Thorny and wonderful path...

 It is sometimes difficult to understand why God allows trials and hardship. Awful pain, many tears, helplessness, confusion, many questions "Why?"... But no matter how hard the Lord is always there! He knows the pain of our heart. He never leaves, but supports and shows His hand! It is important to learn to see these blessings in difficult times and thank the Lord. But it could have been worse! The three youths Shadrach, Meshach and Abdenago were on Furnace of fire. But the fourth was with them - the Lord! The Lord is always there in fiery trials! 

  Two and a half years ago, little Elijah fell ill with Rassmussen's encephalitis. Elijah spent almost a year in the hospital. Every day he got worse and the doctors gave disappointing forecasts. We were told  it was necessary to operate on the baby and remove part of the brain to save life. It was unbearably painful and terrible! We found the only neurosurgeon in Ukraine who performs such surgeries. We raised the necessary funds. But something constantly prevented the surgery! Elijah's frequent illnesses, measles in the hospital, doctor's trips abroad and other factors. All we could do was entrust the Lord with the life of a baby. We could not do anything and felt helpless ... Time passed ... Elijah was melting before our eyes and slowly leaving ... It was scary and terribly painful. It is scary that the kid was innocent of anything and so much pain from the loss ... We will never forget the time and words when all the hospital staff told him only a few days left to live ... We counted the hours of his living to the Lord ... Elijah was the first baby in our region with such a diagnosis. Doctors were scared, some nurses were afraid to help seeing how the baby was suffering. They did everything they could ... We prepared for the worst. But Elijah continued to live! 

   Last summer the BOM team was preparing for a trip to the United States, to give a report and meet with sponsors and dear friends. Everything was going so great and smooth! Many were waiting for us! We saw many blessings and were confident that this was the will of God! Our joy and delight knew no bounds! It remains only to get a visa for Pastor and BOM Director Misha. And what was our surprise when he was refused a visa! God, how is that ?! You started to bless... We have not seen the slightest obstacle! And here is such a surprise! It was somehow strange ... We saw how God blessed absolutely everything! And here is a bright "No"! And you know what ?! In the midst of this incomprehensible situation, God gave us peace in our hearts! 

Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God.And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.(Phil.4^6-7)

We could not understand and only trusted Christ. So, God had a different plan. 

  We understood when 3 weeks later, our Brother in Christ was admitted to the hospital due to poor health and was preparing for a surgery. A doctor said that he did not give a chance for improvement and even for a life! Exactly one month later, we learned and understand what relatives and friends feel when they hear the word "Cancer"... To be continued...

How you can touch the heart of an orphan

  I am soooo excited and it seems that my heart will now jump out of happiness and that joy that overwhelms me!!!

  Now weekends, holidays in schools are coming to an end in Ukraine. Everyone is trying to go out of town somewhere and rest, spend time with family or close friends. So, why don`t spend time with those who don`t have family or have trouble parents???

 "Then said he also to him that bade him, When thou makest a dinner or a supper, call not thy friends, nor thy brethren, neither thy kinsmen, nor thy rich neighbours; lest they also bid thee again, and a recompence be made thee. 
 But when thou makest a feast, call the poor, the maimed, the lame, the blind: 
 And thou shalt be blessed; for they cannot recompense thee: for thou shalt be recompensed at the resurrection of the just." KJV (Luke 14:12-14)

It is a great opportunity to gather orphaned children and spend time together as a big and loving family and touch their precious souls!!!

 Teenagers often suffer and do not know what to do on weekends or holidays and this can lead to sin or undesirable consequences. Unfortunately, graduates of orphanages do not know how to manage their time and often roam the streets without knowing what to do. It’s very difficult to find a job for a 17 year old.

 Imagine. You are alone, abandoned by your parents, spent your childhood in 4 walls of an orphanage without ever leaving the institution and not seeing anything. With pain in the heart, experiencing bitterness, tears, disappointment, without a future and hope. And now you have holidays. You don`t know what to do, where to go because no funds. It`s barelly enough for food. :( They suffer emotionally a lot from this! Sometimes this leads to depression and even suicide...

