To all our supporters,
It has been a wonderful and long week at the TB center. We are filled with the joy that has been radiating from these wonderful children as we play games, sing songs, and make crafts. They love our silly songs like Aroostasha, the Hokey Pokey, Head Shoulders Knees and Toes, and many others. But most importantly, they love showing us all they have learned including songs, crafts, and games. In the mornings we spend three hours with them, simply loving them, and then are able to take a break for lunch and a quick nap, only to return in the afternoons for another two hours of smiles, laughter and hugs.
We have been learning more Russian phrases and traditions little by little and the kids enjoy trying to communicate with us. Luckily we have been blessed with the presence of two translators who have made our instructions clear and direct. With their help, we have also been able to meet with a small group of older youth and share deeper thoughts and conversations about life’s struggles. Each day that group has opened up further and shared more of their personal struggles as we remind them that they are not alone.
Unfortunately, today is our last full day with our fantastic fellow volunteers Alex and Megan who have become two fabulous members of our team. As they venture back to their homes in California, we lift them up in prayers for their safety and in hope we will all stay in touch. They have become two more voices of wisdom and inspiration and will be missed. However, although they are returning home, we know that we still have more time to bond and learn with these beloved children at the TB center, and that we need to focus on the youth with our thoughts and hearts.
We ask for prayers that our team stays strong and energized, and that all sicknesses (and stomachaches from too much food) will cease. And, Rachel and Brittany are doing great! Thank you so much for all your prayers and thoughts as we love on these kids! And please continue your comments, for they are such an inspiration to all of us.
With hearts full of love,
The Russian Voyagers
Hello All!
Your time has been so busy, I’m sure it seems as though it is flying by! It’s wonderful to hear about the great things you are doing. You are in my prayers daily.
Mary Ann,
I love you so much!
Mom
Glad to hear the week went well and that the translators are helping communicate God’s truths. We are all here at home enjoying a Seahawk game. Go Hawks!!
“Dear children, let us not love with words or tongue but with actions and in truth. This then is how we know that we belong to the truth, and how we set our hearts at rest in his presence whenever our hearts condemn us.” 1 John 3:18-20
We love seeing your example to us of love in action. We hope God has put your hears at rest in His presence as you serve.
Love mom and dad from sunny Colorado.
Mary Ann,
These have been the best six months I could ever imagine. I can’t even tell you how happy you make me. Whenever I hear from you, whether by e-mail or my daily letters, I smile for at least 30 minutes. So, thanks a LOT for making me look like a fool on a regular basis. I bet people see me grinning and think, “who died and made that guy king?”
You’re my princess.
Do king’s and princesses hang out? I certainly hope so.
I love you.
~Joshie
We love to see the great work you are doing. We think of you often. Ben has gone to school and starts his first day tomorrow. Mom and I spent the weekend in Cuchara.
We miss you.
Love, Mom and Dad……………and Indy.
Wonderful news that you all are healthy. Keep it that way, please, for the final part of your mission!
I absolutely love seeing the pictures of you guys interacting with the kids; enjoying them and giving joy back to them.
Good luck, good weather, and good health to all of you for the rest of your time in Russia. Everyone is anxious to have you all back home!
You are all in our thoughts and prayers. What a blessing to be able to share Jesus with these children. We pray that they will see Him through you.
Hi Emily and team! What a great work you are doing. This will be live changing for both those kids and each of you.
I am so proud of all of you. Praying for you! Love mom
I read this verse and thought of you guys and how hard the last week is in so many ways. I Thes. 3:12 “May the Lord make your love increase and overflow for EACH OTHER and for everyone else, just as ours does for you.” I love you and am praying for all of you.
Hi Mary Ann and Team,
Have a great day!
Love, Mom