a moment to open your mouth and fill it with thanksgiving. Thank Him for His grace, His glory, His power, His anointing, and His favor resting on your life. Thank Him for the victories yet unseen, the breakthroughs on their way, and the answers to prayer He is already orchestrating.

I am believing with you for a year overflowing with God’s goodness — a year of divine direction, supernatural strength, and abundant peace. As we step into a brand-new year together, I want you to know that I am thinking about you.”RR

Happy New Year, ministry partners. The IRM team and I love you, we thank God for you, and we are honored to stand in faith with you as we enter this new season of 2026 together.

That none would be lost,

Arlene

Dec. 30 – I broke into tears today - Mbale Main Men’s & Women’s Prison

 Ministry Partners

Goodness did it ever rain last night, which meant everything at the prisons would be muddy today and it was. Breakfast was a very good buffet so I had no trouble of finding enough to eat.  

 

 No electric washing machine here 

The prisons were close, 20 min. away, but the phone GPS sent us to the Remand Prison so we had to make numerous stops to ask boda-boda (motorcycle) drivers directions. We finally arrived at the prison about 30 min late arriving at Mbale Main with 1,600 prisoners, but we were given a warm welcome. The officer who was given charge over us was a very friendly fellow and said he was also a Bishop. When we walked to the huge soccer field we observed that a number of prisoners were already in the small covered area, singing loudly with the accompanying keyboard. Alfred asked them to move everything outside so more inmates could be accommodated, which they were glad to do. After a bit, a small double tent was brought over to provide shade for the team and some prisoners. The remaining prisoners sat in chairs just outside the tent and others just stood.

We were about to start when the “bell” rang and prisoners scrambled to get in rows to be counted. They were far more precise than yesterday and even had the Remand Prisoners (those without a trial yet) separate from those in current trial and those convicted. Finally, we started but I had to have Alfred tell the keyboard inmate not to play every time I finished a paragraph. We were able to finish our crusade without any further interruptions. I was so glad the Alfred and Aaron were able to translate into Luganda for me because they are so fast. The inmates responded well to the salvation, forgiveness invitations as well as the apology message.

The officer that stayed with us told the O.C. that our program was exceptional. 

Then it was time to go to the women’s prison of 165. We were greeted by the Social Affairs Officer who was a Mu..im with her head wrap on. I was pleased that she sat through our complete program. Most all the women responded to every invitation but I must admit I had a hard time holding it together at this prison as it was the final prison crusade in Uganda for this trip. As I said my “Goodbyes” I broke into tears and Alfred closed with prayer. At my age, I never know what God’s plan is for me so the final crusade in every country on every trip is difficult for me.

I am thankful we still have ministry in Kenya to do before I return home. Tomorrow is an actual rest day but we still need your prayer covering.

That none would be lost,

Arlene

Dec. 29 – I gave her my glasses – Kumi Prison

 Ministry Partners, 

Goodness, what a good night’s rest I had last night. My usual sleep pattern is to go to bed and then get up every 2 – 2 ½ hours before finally rising at 6 – 6:30 but last night’s sleep told me just how tired I was as I did not wake up once but slept straight through until 6:30. Thanks for your prayers.

We had a good breakfast of Rolex’s, potatoes, pineapple, squares, yogurt, and tea. The guys added the local foods including peas, eggplant and beet juice but I passed on those.

During our travels, we saw two of these Hindu Temples being built.

“You Are Chosen

By whose measurement or standards do you evaluate your value? The Lord has specifically chosen you for a specific work in His kingdom (1Thess. 4: 4). We are not to think more highly of our selves than we ought but soberly for we were broken, disfigured and defiled by sin but He saw we were of some useful purpose and capable of working wondrously and redeemed us. He expects total surrender and dedication from you to Him for that work He has not only chosen us but molded us for our specific task. We are His workmanship created in Christ Jesus unto good works (Eph. 2: 10)”. (DK & GSM)

Our drive to Kumi was 2 ½ hours but we arrived before noon. The Deputy O.C. welcomed us and had us go inside where we, and the inmates, were seated under a tree. Some were on benches before me and in the open area behind the tree. We were about to start our crusade when the bell rang and the inmates had to go back to their “wards” to be counted. It was not an orderly, quick, count like the ones we have observed at other prisons.

Then the 14 women prisoners entered and sat on benches to my right. But an officer came in and said, in front of the prisoners, that they had lunch ready and did we want to start and then take a break OR let them eat and then have our crusade. Of course, I was not about to make them wait to eat, hungry as they must have been. I told him to have them eat first, we would wait. We were able to observe a lot of things as we waited. Like, how a couple the men prisoners (mainly one M…im) were allowed to converse with a couple of the women prisoners and when they also brought food for the women, how four women would not eat. We watched as the other women kept picking “something” out of the food and throwing it on the ground. It was sad to watch.

The young prisoner who translated into Ateso for me did a good job and the prisoners responded to all the invitations, Salvation, Forgiveness and Apologizing. At the end, I gave the women all a donated scarf, there were no children there. Then a man and a women prisoner gave a testimony. The man said he had heard all kinds of preachers but today I broke into his heart.

