The Palmiters

Mike & Ana Palmiter

More than a decade ago, our family moved to Uganda through mission aviation. What began as a calling to serve through aviation gradually grew into a broader calling to create places where people could encounter God, find rest, and experience authentic community.

As the years passed, our lives became deeply rooted in the people and community around us. Through friendships with our neighbors, serving alongside local churches, and raising our three children in Uganda, our understanding of mission began to change. We discovered that while practical service is important, some of God’s deepest work happens through presence—sharing life together, extending hospitality, listening well, and creating spaces where people can encounter God and one another in meaningful ways.

Today, we have the privilege of serving with Arise Center in Arua, Uganda. Together with a remarkable Ugandan team, we welcome pastors, ministry leaders, organizations, families, and individuals seeking space to rest, reflect, and reconnect with God. Whether through retreats, leadership gatherings, or simple moments of hospitality, our hope is that every guest leaves encouraged, refreshed, and better equipped for the journey ahead.

At the heart of Arise is a simple vision: creating connection for community renewal. We believe renewal begins with connection. Connection with God, self, others and creation. As those connections deepen, lives are renewed, relationships flourish, and communities become places where others can thrive.

One of the greatest gifts of this journey has been serving alongside gifted Ugandan friends and colleagues whose wisdom, leadership, and faith continue to shape us. Arise is not something we have built for Uganda; it is something we have the privilege of building with our Ugandan teammates and neighbors. Together, we are learning what it means to cultivate places of welcome where people can encounter God and experience genuine belonging.

Uganda has shaped our family in ways we never expected. It is the place our children are growing up, where lifelong friendships have been formed, and where we have had the privilege of witnessing God’s faithfulness again and again. We are grateful to call it home.

We are deeply grateful for the many friends, churches, and partners who have faithfully prayed, given, and walked alongside us throughout this journey. Thank you for being part of this story. Your partnership makes it possible for Arise Center to continue welcoming people into places of rest, connection, and renewal, and we look forward with hope to all that God has ahead.