Robert Sityo, the director of Fountain of Hope Ministries, is committed to help teach the next generation of Christ-following leaders in Uganda.
In the New Testament the Apostle Paul said to Timothy, “You then, my son, be strong in the grace that is in Christ Jesus. And the things you have heard me say in the presence of many witnesses entrust to reliable people who will also be qualified to teach others.” II Timothy 2:1,2
Robert and Sarah Sityo have been dedicated servants of Christ since their marriage in 2005. As they completed their studies at a local seminary in Jinja, Uganda, the Sityos fervently prayed for a way to establish a church in their predominantly Muslim community. Despite facing initial challenges, with Robert often preaching to Sarah as the sole attendee on Sundays, their unwavering faith and determination led them to a divine revelation.
In a remarkable dream, God spoke to Sarah, revealing that they should start a school. Embracing this divine calling, they took a step of faith and initiated a humble pre-school, gradually adding one grade each year. The result was astonishing – the Fountain of Hope School now boasts an impressive enrollment of over 1300 students, with approximately half of them embracing Christ as their Savior.
This school became a conduit for God’s abundant grace to flow throughout the community. The impact was extraordinary as countless Ugandans found their way to Christ, and new churches began to sprout up, spreading the message of hope and love. Every passing year saw the birth of more churches, each contributing to the spiritual revival of the region.
As the spiritual movement gained momentum, the Sityos’ commitment to equipping and empowering others deepened. They established a Bible training school, nurturing a new generation of leaders who would carry forth the transformative message of the gospel.
The story of Robert and Sarah Sityo and their Fountain of Hope School is a testament to the power of faith, obedience, and a heart open to God’s calling. Their journey from a small pre-school to a thriving hub of spiritual revival and community development serves as an inspiring example for all. Through their unwavering dedication, countless lives have been transformed, and hope continues to shine brightly in the heart of Uganda.
A facet of the Sityo story about them becoming the guardians of 18 children and having triplets is on a blog you may find fascinating.
Please consider supporting a new church or training a young pastor or supporting the school.
While studying on a Billy Graham Scholarship at Wheaton College, Robert joined Faith and Learning International, a 501(c)3 non-profit organization in Wheaton, IL who oversees the financial support for Fountain of Hope Ministries.
Fulfilling the Great Commission by sharing the love of Jesus Christ with communities in Africa is a profound calling. Through acts of compassion, proclaiming the Gospel, discipleship, building Christian communities, cultural sensitivity, and empowering indigenous leaders, we can make a lasting impact on the lives of countless individuals. Let us heed the call to reach the nations, ensuring that the transformative power of Jesus’ love reaches every corner of Africa, ultimately bringing salvation, hope, and eternal life to those who are in need.
Spiritual Nourishment and Discipleship: In remote areas of Uganda, access to spiritual resources and Christian teachings may be limited. By planting healthy churches, Fountain of Hope Ministries ensures that people have a place to gather, worship, and receive regular spiritual nourishment. Through biblical teachings, prayer, and fellowship, church members are equipped to grow in their faith and become strong disciples of Christ.
Addressing Social and Physical Needs: Holistic ministry recognizes that spiritual transformation goes hand in hand with addressing physical and social needs. Healthy churches established by Fountain of Hope Ministries often serve as hubs for community development projects. They may provide access to clean water, healthcare services, education, and vocational training, demonstrating God’s love in practical ways.
Cultural Sensitivity and Contextualization: Fountain of Hope Ministries understands the importance of contextualizing the gospel message to the local culture and customs. When planting healthy churches, the ministry takes time to understand the unique beliefs and practices of the community and presents the gospel in a way that resonates with their traditions, making it more accessible and relatable.
Leadership Development: To ensure the long-term sustainability of the churches and their impact, the ministry invests in leadership development. Local leaders are identified, trained, and equipped to take on pastoral and administrative roles within the churches. This approach not only empowers the community but also fosters a sense of ownership and responsibility for the church’s growth and development.
Building Strong Community Bonds: Healthy churches act as centers of unity within the community. They bring people together, fostering relationships and mutual support. This sense of community helps to alleviate feelings of isolation and strengthens social cohesion, contributing to the overall well-being of the residents.