The elderly woman inmate said how the Forgiveness message had influenced her and then held up her bible while saying, “But I can no longer see to read my bible.” I told her that I had a pair of reading glasses in the van and I was not sure they would help her but I would get them. When we went outside I got the glasses and started to go back inside but the women were coming out to return to their area. I stopped her and gave her the glasses but she put them on right up to her eyes. I pulled them down a bit on her nose to show her how to use them and as I did, she opened her bible and started reading aloud. Two guards standing there said, “She’s reading.” to the other guards standing nearby the rest of the inmates. Oh dear Jesus, how do I ever thank you enough for letting me come to Africa again and continue this wonderful prison ministry. It was a very good day.

Then we drove to Mbale where we will stay for 3 nights before going to Kenya. Our Uganda mission actually ended today as we have completed the 49 authorized prison crusades and 1 village church crusade but when Alfred realized we now had two days with no ministry because our Kenya trip was rescheduled by Chaplin Edward to start on Jan. 2, 2026 instead of Dec. 31,2025. Alfred called the O.C. of the local prison here in Mbale and asked if we might come to his prison tomorrow and do a crusade to which he said “Yes” but when he called the O.C. of the women’s Prison she said “No”.

Although prison officials are on Christmas break Alfred called Commissioner of Prisons, Jacob Kivumbi and he intervened for us by calling the Mbale Women’s Prison O.C. who then called Alfred and told him we could come tomorrow for a crusade.

Christmas and New Year’s is not a good time to find lodging although we found rooms at a hotel, they were not very good and I could not get internet in my room. So even though it cost more we moved into a better part of the hotel where I could get good internet.

I have had dinner and as soon as I finish this blog, I will shower and get to bed since it is already 9:30.

Please continue to pray for the inmates and for us.

That none would be lost,

Arlene

Dec. 28 – Elute Farm Prison

 Ministry Partners,

Today was a late start since we do not have to be at the prison until 2 and it was only twenty minutes away.

Breakfast was ok with scrambled eggs, potatoes, crescent rolls and tea. There was also a good looking cooked spinach with onion dish but because I discovered that my tummy did not like the spinach here I have learned not to eat it although I like it, it is similar to Swiss chard.  

There is a mechanic under our van checking it out.

It seems like a reoccurring story but after breakfast, the guys had to take off to have the undercarriage of the van checked because of a very loud “bang” noise that was heard while driving the other day. They tried to check it out themselves but found nothing. Alfred said the mechanic said that the bad roads have affected the springs.

I generally do not take naps but today I took about a 40 min. nap before we left for the small farm prison. We arrived and were greeted by the O.C. who had the prisoners ready. We could hear the loud singing and drum playing when we arrived and one inmate was playing a large Adungu. The inmates were seated in front of me under a small metal roof canopy while others were alongside a long building to my right, others were seated alongside the building to my left and even more prisoners were seated a ways in front of me under a small tree.

They went through 3 translators before finding one that would work and even he had trouble following me so Aaron first translated into Swahili and then the second translator translated into Luo. Because of having to do two translations from my English, it took much longer and because we could see that their dinner was waiting to be served we only did the Salvation and Forgiveness messages today but the prisoners responded to both.  

I was very happy we were close to the hotel and we were able to have dinner giving me time to finish this blog and get to bed at a decent hour. Today’s blog is short but with this heat these three musketeers are all a bit weary tonight.

We appreciate your continuing prayers. 

That none would be lost,

Arlene

Dec. 27 – Even in the “bush”, technology shows up! - Lira Men's and Women's Prison

 Ministry Partners

It seems even on mornings when I could sleep longer. my body clock has adjusted to waking up at about 6:00am. It is a beautiful morning here in Lira but that just means it will be another hot day for the two crusades we have scheduled for today.

Breakfast was sparse for me but they guys were fine with the local foods of cooked green bananas in red sauce and local seasoning are just not something that sets well with my tummy first thing in the morning. 

Even in the “bush”, technology shows up!

It was a good thing that today’s prisons were only about 10 min. away. We did the men’s prison of 1,450 inmates first and the Deputy O.C. from today’s prison came to our hotel last to meet with Alfred last night so he was at the prison when we arrived. Most of the men were under a cover but some meandered around outside the cover. The men were singing and dancing before we ever arrived as we could loudly hear them outside before we entered. While Aaron was setting up the sound system, I shook hands with some of the prisoners.

The Deputy O.C. made it very clear to the prisoners and us that although we had provided some soap and Bibles with booklets; it was not enough because of all the inmates there. I must admit I was surprised that he would address me in such a way with such a statement in front of the other inmates. This year, other O.C.’s have been thankful for what we have provided but because we held over 50 prison crusades, every prison got a small amount almost $85-$90 per prison and they shared in the 2,100 bibles and booklets I was able to purchase with the funds you provided. It costs about $12+ dollars to get 1 Bible into the hands of an inmate.