 A week ago, 17 souls together with the BOM team were able to spend time almost a week! All 5 days we lived together, read the Gospel, sang, prayed. Also we celebrated the birthday of 2 beautiful young ladies, played board games, skated, ate pizza(they LOVE pizza :))) and ate at McDonalds, walked in the beautiful park and walked the streets of the city seeing amazing lights, fed cute squirrels and little birds, saw the most beautiful and breathtaking sunset, had fun and just had a great time! Most importantly, we were able to share the love of Christ showing the care and attention. ♥ It was AMAZING time!!! Kids were thrilled! You would see their eyes! ;)

These words warm my heart ♥
 "I really loved these 5 days that we spent together! They were incredible! Park, cars, skates. Everything was great and a lot of fun! The most important thing is that we were together and I hope that this will continue in the future. Thank you for this opportunity!" Sveta S.

"It was the best start to this year! These days were filled with positive and great joy. We were finally able to come and meet with you. I hope that we can meet more often. And as always, these are the best days when we meet together!" Maxim S.

 Naday, part of our team. She is not only a great Bible teacher and mentor for young people, but also a great cook! Twice a day, she cooked for such a huge crowd! It were mountains of food! :) Undoubtedly, the children were delighted, especially those who often go hungry as they receive a scholarship of 500 UAH($22.00) per month.

And here is a short video of our incredible days!

   

  Thank you VERY MUCH to those who made this possible! Thank you for touching the precious souls of these orphans! Thank you for touching the hearts! You give these sweet children the opportunity to feel special, loved and amazing! That they are not alone and many people around the world love and care for them! Thank you for your incredible love and generosity! You are amazing! Thank you so much for giving the opportunity to share the love of Christ! Thank you so much to making these days so VERY special!!!

If this is your first time reading our blog and you would like to touch the heart of an orphan, you can become part of his/her life sending your gift of love HERE. Or if you are a prayer warrior and would like to become a part of our spiritual battle for the salvation of souls, you can send us an email to find out prayer requests. May God bless you!!!

Unconditional love

  "Why are you doing this? Why? I can not understand..." I heard a trembling voice on the other side of the phone. I could see tears, disappointment, pain, betrayal, bewilderment and misunderstanding. Misunderstanding of how strangers who barely knew me want to help and get me out of the pit of loneliness, pain and tears.

  Dear Friends, God is doing something amazing and beautiful!!! Almost 2 months ago I was in fasting and prayer for my lovely girls. On the same day in the evening I received a call from the Social Service for children's rights with an invitation to the office. Honestly, I was scared. I understood that something had to happen in the life of two girls. But what, Lord? It was scary. It is terrible to hear a decision that could cripple the lives of girls even more. The girls had no where to go! If the eldest could settle in a student dormitory since she will be soon 18 years old. Although we did not like this decision very much, to be honest. Because there are children without control and a lot of terrible things are happening. We felt that was not right desidion. But young 16-year-old girl simply did not have where to go! The house in the village was destroyed, her grandmother called me and asked me to take care of her granddaughter because she was not able to. The girls were scared and confused. They begged me not to leave them. Our hearts were broken. I cried a lot and prayed. The situation was very difficult. I just could not leave them on the street! I was ready to fight for the girls to the end! I was ready for the worst ... If Social Services forbids me to take care of the girls so that they continue to live with me. I was ready to defend their rights!!! I was determined to defend them decisively and fight for them to the end, whatever it would cost me!!!

Do you remember when Jesus Christ appeared to the disciples and they were afraid ?! 

 And as they thus spake, Jesus himself stood in the midst of them, and saith unto them, Peace be unto you.
But they were terrified and affrighted, and supposed that they had seen a spirit.
And he said unto them, Why are ye troubled? and why do thoughts arise in your hearts?
Behold my hands and my feet, that it is I myself: handle me, and see; for a spirit hath not flesh and bones, as ye see me have. (Luke 24:36-39)KJV

 

It happened the same with us! Jesus Christ Himself appeared and it was God's plan to save and reunite this sweet family!Wow!
When we were at a special meeting where the commission met and decided the fate of the children. As I told before Children's Affairs Service wanted to deprive of parental rights their mother and appoint me the guardian. I saw and felt that this is NOT what the Lord wants from me...

When we saw everything happening at the meeting, we realized that God has a different plan. We did not know what would come of it! But having faith and desire, we decided to help the family reunite!

The Social Service for Children's Rights gave the mother 2 weeks to find housing and work. We took full responsibility in the search for housing and everything else. It was a step of faith and hope on both sides.

The next day I received a call. "Why are you doing this? Why? I can not understand...How can you pay housing barely knowing me? I have only 50 grivnas($2.00) in my pocket. I don’t have food, I can’t pay for accommodation if you find. I will be ashamed to live in the same city with you because of my lifestyle and so on..."