Spreading Hope and Joy: In regions where people might face challenging circumstances, such as poverty, illness, or conflict, healthy churches become beacons of hope and joy. The message of the gospel offers comfort, encouragement, and a sense of purpose, inspiring individuals to face their challenges with renewed strength and faith.
Multiplication Effect: When healthy churches are successfully established, they often become catalysts for further church planting efforts in neighboring areas. As individuals from these communities experience transformation through the gospel, they are motivated to share it with others, leading to a ripple effect of spiritual growth and impact.
At Fountain of Hope Ministries, we are committed to reaching communities with the gospel message of God’s salvation through Christ. The birth of each of the 22 churches began in 2010 with an evangelistic crusade, new believers’ baptism, and the construction of a church for this community of believers. A pastor is then called and trained at the Bukeeka School of Theology to teach and serve this community holistically.
Ensuring Doctrinal Soundness: In remote regions, theological knowledge may be limited, and there is a risk of misunderstandings or the spread of incorrect teachings. By providing comprehensive theological training, Fountain of Hope Ministries ensures that pastors and leaders are well-grounded in the essential doctrines of the Christian faith. This helps prevent the propagation of heretical or distorted beliefs and fosters a community that is firmly rooted in biblical truth.
Strengthening Pastoral Leadership: Pastors are central figures in any Christian community. By offering theological training, Fountain of Hope Ministries empowers pastors with the knowledge and skills necessary for effective leadership. They learn how to properly interpret and teach the Scriptures, shepherd their congregations with wisdom and love, and guide believers in their spiritual journey.
Promoting Contextualized Ministry: Proper theological training helps pastors and leaders understand how to apply biblical principles to the specific cultural and social context of their communities. This contextualization is essential for making the gospel message relevant and relatable to the people they serve, leading to greater impact and receptivity.
Encouraging Discipleship and Spiritual Growth: Pastors and leaders trained in biblical theology are better equipped to disciple and mentor others in their congregations. They can guide individuals to deeper spiritual growth, helping them apply biblical principles to their daily lives and develop a closer relationship with God.
Fostering Unity and Collaboration: Theological training often brings together pastors and leaders from different churches and denominations. This collaborative environment encourages unity among the Christian community, promoting mutual respect and understanding despite theological differences. A united body of Christ is better positioned to impact society positively.
Raising a New Generation of Leaders: As trained pastors and leaders pass on their knowledge and skills to others, a new generation of well-equipped Christian leaders emerges. This multiplication effect expands the reach and impact of the ministry’s theological training, leading to the establishment of more biblically sound churches and the further spread of the gospel.
Counteracting False Teachings: In remote areas, there may be the influence of syncretistic or false religious teachings. Well-trained pastors and leaders can effectively address and counteract these false beliefs by providing clear biblical teaching and evidence-based apologetics.
Promoting Sustainable Ministry: Training pastors and leaders creates a self-sustaining cycle of ministry. As local leaders grow in their understanding of theology, they can continue to train others in their communities, reducing the dependence on external assistance and fostering long-term spiritual growth.
Over 284 church leaders have graduated from the Bukeeka School of Theology (BEST), an extension school under the direction of Robert Sityo and a team of qualified teachers. The goal is to develop leaders who bring the gospel and God’s restoration to communities through compassionate leadership. As of 2022, 120 graduates are serving as pastors, and there are currently 174 new students studying at the school.
Holistic Education: Fountain of Hope Schools adopt a holistic approach to education, emphasizing not only academic excellence but also the spiritual, moral, and character development of the students. By integrating Christian values and principles into the curriculum, the schools create an environment where students are encouraged to grow spiritually alongside their intellectual growth.
Biblical Teachings and Discipleship: As Christian schools, Fountain of Hope Schools actively incorporate biblical teachings into daily lessons and school activities. Students have the opportunity to study the Bible, learn about the life of Jesus, and understand Christian ethics and values. This discipleship process helps shape students’ worldview and fosters a deeper understanding of their faith.