The inmate who translated into Langi for me today was an interesting fellow but did a good job. At one point, we heard the bell get hit and we knew we would have to stop while the inmates got up and formed 16 very long rows with two rows facing each other making 8 combined rows. The counting took about 20 minutes.

It was interesting as I was teaching how many prisoners would nod their heads as I quoted scripture or made certain comments. It was wonderful watching so many make good choices for themselves today as over 1,000 received Jesus as their Savior, prayed forgiveness and apologized. One inmate came up at the end and introduced himself as the prison Chaplin, he thanked me for coming and said that years ago when he heard me speak he had accepted Christ as his Savior and now he is the Chaplin. It brought me such joy to hear how God had blessed his life, even in prison.

“I have taken away your wrong-doing like a dark cloud, and your sins like a fog. Return to Me, for I have bought you and set you free.” Isaiah 44:22

Then it was off to the Women’s Prison with 165 inmates whose language was Luo and the Holy Spirit provided a young vibrant inmate to translate into the Luo language for me. The atmosphere was a bit different there today as when I started sharing about “Forgiveness” there were a few that were obviously being arrogant and prideful while others were crying. It was only the second time in all my years of ministry that I felt I needed to address the pride and arrogance that I saw.

It was good to see most respond to the salvation, forgiveness and apology messages and then there was time for testimonies. One young girl spoke about forgiving her father who forced her to have a abortion but then one inmate got up and said how the day before there had been those who had told lies about her and she named them. She said she could not forgive them and then she asked me how to handle it. The Holy Spirit gave me words to share and when I finished she called up one of the women she had named. She then forgave her and they hugged each other, it was a good thing for the other women to witness. Then the woman who had been forgiven asked if she could say something and as she took the mic she looked at me and said, “The Holy Spirit must have made you aware of what happened here last night. Some of us were in such a fight that we almost had to go to the hospital. Your talk today on “Forgiveness” is just what we needed.” The reconciliation that took place in the women’s prison today was indeed a powerful work of the Holy Spirit. I am so blessed that He let us be a part of it.

It was a powerful day today but I am very tired. Last night Alfred ordered a beef burger ahead of time for my dinner tonight but when dinner arrived, it was a chicken burger. You should know that because of the smell and taste it was not something I could eat, but about an hour later, my beef burger arrived. I wonder if it would be better for me to just tell them to bring whatever is available and not try to order anything but I know for sure that would never work.

Then it was time to finish this blog but Alfred had to fix some issues the computer was having due to hackers trying to get through the computer firewall.

It is 8pm and time for me to shower and go to bed. When the bathroom is so small that I can shower while sitting on the toilet it actually is a good thing, I do not have to worry about falling on the wet tiles. Yes, there is always something to be thankful for!

Thank you for your continuing prayers.

That none would be lost.

Arlene

Dec. 26 – One inmate, Daniel, gifted me a hand-molded clay horned bull. - Loro & Kole Prisons

 Ministry Partners,

Good morning, it is a beautiful quiet morning here in Lire, Uganda. I went to bed last night at 11;00 with the loud music still blaring but I was so tired that I fell asleep regardless. Alfred could not get the hotel internet to work so he linked my computer to his phone so I could get the blog posted. I am thankful for his knowledge with tech stuff because my knowledge in that area is severely limited.

 Daniel, gifted me a hand-molded clay horned bull.

I am hoping the two prisons we will visit today will be close to the main road as the rough dirt roads are causing difficulty for me, I appreciate your prayers.

Our breakfast was good but not the buffets like we have been having. I had scrambled eggs with peppers, seasoned potato pieces, Banana bread and hot chocolate, I turned down the chicken wings.

Then it was about an hour’s drive to Loro Farm Prison where there were 497 inmates and three officers that we met with. The two junior officers were both so very nice and one of them was tasked with being with us the whole time. He was surprised that I could stand and preach for two hours. I stood under a med. size tree at the edge while prisoners sat in front of me under the remaining shade. A short distance away was a large tree with inmates filling to overflowing the shade it provided.

I was thankful that Alfred and Aaron were able to translate for be into Swahili as the inmates responded to the salvation and forgiveness messages as well as the one to apologize. When we finished one inmate came forward and thanked me for coming and he said he had a gift for me, it was a hand-molded bull. I was pleased that the guard allowed Alfred to take a photo of us.

Then we headed back towards Lira and stopped at Kole Farm Prison on the way. It was such a small prison with only 62 men and 3 women. One big tree provided shade for all of us with the men in front of me and the women separate to my left. One inmate tried to translate for me but finally the Deputy O.C. decided to do the translation into the Langi language himself. He did a good job and did not have to keep stopping me.

When we finished, I gave each of the women the final three donated nylon backpacks that I had and one woman thanked me in English. One of the officers that had sat to the side spoke to the inmates and said that he was forgiving those inmates that had argued with him and he asked anyone whom he had offended to forgive him. It is a wonderful thing to watch the staff take to heart the messages I share.

