Belarus Mission Day 11

Belarus Mission

Day 11

By Peter Ruck

This was a day I was really looking forward to. Yulia and Yauheni have built a strong relationship with an orphanage outside the city. We set off, collecting Olga, my interpreter,   Yauheni Jnr. and Timothy. It was more than a four hour’s drive before we arrived at the orphanage. As we looked up at the building, we saw little faces peering and hands waving from an upstairs window. We drove round to the rear of the building where the Director greeted us warmly. He was really pleased to see Yulia and Yauheni. I was introduced to him; he quickly introduced a young 18 year old lad called Yuri. The director proudly pointing to a windmill and a cart that he had made. We could see why the Director had highlighted them to us – they were amazingly crafted.

The Director gave us a guided tour before we met the children who were so excited to see us. I handed around chocolates, a real treat for them. We were then given lunch where the Director expressed how grateful he was for the support to buy basic items for the children, like blankets. He said that he recognised a difference these visit had made to the children.

When the time had come for us to go to the theme park, the children couldn’t wait to get on the bus. We immediately ordered ice cream for them upon arrival, while Yauheni went off to buy vouchers for the rides. They were so excited running between each ride. I was busy taking photos and movies of them enjoying themselves.

Soon they were taking pictures themselves with great delight, lining up to see themselves on the movies. Can you imagine that this was the first time for them taking pictures with a camera? My mobile phone rang and I was immediately surrounded as they watched me speaking so intrigued. Uri, who was often my shadow, asked to see my mobile phone. I put Gospel music on, starting with “The Mandate” and Uri was instantly hooked. He loved it and walked around with it to his ear with other boys and girls following after him. Olga explained behind orphanage walls, they have never seen modern gadgets such as mobile phones or cameras!

What a blessing it was to be part of this team treating them – the walls certainly came down for a day! The children could see the love in our hearts for them, the only Jesus some will never see, and even the most reserved children were responding. I shared the love of God with them as a group whilst they ate ice cream. Yauheni told me that several children have had encounters with God since the work started. The response of someone showing loving kindness is a strong witness to these children. I could see their need from the moment we arrived with them looking and waiting by the window. I would love to organise sponsorships for visiting theme parks with the children.