Authored by Mathiew Saba, Curator of Missions in Uganda.
Bill Wegener was born on March 29, 1955, into a world that offered him little parental love and affection. His early days were marked by mistreatment from his mother, a harsh beginning that no child should endure. This difficult start led to his placement in a foster home, where he continued to struggle with the absence of stable and loving parental figures. Despite these challenges, Bill survived, attributing his perseverance and survival to the Grace of God. This faith became a cornerstone in his life, guiding him through the turbulent times of his youth.
Growing up as an orphan, Papa Bill deeply empathized with other orphans and the less privileged. His experiences of neglect and lack of familial love forged a deep-rooted desire to help those in similar situations. This empathy became a driving force in his life, compelling him to seek ways to make a difference. Papa Bill’s journey was about overcoming his hardships and transforming his pain into a source of strength and compassion for others who faced similar struggles.
In the early 2000s, Bill Wegener made a life-changing visit to Uganda, a country that quickly captured his heart. He was deeply moved by the resilience and spirit of the Ugandan people, particularly the orphans who faced daunting challenges similar to those he had known. Papa Bill felt an immediate connection to these children and was inspired to take action. His love for Uganda and its people spurred him to sponsor orphans, ensuring they received the education and care he had missed out on during his childhood.
His dedication to helping orphans in Uganda profoundly reflected his personal journey. He poured his energy and resources into providing these children with opportunities for a better future, driven by a desire to give them the love and support he had longed for in his youth. His actions are beyond mere financial assistance; he has become a mentor and a loving figure to many, offering the emotional and spiritual guidance he desperately needed as a child. Bill’s work in Uganda is a testament to his belief in the power of love and education to transform lives.
His journey from a neglected child to a benefactor of countless needy children is a powerful reminder of the impact one can have when one chooses to channel one’s pain into helping others. Papa Bill’s legacy will live on in the lives of the many children he supported, each a testament to the enduring power of love and the Grace of God that guided him throughout his life.
The article picture was taken about 15 years ago when he was helping a ministry called GodLovesKids.