It was difficult for a woman to trust other people. Our hearts were broken. The woman was undoubtedly confused and scared to move to another city. I promissed to be able to help walk her through this. I promissed to support her and to be near. Humans may let down, but He never will! We prayed and prayed for God`s miracle for this sweet family.

   The woman has never experienced unconditional love from anyone before...She was going to experiencing the goodness of God through His children for the first time in her life. It's not 'natural' for people to be so giving and loving to people they barely know, but that's what we as Christians are supposed to do. Don`t we? ;)

We needed it urgently and we were looking for any housing just to save the family! Very soon we found a dorm room! Then the woman found a job. The girls moved and started a new life. Honestly, it was emotionally difficult for us all. For a year and a half of life you quickly get used to a person. Girls took a special place in my heart and it was hard for me to let them go. I cried and begged the Lord to help me to let the girls go out of my heart to their mother. They should be with their loving mom. We are very attached to each other. There has been a lot of hurt in that family. Those girl's hearts have to heal.

Thanks to your willing hearts, care and love we managed to raise the necessary amount and buy the most necessary things and furniture so that the family could live!

Couch before

and after

Kitchen cabinet before

and after

 This is not the end of this beautiful story. :) The girls have a brother who had no where to come for the weekend or vacation to visit his family. He is also a former graduate of the orphanage but lives on his own.  Today he having holidays spending them with his beautiful family for several weeks now. In addition to the girls with his mother, he also attends our church where they hear the word of God! We all became wonderful friends! A young woman longs to hear the Word of God! We see the Lord touching her heart! She longs for fellowship with us and we have a great time together! The girls are very happy that their whole family is together! They have moved physically but not emotionally. The young ladies know that we walk along side all of them and make sure they are doing well and it gives them added reassurance.We see each other every day. Young ladies come to learn lessons when they don’t have internet, use a computer, use a washine machine, take a shower (there are no conditions in the dorm) or just chat. 

I admire the mercy and grace of God! How great and amazing is our Lord God! How marvellous and wonderful! My heart rejoices and sings! I am in awe of the miracles and actions of God!!! I cry with happiness ... and praise God for His mighty and greatness!!! 

Thank you all VERY MUCH for your participation in this beautiful story! Thank you for your fervent prayers and donations! Thank you for being there. Thank you for being part of this wonderful family reunion and part of the unconditional love for these beautiful souls!!! ♥♥♥ Please, remember Fodor family in your prayers. Pray for their salvation, for the healing of their precious hearts.

Share the amazing story of God`s grace and His unconditional love! ;)

ONLY 2 weeks to REUNITE the FAMILY!!!

   OK. Our ministry is gaining a slightly different turn...

   Dear friends we only have 2 weeks to save the family !!! Yesterday, the Children's Affairs Service called the mother of two of our sweet girls to deprive of parental rights, and appoint me the guardian of the girls as they live with us! Sveta, 16 and Luba, 17. It was a real war! The poor mother cried inconsolably... It was all painful and scary to watch. It is terrible how the world is cruel and how Satan wants to break up the family and sow bitterness, tears, pain, disappointment and grief. We began to stand up for the poor mother and asked the Social Service to give her a chance to start a new life. She is addicted to alcohol but cannot stop because of her surroundings. Due to alcohol addiction, she is not able to fulfill parental duties and obligations. She has no home. She lives anywhere.She is homeless... Therefore, the girls not only have nowhere to come home for the holidays.They have nowhere to go at all!!! Therefore, they spent all their childhood in the Children`s Home and then in a orphanage... There was a time when a young woman did not abuse alcohol and worked since she lived somewhere. So, we have a hope! Her friends and surroundings have a huge impact on her. The Children's Affairs Service gave 2 weeks for the mother to find housing and work. If in 2 weeks she does not solve this issue, she will be deprived of parental rights!!! This is terrible! But today we have a chance to save this precious family! Let the sweet girls live with their beloved mother! 

From the left to the right Alla, Natasha, Masha, Sveta and Lyuba

  We immediately began to look for a housing at our city so that she immediately moved! We have VERY little time!She does not work, so she is starving. :( She has absolutely no livelihood! While a woman finds work, she will need funds and her children for food, at least for a month. Also help pay for housing for several months until everything is settled down.