Chaplaincy and Worship Services: Fountain of Hope Schools often have dedicated chaplains or spiritual leaders who guide students in their spiritual journey. Regular worship services, devotions, and prayer times are organized to provide spiritual nourishment and foster a sense of community among students and staff.
Positive Role Models: The teachers and staff at Fountain of Hope Schools serve as positive role models for the students. Their Christian character and dedication to the ministry’s values leave a lasting impression on the young minds, helping them to see the practical application of faith in daily life.
Outreach to Families: Through the schools, Fountain of Hope Ministries also reaches out to the families of students. Parents and guardians are invited to participate in school activities, workshops, and events that promote family values and spiritual growth. This outreach extends the ministry’s impact beyond the school premises and into the homes of the students.
Community Impact: As the students at Fountain of Hope Schools grow in their faith and knowledge of the gospel, they become positive influences within their communities. They share their faith with family members, friends, and neighbors, effectively becoming ambassadors of the gospel in their remote areas.
Breaking the Cycle of Poverty: Education is a powerful tool for breaking the cycle of poverty. By providing quality education in remote areas, Fountain of Hope Schools empower students to pursue higher studies and secure better opportunities, lifting families and communities out of poverty and providing a hopeful future.
Nurturing Future Leaders: Fountain of Hope Schools aim to raise a generation of leaders who are not only academically competent but also grounded in their faith and committed to serving their communities. These future leaders can play a crucial role in the spiritual and social transformation of Uganda.
The primary and award-winning secondary school, located in Bukeeka, Uganda, now has over 1384 students. This Christian school is situated in a predominantly Muslim community and provides a challenging education through a Christian faculty. The school also has an active Student Sponsorship Program, which is gaining traction. Thanks to this school, hundreds of families have become followers of Jesus.
Meeting Physical Needs with Compassion: In remote areas of Uganda, access to medical facilities and healthcare services can be scarce. Fountain of Hope Ministries’ Medical Outreach addresses this critical need by bringing much-needed medical care directly to these communities. Through free medical camps, health screenings, and treatments, the ministry demonstrates Christ’s love and compassion, fostering a sense of care and concern for the well-being of the people.
Opening Hearts to the Gospel: As the Medical Outreach provides essential healthcare services, it opens doors for sharing the gospel with the communities. The compassionate care extended by the ministry creates a receptive environment where people are more willing to listen to the message of hope and love found in the gospel.
Integrated Spiritual Counseling: The Medical Outreach doesn’t stop at physical healing; it also provides spiritual counseling and emotional support. Trained volunteers and staff members offer prayers, encouragement, and biblical guidance to patients and their families, addressing not just physical ailments but also the deeper spiritual needs of individuals.
Breaking Barriers of Isolation: In remote areas, communities may feel isolated and forgotten. The presence of Fountain of Hope Ministries’ Medical Outreach brings a sense of connection and belonging, breaking down barriers and building trust. The ministry’s commitment to serving these areas helps bridge the gap between urban centers and marginalized regions.
Empowering Local Churches: The Medical Outreach also collaborates with local churches, empowering them to actively engage in community service. By partnering with local congregations, the ministry strengthens their outreach efforts, amplifying the impact on the spiritual lives of the people.
Demonstrating God’s Power: Healing and restoration through medical interventions offer tangible evidence of God’s power and care for His people. The miraculous recoveries and improved health witnessed through the Medical Outreach serve as powerful testimonies of God’s love and providence, leading many to seek a deeper understanding of their faith.
Long-Term Community Transformation: Regular and sustained medical care through the outreach programs establishes a consistent presence in the communities. Over time, this commitment builds trust and credibility, leading to long-term community transformation, as more people embrace the gospel message and its transformative power.
Encouraging Volunteerism and Missions: The Medical Outreach inspires volunteers from within Uganda and beyond to participate in meaningful missions. The opportunity to serve others through medical assistance attracts dedicated individuals who desire to impact lives and contribute to the ministry’s work in remote areas.
The newest ministry grew out of the COVID pandemic. A team of medically trained individuals began bringing assessment skills and medicine to church communities. Since the beginning of 2022, they have served 1450 patients, and the medical ministry alone has seen over 340 people make salvation decisions.