tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-94318152011-11-10T20:09:01.892-05:00A family of 6 who have moved to Kabale, Uganda to live, love, and learn with our East African brothers and sisters.Hines Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11980056604604195540noreply@blogger.comBlogger871100tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9431815.post-66020614529594689232011-11-01T14:29:00.001-05:002011-11-01T14:45:03.665-05:00

As many of you know, I'm an Anglican priest who serves under two bishops: Archbishop Robert Duncan (Archbishop of ACNA and Bishop of Pittsburgh) and Bishop George Katwesigye (Bishop of Kigezi). With regard to the former, one of the encouraging things that the Diocese of Pittsburgh does is send out a weekly email called the Pittsburgh Advance.  This brief newsletter includes writings from

Hines Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11980056604604195540noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9431815.post-39246019997253742382011-09-28T13:22:00.000-05:002011-09-28T13:22:26.326-05:00

Our most recent post comes from the fingers of Leslie!  Enjoy! ------------------------------------------------------------------ I have always heard that it is better to give than to receive.  After a year in Uganda, I am seeing that it is equally important to receive as to give because without receiving, there can be no gift. One of the things I love about Ugandans is that they receive

Hines Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11980056604604195540noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9431815.post-38200710626973308862011-07-27T03:00:00.004-05:002011-07-27T06:41:05.047-05:00

Whoa.  July has zipped along!  It has been a fast and full month.  I've been teaching (and loving it) the books of Hebrews and 1 Timothy, and trying to step up my assistance with technology at the school.  (Regarding the latter, I've been updating the BBUC website -- take a look:  bbuc.ucu.ac.ug)  The older three kids are nearly through their second term at their school Aine'Mbabazi (exams around

Hines Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11980056604604195540noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9431815.post-46751934077326342792011-06-28T12:16:00.000-05:002011-06-28T12:16:23.304-05:00

When we first arrived in Kabale, I would often ask a student or fellow lecturer, "So, where is your home?"  What I meant by the question was, "Where are you currently living?"  Almost invariably the person would gesture toward the distance and reply, "I stay in Kabale, but my home is...," and then would come the name and description of a district and village somewhere many kilometres away.  I

Hines Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11980056604604195540noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9431815.post-5919272815930872442011-06-20T02:22:00.000-05:002011-06-20T02:22:33.198-05:00

As you read in my previous post, obviously I enjoyed the importance of tea in the meeting of the Scholarship Committee.  I was even more impressed by the caring and careful wisdom of the men and women on this committee.  We interviewed candidates from a number of backgrounds and current situations, all of them rather dire by western standards.  We had the expected criteria -- academic performance

Hines Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11980056604604195540noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9431815.post-82065214805538177842011-06-16T02:30:00.002-05:002011-06-16T06:08:34.290-05:00

...that was the question!  We were almost an hour into our Scholarship Committee meeting, and the g-nuts (peanuts), bananas, mugs, and thermoses of tea sat waiting on the table. I have learned several important lessons about tea time in Uganda.  First, no one wants to miss tea.  (It took me half a term to realize the reason students are anxious for a timely end to my morning classes is so they

Hines Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11980056604604195540noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9431815.post-13918289552253740442011-06-03T07:24:00.000-05:002011-06-03T07:24:24.025-05:00

 On 3 June 1886, thirty-two young men, pages of the court of King Mwanga of Buganda, were burned to death at Namugongo for their refusal to renounce Christianity. In the following months many other Christians throughout the country died by spear or fire for their faith.  These martyrdoms totally changed the dynamic of Christian growth in Uganda. Introduced by a handful of Anglican and

Hines Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11980056604604195540noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9431815.post-91638295581980965852011-05-25T14:31:00.000-05:002011-05-25T14:31:45.498-05:00

So what does one write about when one has not posted to one's blog in almost two months? The challenge of finishing my first term of cross-cultural teaching and administering and marking final exams and assignments? The joy of participating in a retreat in the shadow of a volcano in Kisoro with theology students completing their studies and preparing to return to full time ministry? The ongoing

Hines Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11980056604604195540noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9431815.post-83706097551400121492011-04-01T06:00:00.001-05:002011-04-01T06:00:12.321-05:00

Here is Leslie's follow-up email to her Lenten Reflection: So, after my Lenten email, someone pointed out... what DO I do all day, then???   Really... I sit around in my nightie and eat bon-bons!   :0) But, if I'm not doing that, then I am boiling water, eating breakfast, chasing Julia, boiling more water, taking a shower (or not), flushing the toilet (or not), getting Julia dressed (this takes

Hines Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11980056604604195540noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9431815.post-91724588828166046402011-03-25T06:37:00.000-05:002011-03-25T06:37:11.098-05:00

Just before Ash Wednesday, Leslie sent out the following email to some family and friends.  I thought the rest of you would enjoy reading it as well: With Ash Wednesday fast approaching, I had to come up with a plan quick!  So, for Lent this year I am giving up:  ice cream, chocolate, Chick-fil-A, chips & queso, margaritas, Shiner Bock, going to the movies, electricity, marshmallows, dairy,

Hines Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11980056604604195540noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9431815.post-1484956356322935102011-03-06T13:32:00.000-05:002011-03-06T13:32:39.121-05:00

