Wednesday, July 19

We got up early this morning to travel back to Bila Tserkva in order to help with a picnic being hosted by a ministry called "God's Hidden Treasures." This organization is designed to minister to handicapped people in Ukraine. In ten years, over 1500 wheelchairs have been distributed to people in need. The picnic is a sort of annual reunion for families who have received help from the organization, with people traveling long distances in some cases. This is a Christian organization, operated by Ukrainians, with the exception of Nita, an American who is the founder and director. There was a very good turnout, and the program was inspirational and enjoyable. It is clear that Nita was called to this ministry, and has responded faithfully to that calling.

We arrived at the park early to help set up, but all of the preliminary work had been completed before we arrived (before the time we were asked to show up)! So we visited with those who had been invited to the picnic- with Scott's Russian skills getting a workout (especially as many there spoke Ukrainian). Thankfully, there were many members of the church present who were able to help translate for us. We were able to help with the serving of the food, collecting of trash, etc. We were particularly glad to meet Vita, an 11 year old girl who had traveled very far to attend, with her mother and sister. She is wheelchair-bound, and appears to suffer from CP. After talking for a while, she mustered the courage to ask Scott to take her picture, and to promise to send it to them.

A delicious meal was served, there was an entertaining program of singing and dancing, and throughout the day the attendees were treated with dignity and respect. It really was a blessing to be a part of this event. We hope to have a meeting with Nita, the director of this program when we return to Bila Tserkva in a couple of weeks - as she has done a great job of making this ministry a local outreach, staffed by Ukrainians.

We were also glad to have some more time with people from the church. We were able to take a walk around the park with a small group ... and it was beautiful. It really was a "get-away" from the city.

In all a great way to spend the day.

Thanks for reading,
The Broadways