Bold movement, lasting impact. A small town’s faith-driven dream has grown into a cross-continental mission that reshapes lives in Uganda and inspires a hometown to believe bigger.
Statesboro gathered at The Oak Room in the Venues at Ogeechee Technical College to celebrate a decade of Delight in the Lord Ministries (DLM), the Christian non-profit founded by Bulloch County native Cierra Crowe. The night marked ten years since Crowe moved to Uganda at 19 and launched DLM in November 2015, turning a simple intention to serve into a comprehensive program that now offers education, medical care, weekly Bible teaching, and broad community outreach.
The event featured a silent auction, a thoughtfully catered dinner, and a homecoming vibe for Crowe, who remains deeply connected to her roots even as her work spans continents. Attendees enjoyed dishes from Southern Flair Catering by Susan Thomas, including roast beef, baked chicken, mac and cheese, green beans, salad, bread, and traditional desserts, while they reflected on a decade of growth.
Crowe shared candid, heartfelt stories from rural villages around Kampala, emphasizing how village life centers on shared work and mutual care. “Village life is slower and deeply connected,” she explained. “We plant beans together, prepare meals, help kids with homework, and simply do life side by side.” What began as an education-focused initiative has evolved into a robust ministry that prioritizes relationships, resilience, and everyday interactions.
The mentorship has blossomed into a thriving primary-school program, offering academic support, weekly activities for children, and extensive community outreach. Photos from Uganda, along with Crowe’s firsthand accounts, showcased a journey from six sponsored students in 2016 to seventy-two in 2025, with ongoing education sponsorships, basic care, and consistent support for children who might otherwise go without.
One of Crowe’s most cherished moments involved a mentee who expressed a desire to open an orphanage and teach others the way she has learned. “Moments like that remind me why I’m there,” Crowe said. “Living in a different culture isn’t always easy, but watching these children grow keeps me committed.”
Crowe acknowledged obstacles but reaffirmed her mission: “I remember why God called me to Uganda. I am here to glorify Him alone.”
The event drew more than 130 guests who enjoyed a sense of hometown pride and a reaffirmed commitment to the ministry. A highlight was the ‘Brick by Brick’ campaign, aimed at expanding the ministry’s school facilities with a goal of $184,000 to fund two new classroom wings, a library, and a computer lab. The campaign reached 32% of its goal at the time, with additional pledges anticipated in 2025 and 2026.
Lisa Crowe, Cierra’s mother, expressed continued faith in divine provision for the ministry, noting that the work stands as a living testimony of walking by faith and trusting that God will meet every need.
Although Crowe lives abroad, her heart remains tied to Statesboro. The anniversary night underscored how a hometown can plant dreams powerful enough to cross oceans and grow into a thriving Christian primary boarding school ministry.
Looking ahead, Crowe expressed gratitude for the community’s support and hope for what lies next. She praised the consistent funding that makes ministry in Uganda possible and emphasized the enduring enthusiasm of young people eager to learn about God.
What starts in a small room in Statesboro becomes a global journey of faith, education, and service. Is your perspective on charitable work shifting as you consider how local roots can fuel international impact? If you disagree or have ideas about nurturing community-driven missions, share your thoughts in the comments.