Photo by Nicola Swann, a visitor to Uganda It's 7:45 Sunday morning, and I'm trudging through a downpour with my vestments slung over my back and an umbrella held above my head.  I look down the muddy road and smile; a neighbor  is coming toward me is dressed for church, and holds a huge banana tree leaf over her head for protection.  The rain is so loud we don't even try to speak, but we smile

Hines Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11980056604604195540noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9431815.post-15681192917787903072011-02-22T03:42:00.001-05:002011-02-22T03:43:55.008-05:00

I just thought I would share with y'all a prayer I found and prayed today in a collection of prayers given to me by a dear departing missionary (er...departing as in leaving Uganda, not as in leaving life): Lord of the world, We pray thee master these our weak and vacillating wills, With thine almighty, clear-discerning will. We would have working through our ineffectiveness      thy quiet

Hines Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11980056604604195540noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9431815.post-27438599040567551182011-02-18T04:19:00.000-05:002011-02-18T04:19:04.373-05:00

(Before I begin, a small announcement.  The kids are starting their own blog called HinesKids (http://hineskids.wordpress.com/).  They'll begin to post their experiences in their own words.  The first post is introducing them.  Next week, the real blogging will begin.) We are three weeks into the kids' school year, six weeks into the BBUC term, and six months into our first year of living in

Hines Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11980056604604195540noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9431815.post-2967502106069895352011-01-23T13:20:00.000-05:002011-01-23T13:20:03.318-05:00

Ergh.  I can't believe it has already been three weeks since our last post!  And, like you, often so much happens in so little time, it is hard to sit down and recount what has happened in the days that have passed.  A picture is worth a thousand words, of course, but unfortunately our camera is not working properly, so words are all I have.  Here are two vignettes: Teaching Love it. Love it,

Hines Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11980056604604195540noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9431815.post-26354502656613777852011-01-03T14:43:00.000-05:002011-01-03T14:43:28.789-05:00

Looking Back One year ago today my dad, Jesse, and I drove from PA to TX with what remained of our worldly goods.  Leslie and the girls had flown ahead several days before, and we were all settling in for our "brief" stay with my parents -- a stay which became a wonderful 8 month homecoming. I won't retell the stories of the joys of living at The 10 Acres with my parents, the strengthening of

Hines Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11980056604604195540noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9431815.post-28768683462264995922010-12-22T16:55:00.000-05:002010-12-22T16:55:29.384-05:00

Ordination Day, 5 December 2010  PREPARATION In June of 2008 I was ordained a deacon by Bishop (now Archbishop) Robert Duncan.  Knowing I was leaving for my second trip to Uganda in just a few weeks, Bishop Duncan direct me to ask Bishop George Katwesigye of the Diocese of Kigezi (where I would be serving) whether I should come as a priest, or wait and be ordained in Kabale.  Not surprisingly,

Hines Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11980056604604195540noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9431815.post-54544313157718328242010-12-02T14:30:00.000-05:002010-12-02T14:30:37.939-05:00

Here are some random goings-on in the life of the Hines Family, in no particular order. Rwanda Trip Until we get our work visa, we have to use a tourist visa that must be renewed every three months.  The simplest way is to drive about 30 minutes over to the border of Rwanda.  We decided to make a full road trip out of it, and go down to Kigali for a brief exploration of Rwanda's capital, and in

Hines Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11980056604604195540noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9431815.post-43140173174457600952010-11-21T15:32:00.000-05:002010-11-21T15:32:08.953-05:00

It has been too long since I've posted an update, so let me share with y'all some highlights from the past couple of weeks:  THE KIDS Girls sorting peanuts (or "g-nuts" as they're called here) It has been a painful to joy to watch how quickly our kids are growing, especially the girls.  Julia, the 2-year-old, is wearing Lucy's clothes, joining in games, speaking like a 3-year-old, and making

Hines Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11980056604604195540noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9431815.post-7401367789204008812010-11-01T03:48:00.000-05:002010-11-01T03:48:19.628-05:00

Inspired my our teammates' blog (visit Rugarama Hill to get a tour up the hill to where they and we live), I thought I would post a stream of photos that will give you a feel for our home. Before I begin, a quick update:  Many of you know that Julia was diagnosed last week with shingles.  Yep, shingles!  Now that we have the right medication, she is improving and doing very well.  Thanks for

Hines Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11980056604604195540noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9431815.post-9591473366000476652010-10-24T14:25:00.000-05:002010-10-24T14:25:42.209-05:00

In looking back over our blog entries, we've realized that we've written a lot about the hardships of coming to and being in Uganda.  There have been joys as well!  I asked each member of the family to tell me some of the joys they've experienced here, and here's the report, from youngest to oldest: Julia  I like playing with Judith, the young girl who accompanies one of our house helpers. I

Hines Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11980056604604195540noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9431815.post-58538222630258144432010-10-18T14:37:00.001-05:002010-10-18T14:38:46.266-05:00

Rugarama Hill -- Our hill from a distance. You can see the red roofs of BBUC.  "You're eating up the hill!" One of the Ugandan lecturers at BBUC made this comment as our paths intersected on campus. I was trudging up the trail to our house at my normal rate, but his remark (which meant, from his perspective, that I was moving uphill in a hurry) reminded me of how different the pace of life is

Hines Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11980056604604195540noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9431815.post-2058323363936506072010-10-03T15:29:00.000-05:002010-10-03T15:29:29.220-05:00

