Youth Camp in Ukraine: Blessing and Joy Regardless of the Circumstances
The war situation in Ukraine became even more difficult this summer, resulting in an increase of air attacks in the Odesa region. Organizing the youth camp and the children’s excursion was challenging. For safety reasons, the field trip to Odesa had to be cancelled, but camp was held at the end of July in a new location near the Moldovan border.
“The youth camp was very successful and blessed!” proclaimed Tanya Galichenko, leader of our work in Ukraine (pictured on the far right below). “There was a special atmosphere at the camp. God was at work in the hearts of the young people and strengthened their faith. They were joyful, and we have never before received so much positive feedback from parents after a camp. The Lord also protected everyone on the journeys to the camp center and back home.”
Andrey’s story is an encouraging example of the importance of these camps and of God’s work in young hearts.
The Change in Andrey was Visible Immediately!
Andrey’s eyes were angry, and his resistance was unmistakable. He had come to camp, but he did not have the joy and enthusiasm we would normally expect from an 11 year-old.
Andrey’s parents are divorced. He and his two siblings live with their mother and stepfather. The stepfather is rarely home as he is serving on the front lines. The war and the constant fear it invokes have been deeply traumatic for the family.
During camp week the children were able to step away from the heaviness of everyday life. Camp days are filled with fun and activities. All campers read and study the Bible together and have time for personal prayer and conversation.
The theme of the third day was “God Is Near.” That evening Andrey came to the leaders and said he was not feeling well. Some of his discomfort came from withdrawal symtoms; he already smoked and drank alcohol. But his distress was emotional as well. Andrey had begun to understand that life could be different. He wanted the kind of life he had heard about at camp: a life close to God.
We prayed together, and Andrey opened his heart to Jesus. The effect became visible immediately. His behavior changed, but so did his eyes and attitude. The Holy Spirit had begun His work in this boy!
We will continue to stay in contact with Andrey as we regularly visit his home village. We are grateful to God for this camp, which changed the direction of Andrey’s life and the lives of many other children!
