We’ve had a busy couple of days.
Tuesday, we did a bit of sightseeing around this beautiful city. We went to Spilled Blood Cathedral, with its gorgeous mosaics, and Kazansky’s Cathedral, down the street. Our plan was to include the Hermitage, but due to the lengthy line, we chose to go to St. Isaac’s Cathedral instead, choosing to do the museum Sunday. It was incredible. The weather has been warm and clear, so we were able to go all the way up to the top and get some great shots of the city.
After our two necessary days off, we were itching to get back to the kids; we missed them!
But our day was short because we had one last bit of St. Petersburg culture to experience; we went to see Swan Lake. We really had a great time at the ballet and bonding as a team.
Today was our first full day back with the kids and it was wonderful. We had many new experiences with them. Tully and Jason had a breakthrough in talking with a couple of the guys about faith, baptism and following Jesus.
The girls and the smaller kids found solace under the shade of trees at the near-by park where they played for hours.
The kids learned about the parable of the lost sheep yesterday, and the story of the poor woman who gave all she had to the temple. The kids were told that they have someone who loves them and that they have something to offer others.
We’re starting to come to the realization that we only have days left with these wonderful children and are starting to mourn that loss. 
Their laughter and joy have been such a blessing to us as we strive to show them Christ’s love.
The tragedies in some of these children’s lives have impacted us, but we know that Jesus loves each of them.
It is our continued prayer that we will have more opportunities to share with them that love.
Jason Groenink and the team
God’s love shines through in all of your postings and photos. Thanks for sharing and know that we care for all of you. Hi Serena and Megan.
Cherish these last few days with the children. Praying for all of you as you finish strong!