A lot can happen in a week.  Like most of our lives, the majority of the moments are small ones that a hard to record and even remember.  Each one is important, each one shapes and re-shapes both a particular days as well as an entire experience, but how do you recount them to others in a way that conveys the depth of meaning you've found in them?  In less than seven days several of us have been

Hines Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11980056604604195540noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9431815.post-78773606309580783712010-09-30T13:16:00.000-05:002010-09-30T13:16:26.695-05:00

I was planning to do an in depth post tonight, complete with pictures, but my brain is wiped, and I really, really want a shower and shave before bed.  We have power tonight, which means I can get warmish water to wash off the red dust of the day. Instead, I'm going to share another of Leslie's recent emails: It's late now and the days are so full - we are all exhausted by 8pm... some days we

Hines Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11980056604604195540noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9431815.post-91197201665167094832010-09-20T14:21:00.000-05:002010-09-20T14:21:25.164-05:00

Leslie sent the following email out a few days ago.  I thought others would enjoy this snippet of our life: Yesterday was moving day to our house up the hill... exhausting!  But all in all, a really good day with some funny stories to go with it.  The guys who came to help us move put 50 lb trunks and suitcases on their heads and hiked it up the hill like mountain goats - Travis was

Hines Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11980056604604195540noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9431815.post-62899156611319009732010-09-12T13:19:00.000-05:002010-09-12T13:19:46.686-05:00

"Dad, I think we're stepping into chaos."  Jesse said this to me our first morning in Kabale as we stepped out or door.  The day before we had made the 8 hour drive from Kampala to Kabale.  Don't let the photo fool you; while the drive is beautiful (especially once you get into the district of Kabale), this is about the only nicely paved portion we experienced it.  The rest of it is pitted with

Hines Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11980056604604195540noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9431815.post-45253076483734207842010-09-07T15:41:00.000-05:002010-09-07T15:41:36.234-05:00

Here are a few glimpses of our first week en route to Kabale.  They only begin to tell the story of the fun, hard, draining, exciting, confusing, scary, tasty, icky, crazy, sobering, uplifting, challenging, faith-building time we're having. Leslie's and my Dads -- such love we've received! DFW Airport.  Our final farewell to parents/grandparents -- many tears! Jesse and Leslie at

Hines Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11980056604604195540noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9431815.post-27720199512618550292010-09-05T15:58:00.002-05:002010-09-05T16:44:27.429-05:00

I really should be sleeping, but a quick test of my new mobile modem (which I simply plug into the usb port of my laptop, and I'm connect to the internet) has led to extensive email checking, plus a wonderful Skype call with my parents -- and I'm sitting on a porch at the top of Namirembe Hill overlooking the lights of Kampala, the capital of Uganda! Our first days here have been both wonderful

Hines Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11980056604604195540noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9431815.post-67884448119866174742010-08-30T11:16:00.000-05:002010-08-30T11:16:00.870-05:00

View Larger Map "Mom, I want to stay one more week in Texas.  Please!"  This from Georgia, our oldest daughter, who is currently feeling the most sadness about leaving.  The answer, of course, is no.  The day has come!  What a mix of emotions we're all feeling, and at different times, and expressing them in different ways.  Excitement, fear, sadness, stress, gratefulness, confusion, weariness,

Hines Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11980056604604195540noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9431815.post-27267795305875939762010-08-20T22:31:00.000-05:002010-08-20T22:31:11.126-05:00

I keep waiting for a moment to write a decent blog post, and I'm realizing it's just not going to come!  We leave in 10 days for Uganda -- August 30, 2010.  Almost exactly 5 years later than my original plan.  (Leslie was far more realistic, but this has taken longer than even she had anticipated.)   But we're going!  In God's timing, and through the love of God's people, and with the clear

Hines Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11980056604604195540noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9431815.post-64043586278647514552010-07-07T11:49:00.000-05:002010-07-07T11:49:51.557-05:00

It has been almost three weeks since we completed our training at Mission Training International.  Our time there was, is, and will continue to be of inestimable value.  It was so significant, in fact, that I want to share here several insights we gained.  "Insights" actually is too small and simple a word for what we received.  You'll understand more as we share more on this blog.  To begin with

Hines Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11980056604604195540noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9431815.post-15812103994837063502010-06-09T07:50:00.000-05:002010-06-09T07:50:57.216-05:00

 We are in the final week of our three weeks of cross-cultural training at Mission Training International. Many times I've wished I could have had the time to blog daily, to share with you the depth of insights and significant shaping and re-shaping we are receiving (experiencing? enjoying? enduring?) from the trainers and community here. We have had less free time than we had anticipated, and

Hines Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11980056604604195540noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9431815.post-90025316655451953892010-05-21T22:02:00.000-05:002010-05-21T22:02:31.597-05:00

This has been the last week of school for our kids, since we're pulling them out early for our cross-cultural training in Colorado.  For the final three days, Granddad saddled up the horses, and Jesse and Georgia got to ride to and from school (40 minutes each way) astride Mary Sue.  Here's a quick glimpse into this wonderful memory-maker: While we're putting up videos, here's a brief one from

Hines Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11980056604604195540noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9431815.post-44998570973500699172010-05-19T21:34:00.000-05:002010-05-19T21:34:50.563-05:00

