Interview with Joni and Friends Intern, Bryan

Have you ever considered serving as a Joni and Friends intern? Whether you attend Ministry and Missions Academy, a short-term mission, or a vocational internship, the Joni and Friends internship program will prepare you for disability ministry and advocacy. Read as we interview Bryan about his experience interning on a Global Mission to Uganda last summer.

JAF: Bryan, what outreach experiences were included in your internship?

Bryan: I was part of a team that worked at the Kampala School for the Physically Handicapped, and also had the opportunity to do a home visit with the family of a child we met in the slums.

JAF: What impacted you the most in terms of disability ministry?

Bryan: Seeing the joy in the faces of children as we helped them complete activities, get around, or simply played with them was one of the most rewarding feelings I’ve ever felt. The only thing standing between those with disabilities in Kampala and a “healthy” lifestyle are a lack of people willing to provide the necessary assistance. Most of those we encountered were incredibly self-sufficient. All the children helped each other get around and as they worked together it seemed they could accomplish anything.

JAF: How did this internship impact you spiritually?

Bryan: Those viewed by the world as “the least of these” is what we as believers are called to serve in this life. This internship showed me what it’s like to truly do so. The experience humbled me and gave me a greater awareness and appreciation for all human life.

JAF: How has your internship influenced your educational/career goals?

Bryan: This internship encouraged me to go back to school for my masters in occupational therapy. I definitely plan to make disability service a permanent and long-term part of my life.

Catch a glimpse of our Uganda Mission in action
EDUCATE. TRAIN. ACTIVATE.