SAMS Retreat
Patrick Lutalo • October 15, 2019
Several weeks ago I attended the SAMS (Society of Anglican Missionaries and Senders) retreat and the New Wineskins conference at the Ridgecrest Conference Center near Asheville, North Carolina. This was a time of renewal, worship, prayer, and refreshment for Episcopal and Anglican missionaries from around the world. It was truly a grace-filled time.
The theme we focused on was in Psalm 13; knowing God's position in all our lamentations and knowing that God is God and has his timing in everything we pray for. I am so grateful for all the people I interacted with—for them being so interested and supportive of what we do. On the hiking trail I met 4 missionaries who have been to Mityana, and it was exciting to share the experience.
One night I volunteered to help arrange the display room for SAMS, where the missionaries exhibited their displays from the mission trips. Below you can see a photo of the poster I made for Teach Men to Fish and displayed along with the brochures and business cards at our table. The next day more guests joined us, including the newly elected Archbishop of Uganda, the Rt. Rev. Stephen Kazimba from Mityana. In the first photo of this post you will see with us is Dr. Alison Barfoot who serves in the Church of Uganda.
Field Operations Manager Patrick Lutalo Expresses his Gratitude and Appreciation to Teach Men to Fish Supporters
We are deeply honored to receive this special community award and grateful to everyone who has supported the mission of Teach Men to Fish. This recognition is not simply a celebration of one individual, but of the apprentices, volunteers, families, mentors, donors, and community partners who have made this work possible. As Patrick Lutalo shares in his appreciation report, every milestone has been achieved through the dedication of countless people working toward a common purpose. What began as a construction skills training program has grown into something far greater. Apprentices are not only learning valuable trades that provide sustainable careers, but they are also using those skills to transform their own communities. From building a much-needed maternity facility in rural Uganda to constructing a new Community Healthcare Center that will eventually serve more than 500,000 people, these projects demonstrate the lasting impact of investing in people and practical education. Although time during the award ceremony will not allow Patrick to share the full story, we invite you to read his complete appreciation report below. It highlights the journey behind Teach Men to Fish, the remarkable accomplishments of its apprentices, and the vision for creating stronger, healthier communities through education, opportunity, and service. Thank you for being part of this journey. Your encouragement and support continue to empower lives and inspire hope for generations to come.
Topping Out Ceremony Sunday, October 12
Progress Report after a Month of Work
Building Success Through Strong Vendor Relationships and Team Spirit
