From Mission Trip to Lasting Impact: Nena’s Story in Uganda

A single mission trip became a lifelong partnership, revealing God’s faithfulness through education, discipleship, and the hope of the Gospel.

In 2018, the Lord graciously opened the door for Lalaine to serve on a ten-day mission trip to Kitgum, Uganda, alongside Calvary Chapel Southbay. During her time there, God revealed both the physical and spiritual needs of the community while connecting her with faithful believers who were serving Christ with joy and perseverance. Through His providence, lasting relationships were formed with local families, children, and church leaders, including Pastor Julius Eluga. What began as a short-term mission trip soon became a long-term partnership centered on Christian fellowship, prayer, discipleship, and the shared mission of proclaiming the Gospel of Jesus Christ.

Among the many lives touched through this relationship is Nena, a young girl whose educational journey has been made possible through the Lord’s provision and the generosity of faithful supporters. As believers partnered together across continents, God faithfully provided the resources needed for Nena to attend school and continue her education. Today, we rejoice as she reaches an important milestone by graduating from primary school. Her accomplishment is more than an academic achievement. It is a beautiful testimony of God’s faithfulness and a reminder that when we faithfully sow seeds in obedience, the Lord is able to produce a harvest far greater than we could ever imagine.

We also continue to give thanks for the enduring friendship we share with Pastor Julius Eluga, Nena’s family, and the Kitgum community. Though separated by thousands of miles, we remain united through our faith in Christ and our desire to see His Kingdom advance. These relationships reflect the beauty of the body of Christ, where believers from different nations come together to encourage, support, and serve one another for God’s glory.

At Padayon Growth Foundation, we believe the Gospel knows no borders. Whether through discipleship, educational support, community outreach, or simply walking alongside those the Lord places in our path, our desire is to faithfully serve wherever He leads. Stories like Nena’s remind us that God continues to work through ordinary acts of obedience to accomplish extraordinary things. We look forward with hope as He continues to transform lives, strengthen His Church, and expand His Kingdom, one person, one family, and one community at a time.