I was glad to reach the hotel after our brief ride home and was able to work on this blog. They did not have what I wanted for dinner; most things on the menu are not available. It is hard to believe that I now eat because I need to not because I see or smell something that I would like to eat.

It is 8:00 and time for me to shower and go to bed and it is quiet here tonight no loud music, which just proves that there is always something to give God thanks and praise for.

I hope you had a wonderful Christmas with your families and friends,

We appreciate your continuing prayers for:

• 1-    The salvation of many
• 2     Favor with everyone we meet
•  3-    A fresh anointing for the team
•  4-    Safety on the paved and dirt roads
•  5-    Good health and food for the team and me

That none would be lost,

Arlene

Dec. 25 – A wonderful Christmas greeting from the Uganda Bible Society - Two Oyam Prisons

 Ministry Partners,

Happy Jesus Birthday to each of you from the IRM Team in Gulu & Lira

What a beautiful morning here in Gulu. We had a wonderful breakfast, finished packing up and headed out to Oyam about 9:30.

We received this wonderful Christmas greeting from the Uganda Bible Society

Yesterday we were having some issues with the van so Alfred spoke to the rental company and he and Aaron took it to a shop here. Amongst other things, the air conditioning belt had broken and fallen off. Thankful it did not cause additional damage. So much damage has been caused by the very bad roads we have traveled on that with all that banging and hitting the huge pot holes (that cannot be escaped) ….. something had to give. Then there are the speed bumps as we travel on paved roads that are everywhere so they keep ones speed down. Four small ones, then one large one, followed by 4 more small ones. I have had to make some difficult end of trip decisions to be able to cover the cost of so many repairs but I am thankful that I was able to do that. Of course, there is a financial cost to sharing the Gospel and seeing so many receive Christ as Savior. God has been so faithful to provide what we need.

When we arrived at the Oyam prisons, I noticed live turkeys outside. I asked to use the toilet and an officer pointer me to the one down from the O.C.s office. Well, that was an interesting bathroom. It was clear that it had been constructed for men as they took a pit toilet and raised it up to counter height so it would function as a urinal. It was a job for me to climb on top of the counter to be able to use it. I will not explain further, stop laughing, I think you get the idea.

We had driven over very bad dirt roads again. The men’s prison of 364 was the first crusade today with the men sitting in front of me on a porch under the roof overhang of a very long building; more men were to my left in the direct sun. I greeted many of the men when we entered and. there were two inmates who interpreted for me into the Langi language because the first one got tired part way through. At one point Alfred had to intervene, because what I said was not being interpreted correctly. But the men responded to the salvation, forgiveness and apology messages. When we ended the men asked me to return.

Then we went to the Women’s prison of 45 for a crusade there. The women and the team were seated under wonderful shade trees. The inmate who did a great job translating for me said she had seen me a number of years ago at another prison. The 8 babies that were there were darling. The women also responded to all the invitations so I can tell you it was a wonderful Christmas for me. Seeing 100’s receive God’s free gift of salvation and spending the day with Alfred and Aaron made it a Christmas to remember.

When we finished the crusade, the officer made a comment about me speaking their language so I explained to the women that I was sorry I could not remember their beautiful language. I told tem about the tumor in my skull, damage to the nerves on top of my brain and damage to my comprehension and memory banks making it hard for me to remember new things. The officer said they needed to pray for me and that is just what all the inmates did with some kneeling to pray, what a blessing to me. When they finished praying the women sang two Christmas songs about Jesus in English as a gift to me. They also asked me to please not forget them and return.

Then it was back on the bad dirt roads to head to Lira to find a place to stay. With it being Christmas it took us checking out 6 hotels before we could find rooms and this time I have to do stairs and they tell us the blaring music from the courtyard that make the windows rattle will go on until mid-night. But I am thankful, I have a bed, a toilet with a seat and hot water. What more could I ask for?

We finally had dinner and it is 10:15 so I need to get this posted so I can get to bed. We have two crusades tomorrow.

Please continue to pray for the inmates and for us.

That none would be lost,

Arlene

Dec. 24 – Christmas Eve in Gulu, Uganda - Nwoya Prison

 Ministry Partners,

I could have slept until 7:00 but woke at 5:00 and I finally got up at 5:45. Before starting this trip, the number of crusades, 50, in Uganda, looked daunting but as of today, we have completed 40 and only have 10 to go. I am having difficulty facing the fact that before I know it we will finish what God has called us to do in Uganda. Alfred, Aaron and I all work hard but watching the Holy Spirit work in the lives of the prisoners is something so powerful that I really do not have words to adequately explain how it influences and blesses us. I also do not have words to fully convey how thankful I am for each of you who pray and financially give to this ministry so we can accomplish what God has called us together to do here. I do not take lightly the sacrifices many of you make to partner with us. THANK YOU

                         MERRY CHRISTMAS from Gulu, Uganda

After another wonderful breakfast it was off for the hour drive to Nwoya Farm Prison where there were 275 men and 15 women prisoners, plus 1 child. As we got close to the prison we saw fields of corn, sunflowers and cotton. We were greeted by an officer who quickly got the prisoners ready for us but one officer in street clothes came up to us and informed us that he had an electric guitar and expected to use our battery operated equipment. It is an interesting thing the number of people I meet who are absolutely lovely, delightful people and then there are those who just want to use me and IRM to promote themselves. Those individuals make me extremely sad but I am aware of it and it is good to know that Jesus sees and eventually reveals everything and the judgement is His.