Last week a friend sent us the following YouTube clip.  We laughed and reveled in its humorous critique of this particular aspect of North American church culture.   This past Sunday, however, we walked into a church that...um...well, suffice it to say that they might not find this video so funny, or might even see it as a model for how to do church.  The lights were low ("I feel like we're in a

Hines Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11980056604604195540noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9431815.post-867394805383839262010-05-10T11:20:00.001-05:002010-05-10T11:22:02.013-05:00

As I look over past entries of our blog, I've noticed that I give a lot of space to writing about our family and our kids.  Once we're in Uganda, I'm sure, I'll start posting more about cultural observations, ministry in action, occasional insights, interesting life situations and the like, but I'm confident that the majority of the posts will still be connected to family.  Why?  That's who we

Hines Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11980056604604195540noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9431815.post-40445564560834483232010-05-03T22:14:00.000-05:002010-05-03T22:14:19.686-05:00

Whoa.  I can't believe it has been almost a month since I last posted something to our blog. (I'm sure many a would-be blogger has written these words.)  Well, in the immortal words of Inigo Montoya:  "Let esplain.  No, there is too much.  Let me sum up...." So let me sum up:  KIDSThe kids continue to do well.  We've had beautiful weather in Texas, with ample time for zip lines, soccer games,

Hines Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11980056604604195540noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9431815.post-61330570287580998862010-04-05T13:50:00.000-05:002010-04-05T13:50:33.009-05:00

Look at these kids!  Aren't they wonderful?  Jesse will be 10 (10!) in July, Georgia will be 7 in August, Lucy will be 4 in just a few weeks, and Julia is 18 months.  We love 'em. Jesse and Georgia, of course, are more aware of the sacrifice of going to Uganda than the younger two.   Georgia is writing some very sweet and sad things in a diary she's keeping these days, and keeps us aware of

Hines Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11980056604604195540noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9431815.post-36929474230544325162010-03-30T12:20:00.000-05:002010-03-30T12:20:05.138-05:00

As it comes increasingly possible that we will indeed leave for Uganda in June, we are confronted with the myriad of details that need to be added to our "To Do" list -- visas, wills, vaccinations, burial instructions, emergency evacuation plans, shipping items to Uganda, buying necessities unavailable there, final meetings with our team, connecting with potential partners.... In the midst of

Hines Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11980056604604195540noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9431815.post-38996130186739317552010-03-16T14:41:00.001-05:002010-03-16T14:43:51.372-05:00

Here are tidbits of news about Hines Goings-Ons in Texas: Partner Development Not too long ago, the good folks in the office of Global Teams and I had a long phone conversation in which we reviewed our budget one more time and looked at the financial numbers with regard to our pledging and giving partners.  Deep breath -- are now under $700 per month away from our goal!  A few more

Hines Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11980056604604195540noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9431815.post-75423003169503111822010-03-03T15:07:00.001-05:002010-03-03T15:09:21.847-05:00

I call them the "People Behind the Counter."  That guy at the register at CVS, the kids at the drive-thru windows of Macdonald's, the waitress as Snuffer's, the store clerk stacking shelves at Giant Eagle, the librarian behind the desk.  These are the people we whisk past throughout our day, hardly seeing them past the immediate service they provide us.  If they're exceptionally kind or

Hines Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11980056604604195540noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9431815.post-41902383264065189172010-02-20T13:33:00.000-05:002010-02-20T13:33:25.657-05:00

A month or so ago I wrote about how we're settling into a rhythm of life.  Well, in all honesty, it's not so easy to create rhythm in any life.  Take the past 7 days, for example... Unexpected Snow Our part of Texas is not known for snow.  A week ago Thursday, however, we had the most snowfall the area has seen in about 32 years.  I know, I know, our family and friends back east don't even want

Hines Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11980056604604195540noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9431815.post-2350420559297389942010-02-08T12:24:00.000-05:002010-02-08T12:24:41.519-05:00

Almost 3 years ago Leslie and I were officially accepted as Global Teams missionaries.  Kevin Higgins, our director, coach, and friend, said at the end of our acceptance phone call, "Would you guys pray about whether there is someone you could invite to join you?  We are Global Teams, after all, and we would like to send you out with at team." After we hung up the phone, Leslie and looked at

Hines Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11980056604604195540noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9431815.post-264025493703105332010-02-01T15:48:00.000-05:002010-02-01T15:48:32.842-05:00

So, we're settled in -- as settled as we can expect to be in this season of transition. I take the older kids to school every morning but Wednesdays, when Granddad gets to do the honors.  They ride the bus home from Sunnyvale Elementary and are dropped off at the front of the long, gravel driveway.   Chance the dog runs to greet them, and Julia does as well whenever she's outside.  The donkeys

Hines Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11980056604604195540noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9431815.post-4711833854980314532010-01-21T11:26:00.000-05:002010-01-21T11:26:29.038-05:00

Leslie overheard 3 year old Lucy singing the following ditty: I like my mom She's cherry cherry When she's happy She loves me When she's wrong She loves me When she's mad She loves me And all the time She loves me

Hines Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11980056604604195540noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9431815.post-27533204161350589012010-01-09T00:08:00.000-05:002010-01-09T00:08:44.097-05:00

