Dear Partners,
I am back from my nine plus weeks ministering to the orphans of Ukraine. It went by so quickly !! So many blessings that took place I don’t even know where or how to begin or end this report. I thank God so much for His blessings and guidance. His protection and for my health during this trip. I must also thank all of you who PRAYED for me and the orphans. Thank you to those who gave. I couldn't do it without your help financially. ALL of your donations went directly to the kids and the expense of the translator.
Each day I would travel to an orphanage or to a government run summer camp. The orphanages would have around 200 + kids. When the orphans would be at the government summer camps there would be over 400 orphans from several orphanages. I also spent time with the kids from the trade school who are left in this world all on their own starting at the age of 15. I spent time with all these groups in various ways. God’s hand moved so much when I shared His love and care for each one of them. I was able to share His word with them and pray often with these hurting kids.
At times I was able to ask how they became an orphan. Their stories where all so different but yet all the same. Alcohol, drugs, TB, neglect were all so common in each one. But I couldn't help to see the individual pain, shame, and their tears in each of their eyes. All I could do was show that I cared give them a hug and listen. That is what they mostly wanted and needed. I would pray with them and let them know God can heal their pain and help them through it. Many saw their dad beating their mom to death. Many had been abandoned because drugs were more important. Their parents just simply left and never returned. Leaving kids at the age of 5, 6, or 7 defend for themselves. Many saw their dad walk out on the family and their mom turn to drugs, alcohol, or for different men. Some would go to live with grandparents but then they would get to sick, old, or die themselves. Many grandparents do not have enough money to feed and care for a child so off to the orphanage they would go. These stories add up too more than 1 million orphans in Ukraine. As we would talk I would ask in a group who desires a family. 9 out of 10 raised their hands in hopes of one day someone who will care and love them and have a place to call home .
I took humanitarian aid like shoes, clothes, toothpaste, tooth brushes, shampoo, soap, these are just some of the examples of which much was donated from people like you. I took games puzzles, and other fun activities which helped them to be a kid again and also broke-up the prevalent boredom. These kids don’t own or have anything except the clothes on their backs. So these items including the occasional candy was well received. I went to the market to purchase soccer balls and other outside activities for them to enjoy. Most of the time they sit and look at TV or wander around. But most of all spending time with them listening and showing that I care about them was what they needed. I would tell them I do care but there is a God who loves and cares about them more and wants to be a father to them. My focus was not to be on me but always directed towards JESUS. I will attach some pictures. I have more to share that I will post soon. I want to say again a BIG THANK YOU for your donations, financial help and prayers.