  Can you imagine what happiness it is when the whole family is together, mom and her precious children! Indeed, the very first family was created by our Creator in the Garden of Eden. What a relief for all of them not to worry about each other. So that the girls do not worry about what happened to their mother, is she still alive? What a joy when the whole family will come to the meeting of our church and hear the Word of God! Not only girls but their mother can hear the Word of Salvation, about hope, forgiveness, Christ love, hope and much more! Tears of happiness are pouring down my cheeks when I think about what an incredible happiness it is to see all of them together joyful and happy !!! What a blessing it is when their mother sees the love of Christ and the care of their family through Christians! The woman ceased to feel like a mother and a woman. She feels exhausted and completely lonely... Through this care, we can become her friends and the only salvation!

We need to raise $900. Each donation can be a salvation for these girls to stay with their mother forever! Is it not for this that God called us to sow goodness, hope and love? Isn't that what the Lord calls us to do, to give people a chance and hope while they are alive? Yesterday, the girls were upset and cried. If we do not help, the family will be destroyed and one of the girls will go to the orphanage again! Can you imagine their tears of happiness when the family reunited???Satan destroys families but God creates! Will you become a part of the reuniting of this sweet family, please?

We believe with all hearts God is going to create something beautiful and amazing!!! ♥♥♥

  If the Lord prompts your heart to bless the family Fodor  you can send your gift of love to Ting Ministries. May God bless you!!!💖
1. Donate online through:PayPal tingministries@comcast.net
2.Or send a check:
Stephanie and Brian Carpenter
Ting Ministries
29 East Poplar Street
Lebanon Pa 17042
USA
All donations tax deductible and 100% goes to BOM! THANK YOU so much!!!

Mom of 6 teenagers!

If someone told me a few years ago that you would be the mother of six teenagers. And they all will live in your small and cramped apartment. I would say that this is not for me. "No! No! What are you! Never, ever in my life!!!" And I would laugh out loud! :)))

Welcome three more teens to our family! Two beautiful young ladies and a teenager boy.

Sveta, 15 and Natasha,15

Vova, 14

   Yes, it is noisy, and we have a lot of inconveniences. One bathroom, a very small kitchen, very crowded where everyone pushes each other, the girls sleep in small beds in three and much more. But the children are happy!  Sveta is in the 10th grade of a regular/hight school, Vova is in the 9th grade, and Natasha is studying as a hairdresser. 

  The life is crazy here! We are super busy with kids!Some children require a lot of attention!!! The last few months I sleep for 5-6 hours. Iam so happy when I can sleep 7 hours! :))) I am learning to be more organized to take care of children and to continue serving in orphanages. Learning. A lot of learning...Now I understand more large families! Lol

  We see how children change and learn something new. We learn together :) They learn to take care of their things, use household appliances, keep order in the house, be responsible and much more.

Sveta and Natasha learn how to buy and save money

Well, and most importantly, learn to forgive, enjoy and be thankful for small things, help each other, enjoy life and just love.

   Every Sunday our family goes to church where children can hear the Gospel and be in fellowship with Christians.

  

    Our main goal through life in the family is not only to teach the main life skills but to show the care and love of Christ. So that one day the Lord would become their Heavenly Father and Comforter.

Girls do their school homework

Precious girl rejoices of the fountain

  There are so many different difficulties besides teenage behavior problems... Difficulties with the government, documents, a lot of confusion and different nuances. I don’t know how long these children will be able to live with us. But every day for me is another opportunity to show the love of Christ. Every day is another opportunity to comfort, encourage, hug, teach something new, share the Word of God and just love. It`s a great joy and privilege! ♥♥♥

  We also have financial difficulties. Every day we need to give children funds for bus and meals at the school. Often in the school they need to buy notebooks, books and various things. Only $40.00 a month is needed for an one kid for bus ticket and meal at school.All children have digestive problems, with teeth, etc. They often complain of abdominal pain, often get sick. Some eat a lot because they were hungry at their homes and orphanages. We need to help children become healthy so that they can study well and enjoy life. We spend a lot of finances on food and hygiene products, in addition to other needs. 

We need someone whose heart belongs to orphans. Someone who has burden in heart for teens. Someone who can adopt these beautiful children in their heart and support monthly.

These are orphans, whose parents are alive but abuse alcohol and do not fulfill their parental responsibilities. Children visit their parents from time to time. Recently, one of the girls said. When I sleep in cold and  dirty bed in the village in the house visiting my parents, I cannot wait to return here (home to us) to a clean, warm and soft bed. :)

Yes, when they return from the villages, they take a shower and wash their clothes. There is no running water, no firewood, no electricity, no livelihood. Nothing!