This map of Africa was the last item left in our house in Ambridge just before my Dad and left a week ago.  It's fitting, I think, that the final thing I removed from our walls is a representation of what has become the focal point of our lives.  We came to Ambridge not knowing that we would leave for Africa. It was 8 1/2 years ago when my Dad and I drove a Uhaul from Austin to TX to Ambridge

Hines Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11980056604604195540noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9431815.post-85847864018629150712009-12-30T07:14:00.000-05:002009-12-30T07:14:48.411-05:00

It's hard to say goodbye.  How do you leave behind eight-and-a-half years and move on to something else?  Ambridge, Trinity, Church of the Savior, Pittsburgh, southwest Pennsylvania -- this is where our family grew into its current fullness, where we have known community and loneliness, great joy and deep depression, unity and fragmentation, intimacy and separation, bright beauty and clinging

Hines Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11980056604604195540noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9431815.post-17882810132122343442009-12-21T22:17:00.005-05:002009-12-21T22:27:23.084-05:00

"I could get used to living this way!"  After saying this, Jesse flopped back onto his bed in our temporary home -- a beach house on Folly Beach, "The Edge of America." What a way to live indeed!  After a full, warm welcome from the Gaillard family of six at the Charleston Airport, and a quick stop at Chick-Fil-A (paid for by that same family), we drove about 30 minutes to the above mentioned

Hines Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11980056604604195540noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9431815.post-21599207460602181602009-12-03T20:24:00.000-05:002009-12-03T20:24:46.214-05:00

I just have to share this. Lucy, our 3 year old, asked me to sing Keith Green's "There Is a Redeemer" at bedtime tonight.  As I sometimes do with our nighttime songs, we talked through the verses first, discussing what they mean.  I sang to her the last verse: When I stand in glory I will see His face And there I'll serve my king forever In that holy place I talked her through this verse,

Hines Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11980056604604195540noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9431815.post-86640696968402617902009-12-02T13:04:00.001-05:002009-12-02T13:07:41.140-05:00

In just a few days the whole family will be headed south to spend a little over a week down in South Carolina.  I was there last May meeting with various churches and individuals, and I quickly learned why all my Carolinian friends during seminary days had such a deep yearning to return home.  I mean, I could understand why Texans missed Texas so much, but South Carolina? Now I understand. 

Hines Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11980056604604195540noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9431815.post-62535918043294139192009-11-20T12:15:00.000-05:002009-11-20T12:15:39.739-05:00

Right after Christmas, we're moving from our home in Ambridge to my parents' home in Sunnyvale, TX -- the beautiful Ten Acres. Originally we had planned to move before Christmas, but the schedule is too tight.  We've been focusing our energy on partner development -- writing proposals, visiting churches in the area (we've had good times with the folks at Trinity in Beaver and St. David's in

Hines Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11980056604604195540noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9431815.post-68164377239980017202009-11-20T11:38:00.000-05:002009-11-20T11:38:50.982-05:00

Although I'm not thrilled about turning 39 (more on that later), I love daddy birthdays.  The days leading up to it are full of hushed voices and surreptitious card making and unintended hints and shouts of "Don't look in here!" and over-compensations ("Did you go into the basement?!  I mean, there's nothing down there, no surprise or anything, but did you go down there?  Did you see anything?!")

Hines Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11980056604604195540noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9431815.post-8686026183186635022009-11-11T10:50:00.000-05:002009-11-11T10:50:45.516-05:00

This past weekend was the 144th annual convention of my diocese. (For those of you who aren't Anglican, once a year all the leadership of our diocese comes together to hear from our bishop and standing committee, and to make decisions about our life together.  The business can be as mundane as approving budgets or as exciting as welcoming new congregations into our community and hearing about

Hines Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11980056604604195540noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9431815.post-91327649754709903022009-11-02T14:29:00.001-05:002009-11-02T14:30:26.096-05:00

There is a great little book called Serving as Senders that walks communities through what it means to be called to support cross cultural missionaries.  It contains the following diagram (which I incorporated into another presentation): See that little ziz-zag line in the C area?  That's where we are.  Some days excited and motivated, some days overwhelmed and dragging -- but always moving

Hines Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11980056604604195540noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9431815.post-69649483388535607462009-11-01T21:41:00.000-05:002009-11-01T21:41:33.852-05:00

(Image from http://www.saatchi-gallery.co.uk/images/thumbnail1.php/8a9674e9.jpg) "On All Saints' Day, it is not just the saints of the church that we should remember in our prayers, but all the foolish ones and wise ones, the shy ones and overbearing ones, the broken ones and whole ones, the despots and and tosspots and crackpots of our lives who, one way or another, have been our particular

Hines Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11980056604604195540noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9431815.post-48246159391567777472009-11-01T10:07:00.000-05:002009-11-01T10:07:29.755-05:00

I got the following quotation from my father-in-law (Robert Montgomery) who got it from Kendall Harmon who got it from Eugene Peterson in his book Subversive Spirituality: Because an appetite for God is easily manipulated into a consumer activity, we need these wise, sane friends as guides and companions. There are entrepreneurs among us who see the widespread hunger for spirituality as a

Hines Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11980056604604195540noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9431815.post-14502539000587690872009-10-26T14:16:00.000-05:002009-10-26T14:16:18.004-05:00

