Catching Up (Finally!)

Well, we finally connected to the internet again back in Kiev. We're sorry for the delay of updates due to lack of internet access.

We are still alive and well! Half of our team is staying in Ternobil with Vitali (a pastor there) and his family. The rest of us are back in Kiev awaiting the arrival of the medical team from Pennsylvania.

Highlights from the last week until now...

Sunday (June 6th) our team was split up among 3 churches: Sloboda, Fastiv, and Belagerodka. Sunday night we attended the service at Pukhova, and ministered in song and testimonies.

Monday (the 7th), the team went to Desna to pass out ice cream, balloons, and invitations for Tuesday's "Summer Bible Camp". It started with only a few children, but by the end of the evening they were bringing friends and siblings to see the Americans and get the treats.

Tuesday (the 8th) we worked with a group of believers in Desna with the Bible camp. We had a good number of kids come out, and it was a success!

Wednesday (the 9th) we drove for about 6 hours up to Luts'k for another Bible camp at the Tabitha Orphanage (housed at the Church of the Resurrection). As soon as we arrived, we jumped right in to games and crafts with the children. Though the day was hot, and we were tired from the drive, we all still had a blast! For housing Wednesday (and Thursday) evening we were all divided up among families from the church. It was a great experience to be included into the lives and culture of the people. Definitely a stretching experience for all of us!

Thursday (the 10th) was our second day (and first "full" day) at the Luts'k camp. The kids enjoyed the activities of the day. This day was hotter than Wednesday, but still a lot of fun, and successful. At the end of the day, we gave blankets and candy to all of the children - they were very grateful for these gifts! We also had the opportunity to attend and participate in a service at the church Thursday evening. It was a huge blessing to us to see the kindness and generosity of the believers.

Friday (the 11th) we made our way to Ternopil, met Vitali and his family, were fed a delicious lunch, and those of us helping the medical team said farewell to the others and headed back to Kiev.

We are ready for a restful day of sleeping in tomorrow, and touring the city of Kiev once again. Hoping to post more pictures VERY SOON!

Thank you for keeping us in your prayers!
Team Ukraine