  If the Lord touches your heart to bless these beautiful souls bloom and become successful members of our society, you can send your gift of love through Ting Ministries. Please, consider this need prayerfully!

1. Donate online through:PayPal tingministries@comcast.net
2.Or send a check:
   Stephanie and Brian Carpenter
   Ting Ministries
   29 East Poplar Street
   Lebanon Pa 17042
   USA
All donations tax deductible and 100% goes to BOM! THANK YOU so much!!!

   

   And as always, during blogging time I reach out to all of you and ask for your prayers! Would you join me in asking our great God for prayers of strength, inspiration, and strong physical and emotional my health, God`s wisdom, and His patience, please? And for my beloved sister Oksana.Would you join us in prayer for changing hearts and minds and for the salvation these sweet teens? That God will bless and provide for all their needs. And that God bless and placed these precious souls where they are needed to be...

How good and how pleasant it is for brethren to dwell together in unity

"Behold, how good and how pleasant it is for brethren to dwell together in unity!
It is like the precious ointment upon the head, that ran down upon the beard, even Aaron's beard: that went down to the skirts of his garments;
As the dew of Hermon, and as the dew that descended upon the mountains of Zion: for there the LORD commanded the blessing, even life for evermore." 

( Psalm 133)

 What a beautiful Thanksgiving we had in church this Sunday!🍂🍁 🥰

The hall was full even many were sick and were not able to come! 

Many praises and thanks to the Lord, singings, testimonies!😇 

 In the end, we had a Love Dinner where everyone together could eat and have a wonderful fellowship. 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦👨‍👩‍👧‍👦👨‍👩‍👧‍👦

  This year is very special for all of us. A lot of things are happening in the ministry. A lot of different great trials in ministry and personal life... Only one test ended, the second began, then the third ... We all learn to live with new difficulties...
Our church is small but friendly as a big loving family. ♥ Because of his illness, the Pastor Misha could not be in the service for several weeks. I also could not be in church for several weeks. Stress and various experiences led me to gastric tuberculosis. The past two months have been especially difficult for all of us. I feel much better now. I thank and praise my Saviour! I believe that it will all be over soon. It takes only time and great patience. :) God is so good!

We began to appreciate fellowship with each other even more. It’s like a balm for the soul, you feel resurrected and renewed after 2 hours of church service and few hours fellowship with precious friends, dear brothers and sisters. 

Passing through the valley of trials, our church is like a small island of Love, where you can find peace and rest for your soul. We are especially grateful to the Lord for our large loving family! ♥♥♥

Please, continue to pray for the healing of Pastor Misha, for his needs, for the spiritual growth of the church, for replenishment with new souls and BOM staff as well.Thanks a lot to those who support our church!😍

Oh, did I tell you that we had baptism this summer? :)

Hidden from father

A week ago we were looking for a 15 year old girl. Olya graduated from boarding school this year. Her father drinks, beats mother and kids, humiliates them, abuse, threatens. He even tried to kidnepped Olya and blackmail her mother! Can you imagine what the poor girl feels?! It is impossible to describe all the horror that this poor family has experienced and endures! They hide in a wild and remote from civilization village in a very old house, where the roof leaks and mosquitoes "eat" you! We have millions of them this year! In a village where there is no school for children, no a kindergarten, where there is no work, mobile phone works with difficulty in certain places.

 The medical first-aid station is closed and it is noticeable that it has not been working for a very long time. So, if you feel bad, you have to die there...

  There are very few families. About 70% of abandoned houses. Transportation does not go there. You have to walk more than an hour to the nearest village to catch some kind of transport.

 There is no store in the village either. People in the village say that the "store" comes 2-3 times a week and brings them some food. The "store", this is vehicle what brings groceries and it stays about 30 minutes. And then goes to the next village. If you did not have time to buy bread or what you need, you will wait two more days when the vehicle comes again.

  The kids wanted ice cream. But ice cream will be in a few days, maybe... :( It is not difficult to imagine the state of perishable products, when there is no refrigerator in the car and today it is 35 degrees of heat outdoors...

  Olya is very scared, along with her mother and her smaller sister and brothers.She looks lost :( When we gave money for groceries. You should have seen how mother and children were happy! ♥ She thanked heartily and was ready to cry... After all, they had only 150 uah($6.00) for living! Their family receives child care in the amount of $150 per month. At one time they received $65 per month for 4 children.