(image from http://www.architecture411.com/common/notes/1/plans.jpg)  My first visit to East Africa was in January 2005.  The first major hitch in my plan was that I my original contact in Kenya seemingly had dropped off the face of the earth (or maybe into the Rift Valley), and I therefore had no one to pick me up at the airport -- and I was in London about to board a plane.  I quickly tapped

Hines Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11980056604604195540noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9431815.post-69061010546701544882009-10-19T12:07:00.000-05:002009-10-19T12:07:02.190-05:00

We cannot create the wind or set it in motion, but we can set our sails to catch it when it comes; we cannot make the electricity, but we can stretch the wire along upon which it is to run and do its work; we cannot, in a word, control the Spirit, but we can so place ourselves before the Lord, and so do the things He has bidden us do, that we will come under the influence and power of His mighty

Hines Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11980056604604195540noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9431815.post-1113487433775776952005-04-14T08:57:00.000-05:002005-04-14T09:07:27.146-05:00

It’s been much too long since I’ve posted, I know, and I’m not sure how many of y’all are still visiting our blog. I know you’ve missed me, however, so I’m giving y’all a small update as my graduation date draws nigh.We have decided to remain in Ambridge for the next year as we prepare to leave for Uganda. The four needs that have been most immediately before us are: A group of people committed

Hines Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11980056604604195540noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9431815.post-1108869966408996672005-02-19T22:16:00.000-05:002005-02-19T22:30:39.786-05:00

Since our decision to go to Uganda, these are some of the responses we’ve heard: “God bless your heart for Africa…. So you’re off to the mission field…? Sounds like your calling has been clarified….”Although we haven’t been thinking in these terms specifically, heart, mission, and calling are all a part of the reason we feel God is saying a clear ‘yes’ in response to the question of Africa.

Hines Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11980056604604195540noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9431815.post-1108611333656596312005-02-16T22:31:00.000-05:002005-02-16T22:35:33.656-05:00

Please keep checking back. I'm beginning the slow slide into the burial of studies, but I'm committed to keeping my few loyal blog-fans updated.Coming soon:-Revisiting why we're going to Uganda.-How God has confirmed the call.-Excitements, Fears, and Prayer RequestsHeck, I might even throw in a few tidbits from my studies just for fun!

Hines Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11980056604604195540noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9431815.post-1108064864303656552005-02-10T13:17:00.000-05:002005-02-10T14:57:32.470-05:00

Leslie and I agree that this is the direction God is taking us. Here's a snippet of the email I sent to the principal and deputy-principal of Bishop Barham University College. (For a refresher on the school, look at the second paragraph of my "Thursday in Uganda" posting and the entirety of "The Swiss Alps of Africa." You can also go to Bishop Barham on the Web for more details.) ---snip---

Hines Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11980056604604195540noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9431815.post-1107717074333240312005-02-06T14:09:00.000-05:002005-02-06T14:12:44.566-05:00

This Monday and Tuesday (Feb. 7th and 8th), Leslie and I are fasting (yes, even on Mardi Gras), praying, and listening. We are going to talk and make a decision on Tuesday evening. Would y’all please join us in prayer over these two days? By the way, not only are we praying for discernment as to whether God is calling us to Africa, but we’re also needing to decide whether we will enter the

Hines Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11980056604604195540noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9431815.post-1107202726194871712005-01-31T15:04:00.000-05:002005-01-31T15:18:46.196-05:00

Being in the snowy cold of Ambridge and sweet warmth of family makes Africa seem far, far away. Heck...it is far, far away! The reality of Africa, however, is pressing on my heart, and we need to make a decision soon. Leslie and I have decided that we need to set a definite decision deadline, and set aside some specific time for talking, praying, and listening. When we do so, I will let y'all

Hines Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11980056604604195540noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9431815.post-1106732364676987922005-01-26T04:36:00.000-05:002005-01-26T04:39:24.676-05:00

Apologies for the sudden spurt of posts. I haven’t had Internet access for several days. It’s Wednesday, and I’m sitting in Heathrow again, writing this post. I shouldn’t be sitting Heathrow; I should be on an airplane headed for D.C. My flight from Nairobi was delayed by 1.5 hours. Thankfully, flights leave fairly frequently from Heathrow for D.C., so I’m booked to leave at noon, arriving

Hines Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11980056604604195540noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9431815.post-1106732194875067552005-01-26T04:34:00.000-05:002005-01-26T04:36:34.876-05:00

Kampala Evangelical School of Theology is one of the few theological institutions established and run by Ugandans. It’s currently a smaller school, with about 50 students, 7 full-time faculty, and 15 part-time faculty. Amazingly, due to what I imagine to be Herculean effort on the part of the lecturers, they offer 7 different diplomas. The physical location is in one of the suburbs of Kampala;

Hines Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11980056604604195540noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9431815.post-1106731949907502752005-01-26T04:29:00.000-05:002005-01-26T04:34:06.280-05:00

One of the highlights of my trip was my dinner with the provost of Mukono cathedral. I knew I was in a special place when one of the women welcomed Frederick and me with a joyful ululation and a short dance. It is a household of about 15 people, and all were very kind in their reception of me. One thing I noticed in particular, however, was how the provost (Stephen) served his family.

