Our journey in Ukraine has landed us at Ruslan's house for a few days. We arrived last night, had a great dinner and celebrated Ruslan's 30th Birthday!
Today we traveled once more to Ledyzhyn and were priveledged to spend more time singing and interacting with the residents there. I'm still amazed at just how many people this facility houses. I'm also amazed at the vast age range of the residents. Our hearts were heavy as we left, yet we're holding to the promise that God has them all in the palm of His hand. Please continue to lift the Ledyzhyn orphanage up in prayer...
It was also difficult saying goodbye to the precious children at the Tulchyn Orphanage...they hold such a special place in our hearts. We've seen and gotten to know many of the children at the orphanage for three years in a row - many of us have formed "bonds" with the children. Once more, our hope is in our Father, who is a Father to the fatherless...Please continue to remember the Tulchyn orphanage in your prayers...
Our times of soccer with the local kids and teens in Tulchyn was a tremendous blessing. 15-20 kids showed up daily. We were able to build relationships with them as we played lots of soccer, and also shared the Gospel with them every day. One day, a few of the boys gave us a box of chocolates as a present. On the last day, two boys gave us a DVD with pictures of old & new Tulchyn on it, along with Ukrainian folk & modern music. Please pray for these boys - that God would move powerfully in their hearts through the Gospel that has been shared. Pray that they would rise up, embrace the Gospel and grow as spiritual leaders in this town...
Here are a few more pictures for you to enjoy...
Cheryl sharing Bible stories (in Ukrainian) with children at the Tulchyn orphange:
Maria, the Tulchyn orphanage Director, presented our group with a special decorative plate with an inscription on the back of it. Pictured with Maria is our team leader, Scott:
This is a picture of old Tulchyn - it was on the DVD that was a gift from one of the soccer guys:
Keep praying!
- Luke, for all of us
The pictures are a wonderful way for us to be able to keep connected to all of you. Thank you for sharing them. Girls...Gods love shines though you which is why the children are coming up to you with arms open wide wanting a hug. Thank all of you for going and sharing Gods word and His love with these children and the people of this area. We will continue to pray for all of them.
ReplyDeleteLove Heidi, Art & Ian