I shook hands with a few prisoners when I entered but the women were seated behind a fence so I could not get to them until the end after I finished. The team was under the narrow roof overhang of a long building while the prisoners were in the direct hot sun. A few were under a tiny tree and the women were under a tree. The interpreter translated into Acholi and he did the best he could but stopped me a number of times. There are just those time I trust the Holy Spirit that the inmates will hear what the Holy Spirit wants them to hear just like in the book of Acts. The inmates stood and boldly proclaimed Christ as Savior and prayed the Forgiveness Prayer.

They actually ended up having fun as they apologized to each other. One prisoner handed me his new bible so I could see it and I told the inmates that the gifts of famine hygiene products, soap and Bibles with booklets that had been delivered to them was a gift from my partners and me. Then four inmates gave a testimony as to what God had done in their lives during our time together.

It was then the officer, with the guitar, who had no interest in listening to our program, appeared. Alfred was gracious and said he could do one song as he and I left to go to the women’s side where I handed each woman a donated, colorful shopping bag and gave the baby a crochet cap. The little one did not cry but he never took his eyes off me. I am sure I am the first white person he had ever seen.

Then, it was it was time to drive back to our hotel where the guys let me off to pack up my room and they returned to town to get bread for our lunch box and water because we leave this area tomorrow. We have no idea where the prison is for sure or the type of roads we will drive on. It will be another adventure and we will built more precious memories. This is the last night in this hotel. It has been a very nice thing to have good food, have hot water to bathe in and a regular toilet with a seat not a pit toilet.

Have a WONDERFUL Christmas Eve and a HAPPY JESUS BIRTHDAY tomorrow.

That none would be lost,

Arlene

 

Dec. 23 – The inmates sang songs in English and played two Adungu - Lugore Farm Prison

 Ministry Partners,

With a good night’s sleep, I was awake at 6:00 and ready for the day with another great breakfast at 8:00. Hot chocolate, pork and beans (with no pork), potatoes, sausage, egg roll, sautéed mushrooms with onion and peppers, pineapple. Then I took with me: a banana, yogurt and a cookie for lunch, the guys ate the goat meat, matooke, spinach, watermelon, mangoes and other local foods and they also took items for their lunch.

The inmates sang two worship songs, played drums and two Adungu

I must tell you, traveling with Alfred and Aaron is so much fun; they sing, joke about our ever-changing circumstances and tease each other and me. I use a small tub or bucket to sit on when I shower because I am concerned about falling on the slick tiles so today I asked them if the shower floor in their room gets slick when they get their feet soaped up. Alfred and Aaron both replied at the same time,” I use the flip-flops they provide in the shower.” I told them that was a great idea but what about washing the bottom of their feet. To which Aaron said, “Oh, I only do that once a year.” as he burst into laughter and so did I.

It was about 45 min to an hour to the prison and again over dirt roads but not quite as bad a last week. As we traveled, we passed a number of overloaded trucks with people crammed on top who were on their way to today’s market to sell their wares. The trucks were so top heavy with large bags of charcoal that they did not want to not pull over to let us pass for fear that they would tip over. As the trucks weaved left and right to try to miss the potholes but hitting some I was just amazed that the many people sitting on top did not fall off as they had nothing to hold on too and were not tied down and some actually got up and secured a new place to sit. At one point one man did fall off and ran to the side of the road as we passed, I hope the truck stopped for him but I did not see. They kind of reminded me of a cherry on top of an ice-cream cone, ready to slide off!

 Before we arrived at the prison, we passed many sunflower (used for oil) and cornfields 9used for food) and I could see the huge silos for storing the corn. I knew what the silos were because we had one, not quite as big, on the farm where I grew up. When we pulled up to the front entrance of the prison, I could also see some of their farming equipment parked in a nearby area. 

The very nice officer met us and took us to meet the Deputy O.C. in his office. After greeting us, he said the inmates were all ready for us and asked us to follow him to an area surrounded by buildings with porches and trees covering the center area where the 1,045 inmates and 8 officers were. As we entered, I greeted some prisoners by shaking some of their hands but stopped when one inmate stood and prayed. After the Deputy O.C. introduced us, and Alfred said a few words I stood and began preaching. It was an interesting sight with the prisoners in the front and sides of me and the officers, in chairs, sitting behind me. I am not sure what it was but the atmosphere at this prison was different as I watched a number of inmates nod their heads in agreement with what I was saying. The Holy Spirit worked in their hearts as they prayed to receive Christ as Savior, prayed the Forgiveness Prayer and apologized. Even the guards apologized to each other.