Hines Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11980056604604195540noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9431815.post-1106731726699203712005-01-26T04:28:00.000-05:002005-01-26T04:28:46.700-05:00

Tertullian, I believe, stated, “The blood of the martyrs is the seed of the church.” For supporting evidence, visit the shrine of the Ugandan Martyrs just outside Kampala. In the 1800’s, missionaries came to Buganda, the most powerful kingdom in what is now Uganda. The reigning king welcomed them, and Christianity gained a sure foothold in East Africa. The king’s son, however, realized the

Hines Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11980056604604195540noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9431815.post-1106731624391130372005-01-26T04:21:00.000-05:002005-01-26T04:27:04.390-05:00

On Friday, January 21, Frederick, our driver Jacob, and I made a grueling 6.5 hour journey to Kabale to visit Bishop Barham University College. The roads were hot and dusty and the traffic was terrible, but the company was great. It was good to get so much time with Frederick to renew and deepen our friendship, and Jacob added humor and insight into our conversations as well. I have to say

Hines Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11980056604604195540noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9431815.post-1106491862738186002005-01-23T09:47:00.000-05:002005-01-23T09:51:02.736-05:00

A simple one, but very much needed at this time. I'm beginning to feel a bit weary, and my motivation is flagging. I want to be able to remain engaged with my final few meetings: the provost of Mukono cathedral, Uganda Martyrs, services on the campus of UCU, and Mark Meynell and Kampal Evangelical School of Theology. Please pray for my ability to focus, for my ability to listen well and to

Hines Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11980056604604195540noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9431815.post-1106491624966270452005-01-23T09:45:00.000-05:002005-01-23T09:47:04.966-05:00

This story is actually from my time in Kenya, but I think it’s worth sharing. Maruti and I had driven almost 3 hours on a hot, dusty road into Kenya’s interior. I had drunk about 2 liters of water for the sake of survival, and now sat with my friend waiting for the arrival of the vice principal. It’s always a bit of an embarrassing thing to excuse oneself to meet bodily needs, but I knew that

Hines Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11980056604604195540noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9431815.post-1106491549079797112005-01-23T09:44:00.000-05:002005-01-23T09:45:49.080-05:00

Ironically, I haven’t been able to post to my blog as often since I’ve arrived in Uganda. It’s ironic because, as I sit in the wonderful home of Mark and Abby Bartels, I have access to a wireless network! That network, however, has been down ever since I arrived. The other reason I haven’t been able to post is that my schedule here is much more full than it was in Kenya. Frederick has been

Hines Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11980056604604195540noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9431815.post-1106332380701229202005-01-21T13:30:00.000-05:002005-01-21T13:33:00.703-05:00

Believe it or not, I’ve been able to squeeze in a little bit of my upcoming semester’s assigned reading. Here a couple of snippets from Out of the Depths by Bernhard W. Anderson, a book on how “the psalms speak for us today.” The psalms of the Bible are not individualistic poems such as a modern person might compose to express personal thoughts and feelings. Rather, the psalms show that the

Hines Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11980056604604195540noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9431815.post-1106332180558995602005-01-21T13:27:00.000-05:002005-01-21T13:29:40.556-05:00

Here are some of the academic realities of teaching at these schools in Kenya: Teachers must have a degree at least one level higher than the level at which they teach. In other, words, with a Masters I can only teach diploma and bachelor level students. Bishop Hannington’s in Mombasa and St. Andrew’s in Kabare are diploma level schools, and their diplomas are monitored and awarded by St. Paul’

Hines Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11980056604604195540noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9431815.post-1106332006437337762005-01-21T13:23:00.000-05:002005-01-21T13:26:46.436-05:00

I’m tired after a long day of hot, dusty driving, but the day has been a very good one. John Maruti, a Kenyan who has become a friend and a brother, drove me 2.5 hours into the interior of Kenya to visit St. Andrew’s. Maruti is a gentle man, a committed follower of Jesus. The drive to and from St. Andrew’s did not feel long because of how much we enjoyed each other’s company. He shared with

Hines Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11980056604604195540noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9431815.post-1106113340229584802005-01-19T01:41:00.000-05:002005-01-19T00:42:20.230-05:00

I don’t remember the exact words, but in The Lord of the Rings Gandalf the Grey observes that a meeting between wizards is never a coincidence. When wizards’ paths “happen” to cross, something significant must be drawing them together, even if the purpose is hidden at the time. I have begun to think that the same thing is true of the unforeseen meeting of followers of Jesus. This evening I was

Hines Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11980056604604195540noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9431815.post-1106113254984838572005-01-19T01:39:00.000-05:002005-01-19T00:40:54.983-05:00

What a beautiful place! St. Paul’s United Theological Collegesits several thousand feet above Nairobi, and is surrounded by tea farms and much greenery. The climate up there right now is comparable to a summer day in the Rockies – not quite hot in the sun, and quite cool in the shade. Winter (August-September), they insist, is very cold, the temperature even dropping to almost 45 degrees! (Oi

Hines Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11980056604604195540noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9431815.post-1106028158777634012005-01-18T01:59:00.000-05:002005-01-18T01:08:01.946-05:00

Monday, January 17 – Get sunburned while mechanics work on car on the side of the road. -Wander the streets of Nairobi with a questionable guide. -Spend more time than intended on responding to email and writing a blog. -Wash underwear in the sink. -Go to bed before 11pm for the first time since leaving home. Tuesday, January 18 – Drive to Limuru to visit Dr. Esther Mombo and St. Pauls United

