First Weekend in Ukraine

Saturday flew by and now it is Sunday, the Ukranian Easter Holiday. Darlene and I taught a basic hand sewing class to the seven girls who are part of the Hope Center's Vocational Outreach for orphans. These are young women from poor circumstances, formerly from orphanages. A statistic mentioned in church this morning was that a shocking 60% of girls who had been raised in orphanages became prostitutes and 70% of the young men became criminals. The young women in the sewing class are happy, friendly, and eager to learn. They have been changed by their time at Hope Center. It was a joy to see how open they were to learning how to sew a simple pillow case. We will be showing them how to use the sewing machine next class. They would like an art class also. The men worked very hard along side of the IVA students and accomplished more than they thought they would. The boys are hard workers with a good attitude. The forming up and welding and prep work went well. On Saturday we took some supplies and a story book about the real meaning of Easter to a small group of children in one of the local orphanages. They are quick to learn and adept with their hands in making a beaded cross. On Saturday afternoon, Rich was asked to speak at the graduation for the high school students who attended a series of classes at Hope Center which focused on economics, English language, computer skills and spiritual development. God gave him the right words to say on short notice! Darlene and I were amazed at the quality and aptitude of these students. We asked them about their families and their dreams for the future.

Saturday evening was really a fun time with some of the IVA young men playing Phase 10. We all laughed as the language barrier became a non-factor in communication. Bob and Mickey arrived here at 10:30 pm after a 10.5 hour drive from central Ukraine. We are so glad they are joining us as part of the work team. Luda, one of the Cooks outdid herself as she served colored eggs and Ukranian sweet bread, crepes and sausage rolls for Easter breakfast.

We attended a large local church service in an auditorium in downtown Kerch. The portion of the Mel Gibson's movie "The Passion of Christ" depicting the crucifixion was shown during the service while we received and shared communion as a Church----powerful and moved many to tears. Lunch was pizza and salad in a downtown restaurant. Sunday is a great day for a nap (Carol, Mickey, Bob and Tom) while some chose to hang out in the coffee room. Darlene led the devotions today on trusting God. The rain cleared late afternoon. We are hoping to keep moving on the cement projects on Monday, weather permitting. Please continue to pray that we can be encouraging to all we serve. Pray for health, that we have good immune systems to fight off infection. We are all sleeping well and certainly can't complain that we are not getting enough food! We are served family style and there is plenty for all.