They spoke Luganda so Alfred and Aaron took turns translating for me. Four inmates gave a testimony at the end of our crusade about how God had touched their hearts, two inmates shared about forcing their girlfriends to have an abortion and how that had affect their hearts but today because they now knew Jesus as their Savior they had forgiven themselves and were going to apologize. I asked permission and they said yes, before I hugged each one who gave a testimony. When we finished all the inmates sang two worship songs in English for us. At one point Aaron took one of the mikes over to an inmate who was plucking an African Adungu instrument so the sound was amplified, it was a beautiful way to end out time with them.

The O.C. asked us to come to his office, which we were happy to do along with some of the guards that had attended the Crusade.  The Social Affairs Officer and another officer commented on what a powerful statement it is for the inmates to see me handshake some and hug some. He said it tells them that they are still valuable people. It is interesting that by the time we leave some prisons, like today, how the inmates and guards refer to me as “Mama”. As we walked back to the Deputy O.C.s office, he said he was inviting us to lunch.

The Deputy rode with us while the guards walked to a thatched roof, beautiful restaurant that was still on prison property where two women had lunch prepared for us: Beef, matooke, rice and ground peanut sauce. I was a good guest and ate some of everything because I did not want to offend our host. We had an enjoyable visit while we ate and then thanked them for their hospitality and left for our hotel.

The guys rested while I wrote this blog. Tomorrow is another single prison crusade, there are only 10 prison crusades left here in Uganda.

Your prayers are appreciated, please continue to pray

That none would be lost,

Arlene

Dec. 22, 2025 – Happy Birthday to Pastor Aaron in Gulu today - Gulu, Prison

 Ministry Partners,

We were fortunate to have a buffet breakfast again today: I had a Spanish omelet with cheese, potatoes, sausage, pineapple, a pastry and hot chocolate. I took with me some yogurt, a banana and a slice of banana bread for a late lunch. According to Alfred and Aaron, dinners here have proved to not be as good as their breakfasts so they also took a lunch snack. It does not seem to matter what kind of meat you order it is all so very tough.

 

      Today is a very special day, it is Pastor Aaron’s 57^th birthday. 

Alfred and I are blessed to have Aaron on this team as he has such a servant’s heart, he translates, drives, sets up the sound system at each crusades and loads/unloads the van at each prison. A couple of days ago I asked him to stop walking 3-4 steps behind me and walk beside me but he said he walks behind me out of respect for my age and position. But, there are times when he holds my hand when Alfred is occupied and I need to walk on uneven surfaces. I know I surprised him last night with a birthday card I had brought from home for him. HAPPY BIRTHDAY Aaron!

Today we had only one prison crusade to do and the drive was only a few minutes to Gulu Main Prison with 1,790 prisoners. They had set up a tent for me to stand under, and a tiny one across for me for a few inmates. Most all of the inmates were in the huge open area in front of me in the direct sunlight. Alfred and I met with the O.C. while Aaron was setting up the sound system and by the time, the O.C. allowed us to enter with another officer there was no time for me to greet any of the inmates. As I entered the very large open area and saw the vast sea of men, I said to Alfred, “Praise Jesus.” That I should have such an opportunity to share the Gospel every day is just amazing to me.

During the crusade I ventured out from under the tent a few times to do object lessons but the sun was very hot. Again, the interpreter translated into Acholi and although he started out soft toned he did much better when Alfred told him he was going to have to increase his voice and talk louder. With that many men in such a large area, even our sound system needed all the help it could get.

It really is something so very special just to watch/hear that many men praying to ask Jesus to be their Savior. I am sorry that I do not have adequate words to express what my heart feels like. They also responded to the “Forgiveness” message and when it was time for them to apologize to each other, they did not hesitate. After we finished the officer that was with us informed the O.C., who had remained in his office, of our “Forgiveness” message and the inmate’s response.

Back at our hotel, the guys are resting and I am finishing this blog and some IRM business stuff. It is almost 4pm and too late for me to take a nap but doing just one prison a day and staying in the same hotel has allowed me to get the blog done early and get to bed early by 9pm.

Please continue to pray for the salvation of the inmates and the team’s anointing and health.

That none would be lost,

Arlene

Dec. 21 –So many looked like teenagers - Peca Prison

 

Ministry Partners, 

It seems impossible that in 23 days, I will be boarding the plane to fly home; my time here has gone far too quickly.

I believe the days have cooled just slightly and the evenings and mornings are just plain lovely. As we waited for dinner last night, Alfred took me on a walk around the hotel grounds to show me where he has been going for a run in the mornings and this morning the hotel owner saw and spoke to him. Our dinner of sweet & sour Pork with vegetable rice and broccoli (for me) and mixed vegies for the guys was delicious. The hotel has Christmas decorations up and are playing Christmas music but it just doesn’t FEEL like Christos. 

In this hot weather which would you choose, a plain metal “home” or a metal home covered with vines for cooling?