Hines Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11980056604604195540noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9431815.post-1106028018014209712005-01-18T01:53:00.000-05:002005-01-18T01:00:18.013-05:00

Here are a few of the more memorable moments from traveling in Kenya: Being helped by a friendly airport policeman. When my ride did not show up, he guided me to a phone which didn’t accept my Kenya-purchased calling card; then he took me to a local shop which helped me successfully place the call, and then interrupted when the owner attempted to con me out of my card; then he stayed with me

Hines Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11980056604604195540noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9431815.post-1106027595384656302005-01-18T01:47:00.000-05:002005-04-14T10:58:23.773-05:00

I wish I had allowed for more time in Mombasa. My weekend with Festus, his family, and his colleagues and friends was much too short. Nevertheless, I do feel that I was able to get a fairly clear idea about what life in Mombasa would be like. Here are a few thoughts:The friendship with Festus, Grace, and their children is a significant draw to Mombasa. There is an ease of relationship with them

Hines Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11980056604604195540noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9431815.post-1105797543747784772005-01-15T08:56:00.000-05:002005-01-15T08:59:03.746-05:00

(I emailed in a post yesterday, but apparently it did not come through. I'll try to retrieve it later.) I’m in Mombasa at an Internet Café. I had intended to write this up on the plane from Nairobi to Mombasa, but I got into an interesting conversation with a Kenyan. It was the first conversation with a non-Christian I’ve had since arriving, and I enjoyed our interaction immensely. When the

Hines Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11980056604604195540noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9431815.post-1105618384209587452005-01-13T07:12:00.000-05:002005-01-13T07:13:04.210-05:00

I just have to say that my flight from Pittsburgh to D.C. was a bit nerve-wracking. I have never been on such a small airplane. It was a ‘shuttle flight’ on a Saab 340. Translation – a twin-prop with room for maybe 30 passengers. You feel every dip and turn and bump. Being one with the air was…er…prayer-inspiring. The flight from D.C. to London was, of course, on the other end of the

Hines Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11980056604604195540noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9431815.post-1105617706713264732005-01-13T06:56:00.000-05:002005-01-13T07:01:46.713-05:00

So there I was at the Washington-Dulles International airport, threading my way through hundreds of delayed passengers, looking for an outlet in order to recharge my iBook before the long flight across the pond. Finally finding one outside the men’s restroom, I plopped down, plugged in my computer, leaned my back against the wall, and pulled out my bible. I sat there feeling mildly

Hines Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11980056604604195540noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9431815.post-1105556519508691372005-01-12T09:35:00.000-05:002005-01-12T14:01:59.506-05:00

I leave for the airport in just a couple of hours! I'm feeling a little excited, but mostly sad. The sadness has surprised me, but it has not taken me long to understand its source. I'm sad to go on this adventure without Leslie, and I'm sad for the two weeks of Jesse's and Georgia's lives that I'll be missing. I am also quite encouraged. Many of you have responded to my blog, and several of

Hines Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11980056604604195540noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9431815.post-1105418980474163302005-01-10T23:43:00.000-05:002005-01-11T00:06:31.823-05:00

Here is the program Frederick has set up for me: Thursday 20/01/05 1:15PM - Arrival at Entebbe Airport (picked by Frederick) 5:00Pm - Meet and have Dinner with Prof. and Mrs. Noll. - Spend the night with Bartel’s family. Friday 21/01/2005 10.00 am - Meet the Archbishop 11:00 a.m - Meet Dr. George Tebasigwa. 12:00 Pm - Travel to Kabale - Spend the night at Kabale Saturday 22/01/05

Hines Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11980056604604195540noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9431815.post-1105418588805651282005-01-10T23:42:00.000-05:002005-01-10T23:43:08.806-05:00

Here is my itinerary: January 12 – 14: I’ll be traveling to Nairobi, Kenya, with a brief layover in D.C. and an 8 hour layover in London. I’ll arrive bleary eyed and excited in Nairobi early on the morning of the 15th, but with no-one to greet me. I have been unable to connect with my contact in Nairobi. I’m looking for a good hotel. January 15 – 16: I’ll fly to Mombasa to spend the

Hines Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11980056604604195540noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9431815.post-1105418512489698582005-01-10T23:39:00.000-05:002005-01-10T23:41:52.490-05:00

We need prayer for: -Peace, patience, and protection for Leslie and the kids in Travis’ absence. -Safe travel for Travis. -Clear communication with the various schools and people Travis will visit. -Discernment as to which place is the best fit for our family.

Hines Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11980056604604195540noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9431815.post-1105418045494042272005-01-10T23:31:00.000-05:002005-01-10T23:34:05.493-05:00

I had intended to begin this blog with witty and wise words about my trip to Africa, but I’ll set that intention alongside the other best laid plans of mice and men. I leave Wednesday, January 12 for Africa. If you don’t know why I’m going, here’s a snippet from our family newsletter: --snip-- What comes as a surprise to us is that it seems as though our next step forward will carry us across

Hines Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11980056604604195540noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9431815.post-1102015951217260002004-12-02T14:29:00.000-05:002004-12-02T14:40:12.473-05:00

Follow us as we go explore Africa.

Hines Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11980056604604195540noreply@blogger.com0