Watoto means "the children" in Swahili. Initially, it operated out of Kampala's Imperial Hotel before the leadership took over a disused cinema which was renamed The Centre. The vision of the Church is to Celebrate Christ and care for the community. The vision states that "We are an English-speaking, cell based community church, celebrating Christ, growing and multiplying, as each one reaches one touching those around us with the love of Jesus bringing healing to the cities and the nations.
The church has an average congregation of 37, people who also meet in smaller cell groups. Each cell comprises about 7 to 10 members who meet at least once a week in members' homes to share in fellowship. Watoto Church has a leadership structure, with the Church Council at its apex.
It is the overall policy organ of Watoto Church and all its ministries. The council is responsible for strategic policy decisions as well as the management and smooth running of the church. On 3rd February , in an emotional service, Gary and Marilyn Skinner, the founders formally stepped down from their year role as team leaders of Watoto Ministries. The Skinners before a fully packed church, knelt down and washed the feet of their successors, Julius and Vernita Rwotlonyo.
Pastor Julius Rwotlonyo [ 6 ] is the current team leader of Watoto ministries, assisted by various campus pastors and other ministry leaders. The pastoral team, led by Pastor Edward Mwesigye, is responsible for the spiritual oversight of the church and its membership. Their approach to ministry is holistic and hence, the fruit thereof is an enhancement of the whole man - spirit, soul and body.
The elders' team is responsible for governing the direction of the church, guarding its doctrines, and together with the pastoral team, provide direction and authority within the church, encouraging and empowering members of the congregation to do what God has given them the ability to do.