It is typical for us to see the metal homes used for solders and prison officers and some have gotten very inventive in this hot sunshine to try to cool their homes much as possible by planting vines of different types to cover the roofs and cascade down the sides.

Today was just a short drive, 20 min. to Peca men’s prison where we met by a lovely O.C. who invited us to visit in her office while the Catholics were finishing their mass. She told us they had arrived late so we waited for n hour for them to conclude. After the inmates sitting an hour for mass I was concerned that having them sit for another two hours would be a bit much. But, I do not know that I have ever seen a more attentive group of inmates, 197 men with their 7 officers including the O.C. who sat through our entire two hour presentation, although it was her day off. My inmate interpreter did a great job in Acholi but I must say I miss Alfred or Aaron interpreting for me.

I was surprised at how many of the inmates seemed so very young, they looked like teenagers. The O.C. had told us how so many were hopeless, how many wanted to commit suicide and how most had no family support because they had ben abandoned at a young age having no idea where their family even was. The hopeless I originally saw in their eyes was gone, their eyes were bright and smiles were on their faces by the time we concluded. They had received Christ as Savior, prayed forgiveness over their complainant of themselves and apologized to each other.

It was so nice to be close to the prison today and not have to drive over the bad roads, thank you Jesus for that special blessing.

I think there is time for me to get some other IRM business done before diner so I will get this posted now.

Thank you for following this blog during such a busy season and for praying for us, we appreciate each one of you.

That none would be lost,

Arlene

Dec. 20 – God held back the rain today - Kitugum Prison

  

Ministry Partners,

Well, things are going much differently than what we have been planning for.

Last night the music on my side of the hall in the hotel, where we are was so loud that Alfred had me moved across the hall to the side he and Aaron are in; it was much quieter I must say. Hotels like the one we are in are quite interesting. This is a very expensive hotel but they have two sections, the very expensive section for travelers and locals who have money and then they have the section we are in, for locals without money. Alfred rented our rooms as a local at a very reasonable price. We get to eat in the same restaurant and get the same wonderful comped breakfast as the wealthy patrons.  This morning we were blessed with another wonderful buffet breakfast.

This tree’s bark is used for making traditional clothing and wrapping deceased bodies for burial.

Then we were off for a 1 hr. 45min. drive to today’s prison, but there is definitely something wrong with the van as it died going down the road and there were a couple of other issues but we arrived at almost 11am. The O.C. spoke with Alfred yesterday about our visit but was not there when we arrived so Alfred spoke with the Deputy O.C. who said the O.C. was “coming”. I learned a long time ago that that statement does have a large variety of meanings. The Deputy was concerned about rain since the men would be outside and then there was the issue of bringing the 32 women and babies in, so we waited. Finally, at 12 noon, the O.C. arrived and we were allowed to go inside.

It was an answer to prayer that God held back the rain today. Then the inmates were able to pick up all the drying cassava that was on tarps on the ground. Cassava, is a starchy root vegetable and is a major source of carbohydrates.

I noticed a tree with a most interesting trunk at the edge of the parking area at the prison and Aaron explained about it. He said the bark can be used for a number of thing like making traditional clothing and wrapping deceased bodies for burial but that the trunk of this tree had not been well cared for..

The one very large tree provided shade for most of the 876 men in the open center area in front of me while a smaller tree provided shade for the 30 women seated to my right. The O.C. and Deputy sat behind me to my left with Alfred and Aaron.  A VERY tall inmate translated directly into Acholi for me and he did a good job.  We were able to complete the entire crusade in 2 hours. It was such a joy to hear them praying to ask Jesus to be their Savior and then praying to forgive someone else or themselves. They finished by apologizing to each other, what a wonderful sight to watch shake hands and say, “I’m sorry” to another inmate they had argued with or had a fight with. When I asked them what their heart felt like after the apology exercise they responded with peaceful, happy, good. I told them they now know how to live lives of peace and not turmoil, even in this prison.  

When we finished I was able to give each women a scarf and each child a crochet cap.

The drive back to Gulu seemed longer than going to the prison because I dozed off as Alfred drove, arriving at 4pm. The guys then left me at the hotel and went back to the shop where they had been before to find out what the remaining issues are and get those fixed.

It is now almost 6:30pm and the guys are still not back from the garage so I will get this posted.

Please continue to pray for the prisoners, the team and that God would intervene on our behalf, defeating Satan’s attacks on us.

That none would be lost,

Arlene 

Dec. 19 - "You will make his people know that they can be saved through the forgiveness of their sins." Luke 1:77 - Gulu Women's Prison

 

Ministry Partners,

A very good morning to you from Gulu, Uganda where it is a bit cloudy this morning. I slept until 7am this morning, which tells me I was very tired after yesterday’s long day. I am thankful that we will stay in this spot for the next few days while we minister to prisons in the area. 

