The Watoto Children’s Choir from Uganda brought a bit of Africa to Raleigh Court Presbyterian Church last Friday evening as they presented their Concert of Hope. The twenty-two children, ages seven through fourteen, received prolonged applause for their outstanding performance of music and dance, which is an energetic fusion of contemporary gospel and traditional African rhythm. The audience appreciated their enthusiasm, their focus and their boundless energy. The program included information about their country and the organization that changed their lives.
“Watoto” means “the children.” Founded by missionaries Gary and Marilyn Skinner in 1992, Watoto is sponsored by KPC, a thriving church in Kampala, Uganda. Its purpose is to change the lives of children orphaned by AIDS and warfare, enabling them to become educated, responsible Christians, and future leaders in their country. Instead of an institutional orphanage, the children live in a Watoto village, in a house for eight children and a “mother” (women widowed by AIDS or war). This gives them a family environment –they are brothers and sisters to each other and the woman becomes their mother. Each village also includes a school, a church and a clinic. At present, 2000 children live in Watoto villages. They hope to have this concept become a model for other African countries.
The Children’s Choir was instituted in 1994. With a team of adult leaders, the choir tours worldwide, presenting Concerts of Hope and telling the Watoto story of how the love of God transforms lives. Audiences learn that millions of African children are orphaned by AIDS and warfare. Opportunities to help with this transforming work are available through Watoto: by sponsoring a child ($35.00 monthly), by donations, by purchasing handmade jewelry, scarves and CDs displayed at concerts, and by prayer support.
To learn more about Watoto, go to the website www.watoto.com
