Dear family and friends,
We met the kids! What a joy and an experience!
Quinn, Danny, Kierney, Lina, Katya:
The younger children surprised us; they abound in energy, and their moods change upon a whim. They are far less trusting, as they did not warm up to us nearly as quickly as we thought they would. Our crafts and games were fun to some, but others were unsure. The good news is that each child found his or her place in one of the choices we planned. Two of these little guys have been in the center for over two years: one came from a band of gypsies, and the other has seemingly no background, at least not one to be found. We pray the Lord will help us give them grace upon grace, as they trust that we do care for them; however, they clearly know our time here is temporary, so we understand the burden they must carry in sharing their little hearts. Two of the boys are only four!
Helle, Isabelle, Anna, Amy, and Jazmine:
The teen girls are so sweet; we have been surprised at their willingness to befriend us. They are open to all our plans, and they enjoyed the collages and bracelet making. They refused to keep the collages they made; they wanted us to keep them, so we would not forget them. Ours hearts melted; we were speechless. They have so little; yet, they were so giving to us. We left at lunch time today because they had an excursion planned, but our girls did not want to go on the outing; they wanted us to stay with them. We struggle in knowing what they have been through, but we are so excited that we have been given this opportunity to spend this time with them.
Randall, Christian, Isaiah, Aaron, Karleigh, Joclyn, and Matthew:
The teen boys were a bit skeptical when we brought out the thread and began to make friendship bracelets, but once our guys showed a keen interest, they joined in and made some pretty ‘sick’ (cool) bracelets. Mr. Van Gorkom’s idea of making wallets out of duct tape was a hit; they all participated in that idea. These gentlemen are a quiet bunch; we are humbled in our wonder at the harsh lives they have led, especially knowing they are the same age as we are. Physical sports provided a strong connection for us; we played dodge ball and monkey, and we all were competitive. We laughed, and we enjoyed our exercise.
We also toured the Spilled Blood Cathedral; the inside is designed with every major Bible story one can imagine created with small mosaic tiles. The detail is incredible, and the walls continue to extraordinary ceilings, stories high, every square inch filled with color, delicate intricacies, and marble. We could have walked through that building for hours and still missed a number of awe-inspiring depictions. Tatiana is well-versed in the plethora of historical places to show us; she knows her Russian history, and we are privileged to be learning so much. The weather was a bit warmer today; this evening however the snow fell, and the view was like Christmas outside our windows.
We love you; we miss you. We anticipate with great excitement the work the Lord has for us tomorrow. We covet your prayers, and we appreciate your notes so much!
Below are some messages from the team members! 🙂
Kathie Warren: Annie and Marlie, how are the kids?
Isabelle: Patricia and Skip…your prayers are much needed and welcomed. I love you sooo very much (mom and I love love love the outside news from real world…very helpful). Love much izzy bell and Kris ❤
Anna: I love you mommy and daddy! David I hope you’re doing more than playing xbox. Love, Anna B.
Pam: Hi Phil. Having a great time. The kids are precious and so special to be with them. All the King’s kids are also a joy to be with. Continue to say prayers for us that we can touch the lives of these children. I love you. –Pam
Karleigh: Hi Mom and Dad, I miss you and love you and can’t wait to be home. Tell Nick I say hi toooo! Please bring mine and Helle’s phones into the airport like inside right for when we get off the plane…we can’t wait! Thanks J Looking forward to being home! Love you! Love, Karleigh.
Joclyn: Hey Mom and Dad! Love you and miss you and Mo and Jay. Having so much fun here! See you in a couple days. Love, Joclyn
Helle: Gunnar, Heidi, Vehrs, Smarts, Grandma Johnson and Gunny: All you Hawaii people, I hope you are burnt to a crisp because it has snowed every day since we have arrived! Grandma, I’m really looking forward to that home cooked meal J And Gunnar, I hope you’re studying hard! Love you all!
Amy: Joe and Lisl (and anyone else who is reading this): St. Petersburg is a lovely city and I have loved getting to tour it. Also, after meeting our girls today, I can say that they are truly amazing and I can’t wait to get to know them better. Mom, your prayer sheet is a God send, sent straight for Heaven. I love you all and I know Danny does too (even though he’s sleeping now, like I probably should be. J) Love, Amy (and in spirit, Danny)
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