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Dear Friends,
It feels almost miraculous that the camps are running this week.
Weekend bombing left Lebedyn without power, gas or water. Anticipating this, the team collected enough water for the camp, arranged outdoor cooking using bottled gas, and found practical ways to keep going. Once again, as I write, the bomb shelters have not been needed, and no drones or missiles have been in the area during the camp.
Fuel remains difficult to obtain, as petrol stations continue to be targeted. This weekend, Bohdan travelled 100 km in search of fuel. He attempted to go to Sumy, but as they approached the city, drones and missiles were falling, so they turned back because it was too dangerous.
Last week’s camp was for children aged 6–8, and Bohdan said it was the most difficult camp he has ever led. The impact of the war is clear in these young children’s behaviour: they struggle socially, find communication difficult, lack concentration and become angry easily. Because of the dangers of war, many have never attended school or nursery regularly. Parents are increasingly frustrated too; some children describe being shouted at constantly at home. Even so, parents are willing to bring their children to camp because it offers respite and they see it as a safe place.
When asked to draw or paint, around 90% of the children depicted the war ending and happy families reunited with both Mum and Dad present. Sadly, many do not understand that some fathers will not return. Their longing is simple and profound: they dream of the war ending, and they desperately want love and affection. Again and again, what they most wanted was a hug.
This week’s camp, for children aged 9–11, has been easier. Some have attended the weekly Saturday clubs, their behaviour is better, they enjoy the stories and activities, and they are more willing to help one another. What is being modelled at the weekend clubs is clearly making a difference in their lives.
People continue to come for help. One woman arrived from a village near the border that had been destroyed. She was confused and still suffering from concussion. The team gave her food and hygiene products, but the need is great and the aid store is now running low.
Bohdan also visited two people serving near the front line in Sumy. Elijah came into the church through camps and youth work and is doing well. Another soldier, who also used to attend camps but has not returned to church for some time, has been fighting since the war began. He told Bohdan that what he learnt at camp has stayed with him, and that before every mission he gathers his unit to pray. He believes this is why he is still alive. Bohdan shared communion with them both.
For many of us, it is hard to imagine what life is like in wartime, but we are increasingly seeing prayer make a real difference. Recently, the Sumy Oblast carried out a county-wide inspection of district school directors (head teachers). Under new laws, the consequences of failing appear to be severe: dismissal and, for men, being sent to the front line. In recent months, we have worked closely with schools in Gryntsevo, Mezhyrich and Lebedyn. When news of the inspections came, all three schools contacted Bohdan and asked for prayer. Remarkably, every director failed and was dismissed except those from the three schools that had asked for prayer; they remain in post.
Please continue to pray for:
Thank you for all your kind gifts and ongoing prayers they are appreciated as always.
Every blessing
Peter Martin
Founding Director of Hope Lebedyn
P.S. It costs around £35 for one child to attend a non-residential camp week. This covers two meals, drinks, snacks, and all activities. We need to send $25,000 to meet these costs, so if you can contribute in any way, we would be very grateful. This link can show you more info……Hope Lebedyn's page | Stewardship