Children in Gulu, Uganda pumping water

This was a good reminder for me today from Bible Gateway, “You, child, will be called a spokesperson of the Most High. You will go ahead of the Lord to prepare his way. You will make his people know that they can be saved through the forgiveness of their sins. A new day will dawn on us from above because our God is loving and merciful.” Luke 1:76-78 GOD’S WORD Translation

 Breakfast at 8:30 was an absolutely amazing buffet and gave so many wonderful choices like yogurt and wonderful pineapple, muffins, sautéed mushrooms along with all kinds of hot dishes like goat, which the guys said was good.Thank you for those of you that were praying about our meal situation.  Following breakfast Alfred got on the phone and started contacting O.C.’s in the area to set up times for our visit.

We visited 167 women at Gulu Women’s Prison this morning and I must confess, God has given me a heart for all prisoners but there is something so very special about ministering to a group of women inmates. When I Arrived I saw them seated under two large tents and as I entered, they were all singing and continued singing while Aaron and I after waited a bit for Alfred to come with the O.C. The stern officer at the gate would not let us enter with our sound system so it took Alfred some time to convince the O.C. that because I am 81 years old I needed to use a microphone for my voice. Well, not really but he uses my age at different times to get something we need. It is interesting how at the end of our crusades many O. C.s comment about how amazing it is for an 81 year old woman can stand and preach for 2-3 hours, sometimes twice a day, and how a young inmate would not be able to do it. Those kinds of words just make me smile; of course, it is the anointing from the Holy Spirit that gives me strength to preach that long.

The woman translator I had today was absolutely the best ever as she translated into Acholi, she was fast and never asked me once “What?”. She smiled broadly at the end when I thanked and praised her, in front of the other women, for the wonderful job she did. Then she thanked me for coming and said how important my messages were. I was disappointed that I did not have enough scarves for them or caps for the children but I will use what I have left for the remaining women prisons. We had 15 officers also attend our crusade today, the most ever and it was wonderful to watch them also respond to the salvation, forgiveness and apology messages.

After finishing at the prison the guys took me back to the hotel and then they took the van for a “check-up” to make sure it is in good order for the remainder of the trip and drive to Kenya. The roads we have been on are pretty hard on any vehicle. I is almost 6pm and Alfred just messaged me that, “We were in the queue but now they are working on us, we are still waiting for a replacement part.”

I will wait a bit before I decide what to do for dinner but I will post this for today.

Please continue to pray for:

·       1- The salvation of many prisoners

·       2- That we would find favor with everyone we meet

·       3- Health and a fresh anointing for the team by the Holy Spirit

·       4- Safety as we travel about

Blessings on each of you and your families, I hope you are enjoying the Christmas season.

That none would be lost,

Arlene

Dec. 18 - How much can 1 pick-up carry? - Amuru & Kaladima Prisons

 

Ministry Partners,

Well, last night did not turn out like I had hoped. I was unable to post yesterday’s blog because, according to Alfred, Something was going on with the satellite over the area where we were staying. That is why I had to post it earlier this evening.

Just how much stuff and how many people can 1 pick-up carry? And they are still loading.

Alfred had ordered breakfast for 7:30 so we could at least get our breakfast by 8:00 and be on the road and off to our first prison of the day, Amuru, by 9am. But, breakfast did not arrive till 8:30 and when it did it was quite interesting. There was an orange green color juice, milk for African tea, and two large pancakes with scrambled eggs in between. I guess you would call it a pancake sandwich and since there were two for each of us, we ate and put the second one in tin foil to eat later in the day.

I could tell you about the unbelievable roads we went on today but I have explained about the roads in the bush before so I will so no more tonight except they were some of the worst. We could not find our way to Amuru the first prison and none of the 7-8 motorbike men seemed to know for sure where it was, one said it was so far, and the road so bad, that he would not take us even though Alfred offered to pay him. Finally, after 3 hours we found the prison of 350 men and 3 women. There were also 6 guards that all stayed to hear our crusade. The long building roof overhang provided shade for about 2 hours but the last 30 min. I was in the sun with the men. I am always giving God praise as I watch the prisoner and officers respond to the salvation and forgiveness invitations but watching the inmates and officers apologize to each other is something special.

It was about 3pm when we left the prison and headed for Kaladima where we arrived 1 hour and 45 minutes later. The 275 men were seated out in an open center area, in the sun but since it was, almost 5pm there was no direct sun. Because our time was short, I only did the salvation and forgiveness messages and ended with the apology portion. I struggled with the inmate translating into Lugbara as he was very slow and seemed confused at times. The O.C. talked to the men about the importance of the messages we had shared before we left. The languages today at both prisons were English, Swahili and Lugbara.

Then it was time to drive to Gulu in the dark where we arrived at about 8pm. It was not the best idea over the bad roads but Aaron is such a good driver. Alfred found us rooms but I was too tired and just not hungry so decided to get yesterdays and today's blogs posted, shower and the bed as it is now 10:30.breakfast tomorrow is at 8:30 so I can sleep in and we only have one prison crusade tomorrow.

Please continue to pray, we see God doing miracles every day. 

That none would be lost.

Arlene