Sunday, August 19, 2012

Saturday Report by Betty

This is a national holiday for Ukraine: The Transformation (in America we would say Transfiguration).  Plans had been made on Friday as to how we would celebrate.



We rose early- about 7:00 a.m. for a wonderful breakfast with Maria, our hostess.  On our way to the house church, Maria took us to her school for a tour.  She is so proud as principal to show off her newly painted school.  For us, it was a step back in time - no computers, labs, etc.  This was a just a reminder of how spoiled and privileged we Americans are.  Children here are required to attend school for nine grades, then they may go on to college or work.  If neither of these are in place, they are required to go for eleven grades.

For the program today there was lots of music with the House of the Gospel singing in Ukrainian and Steve leading his "silly song", which the children and adults really liked.  Ura, a Ukrainian lay-minister spoke and then Brother Rusty spoke on the Transfiguration.  Polina wanted Talia to witness to the children with her testimony, which she did with great ease.  She told them how she and her Dad prayed on the way to school each day in his "old red truck" and what Christ means in her life.

It is always so bitter-sweet on the last day in Ozero.  However, we enjoyed our time to the fullest.  We gave the children their Upward sports bags that Rusty had donated.  We donated a year's supply of toothbrushes, toothpaste, glasses and medicines to be used as needed.  We shared cookies and hugs, took lots of pictures and prayed much!

It was time to say "good-byes", pack our bags and head back to Rivne.  Looking forward to Church in Rivne tomorrow at House of the Gospel where Brother Steve will be preaching in two services.  Our young pastors (Rusty and Steve) have been such a blessing to everyone and very well received.  We ask that you pray that God be glorified and use our remaining efforts in Ukraine to further His kingdom.

~Betty

No comments:

Post a Comment