Don't Be Afraid. You Are Not Alone!
The war in Ukraine has touched every family in our country in some way. Towns and villages – including those where we hold children’s Bible clubs – are regular targets for missiles. The Odesa region is under constant threat of attack.
When children experience anxiety, they are often unable to express it in words so they can share their fears with others. One mission of our team is to support children through this difficult time and help them cope with the chaos all around them. We assure them there is a God who loves and protects them; they are not alone.
It used to be that the most common childhood fears were spiders, monsters, and the dark. But now sirens, loud noises, and missiles are at the top of the list.
When asked what their greatest wish is, the children in Ukraine have not expressed desire for a phone or the newest toy. They want peace. The children in our country can’t think of anything they’d rather have than ceasefire and safety.
For five weeks in August and September, we organized day camps throughout the villages in the Odesa region. Our focus was to help children deal with the traumas of war. Around 140 kids attended for the lessons and activities we prepared for this purpose.
The adventure stories we told of Petrik the Penguin and his friends addressed children’s thoughts and experiences in ways they could personally understand. Those who came learned Bible verses and were taught about our loving God. Each lesson began with a story, was reinforced with a discussion led by the teacher, and was followed by a craft and a game that helped illustrate the biblical lesson.
We hold regular Bible clubs in the villages, and the children eagerly attend.
At the beginning of each school year we make sure each child has adequate school supplies, too.
What he Children Have to Say:
"I learned that God is always with me."
As I listen to the stories in the Bible, I realize that God is always with me. – Olya, 10
When we read Psalm 91:4, I understood that there is protection under God’s wings. – Dasha, 9The story of Basil the Walrus taught me to help my friends, and Psalm 91:4 taught me that I am always under God’s protection. – Anya, 11
The characters I liked the most in the story were Sofia and Petrik because they told me that I am not alone. I can tell my loved ones what scares me and ask them for help to overcome my fears.
I also memorized a verse from Deuteronomy 31:6 that helps me understand that even when things are bad, God is near. – Xenya, 13I can be sure that God will never leave me. – Anja, 12
Thank you for coming to us and telling us about God. – Karina, 12
When I listened to the stories in the Bible, I understood that I don’t have to be afraid of God. He is always with me and He helps me. – Artyom, 12
My God is all-powerful and can do anything. – Lyuba, 11
13 year-old Polina (pictured):
“The story of Petrik the Penguin taught me that there are always people who will support and help me. I am not alone.”
Folding fabric into cuddly teddy bears
