Elena Y.
Orphans Reborn in Krasnoyarsk, Russia

It is always a pleasure to share the joyful, happy moments that we regularly experience in our joint ministry with you. And even when we write about sad situations from the lives of these orphan children, we always have hope in the Lord who is able to change their difficult lives. 

Two years ago, we decided to start a new project that we call “On the Way to Success.” It is a special work project, which this year had 42 people involved—27 of them were orphans. The first time we held the camp, we did not expect that the young people would be involved personally in the work projects, but rather that they would just enjoy the camp and learn of potential jobs they could have in the future. But this time they ended up working along with us and made real quality work! The Lord gave us 11 men who were not only professional workers, but also mentors and friends—even potential fathers for some children. The children noticed that they were able to do a lot with their own hands, and you could see their growing passion for what they were doing. 

One boy named Vitya had come to the orphanage only recently. He had been abandoned by his relatives and had run away from his foster family. He was really in need of some love, as we could see right away. From the first day, he showed himself to be a good worker, doing everything with great eagerness and always with a smile. He worked with one of our younger brothers named Alexei, and Vitya always stayed close to him. Alexei supported Vitya, counseling him, and was just simply there for him. On the last night of the camp, something changed in Vitya’s face. As we sang around the campfire, I noticed that Vitya wasn’t there. I went to look for him and finally found him sitting inside with a pen and piece of paper. He had been weeping. I just said that we had missed him, and he went back with me. The next day we went for a hike, and Vitya took the pen and paper along. During the Sunday service, we finally understood what he had been writing. Vitya had some problems with his speech, but his desire to express his gratitude was far stronger. He spoke so kindly and honestly with his paper in his hands, never forgetting anyone who had shown him kindness, including me. After a brief pause, Vitya looked at Alexei and said, “Alexei, next to you I feel that I am needed. I would really like to stay with you!” 

Vitya only began to attend our Bible lessons when he experienced those five days of work and genuine friendship. I am sure that the children feel our love, and see the care of God in our attitude toward them. Thank you, beloved church! Together with you, we serve the orphans directly while you are doing an invisible, but very powerful part. I do not know your names or faces, but I know for sure we are one team with you, we are one family. May God bless you, and praise Him for this ministry!