Olga's younger brother was very pleased that he drove the car! ;0)

“Then Jesus told them this parable: ‘Suppose one of you has a hundred sheep and loses one of them. Does he not leave the ninety-nine in the open country and go after the lost sheep until he finds it? And when he finds it, he joyfully puts it on his shoulders and goes home. Then he calls his friends and neighbors together and says, “Rejoice with me; I have found my lost sheep.” I tell you that in the same way there will be more rejoicing in heaven over one sinner who repents than over ninety-nine righteous persons who do not need to repent’” (Luke 15:3-7).

The parable of the lost sheep offers an extraordinary glimpse of heavenly emotions. The shepherd calls his friends and neighbors together, saying, “Rejoice with me.” The rescue of the lost sheep was a cause for proclamation and celebration.

We traveled many hundreds of kilometers and villages to find Olya! We drove from village to another wild and lost village asking people. It was crazy! Mother hides a new place of settlement for fear that their father did not find and kill them! Olga`s mother was greatly surprised how we have found them! The Lord miraculously blessed us and could find sweet gilr! Olga is so happy she is safe today and could stay with us for a while! We were very happy, rejoiced and celebrated in our hearts, when we found Olga, like shepherd a lost sheep! :)

Roads where we often have to drive

This is WHY!

   How would you feel while living in this house? What would you think when you sleep on a dirty and broken bed? What would you do, if you are often hungry? 

  When we arrived and entered this terrible house, it was a HUGE shock! Dirt, the smell of cigarettes and alcohol, the stench, the dark and old house that is about to fall... All this terrifies and the question arises. Do people live here???

  We knew that Sveta was living in terrible conditions, but we had no idea that they were so terrible. Huge shock and silence! I began to understand the young lady much better, why there are some difficulties in everyday life and behavior. Our hearts were absolutely broken when we saw where she grew up or sometimes she came to visit her parents and smaller siblings. I stood silently for a long time and was ready to cry.

  Children seemed to be ok with this... Because they are used to this life and have not seen anything better in life... :( I`m typing and my eyes are full of tears. My heart is heavy... I do not find words to explain this whole nightmare...

Yes, they sleep on this bed

 

  Do you see a small sandwich and a half orange on the table? Natasha, who is 14 and graduated orphanage this year. She brought the food from the orphanage. The poor girl knew that there was no food at home ...

Here is sleeping 13 year old Vova. Yes, on this terrible and dirty couch, without a bedding,without a warm blanket and a soft pillow and probably full of lice and bedbugs.Can you imagine how cold it is in winter?

There is no electricity in the house

These leaky and horrible doors lead to the street.

The support inside the house so that the ceiling does not fall down on head

A rotting ceiling that can collapse at any time...

Seeing all this nightmare and danger in which children live, we simply could not leave them there!!!

  Parents drink for a long time and absolutely do not care about these beautiful kids...By court decision, they should be deprived of parental rights in several months.

 Children will live until the end of the summer with us. When they officially become orphans (on paper), the state will decide their further fate.

  Kids were so excited to be out of home! You would see how Sveta laughed and was so joyful her younger sister and brother are with her!

Brother Misha taught Vova how to use a fork...

And what kids don`t like icecream? :)

  When we started to wash all their clothes that they took with them. It broke my heart that the clothes were in the same condition as the house. Everything looked like trash and there wasn’t anything to be washed because the clothes were very worn out. Therefore, we are forced to buy these lovely souls ABSOLUTELY EVERYTHING!

  This is the reason WHY children get to orphanages! Poverty, hunger, hopelessness, alcoholism, abandoned, violence and much more... They survive! This is the reason WHY we attend orphanages. This is the reason WHY we support graduates. This is the reason why BOM supports poor families. And this WHY your support and prayers are so cherished!

  Today, these lovely children are safe, sleeping on clean beds, taking a shower every day, their bellies are full, they spend time together, laugh, play. We study the Bible daily. It was funny when one of the girls began to eat and Natasha said. "Wait! We did not pray yet!" And they live only a few days with us! They quickly learn new things and are so sweet! :)

  But most importantly, they are surrounded by love and care. We are so blessed to take care of them! We do not know what will happen to these kids. We ask you to support us in prayers, please. Pray God to give us wisdom, strength and patience. Pray God to change their minds and precious hearts. They are absolutely  immature and such children! Pray for God to take care of their needs. They have some health problems and we will need time and funds to help these sweet souls. We need take them to a dentist. Also Natasha is 14, but she is so very tiny as a 9-year-old girl! We need to help her body to grow. And many other worries. We need the mercy of God... Thank you so much for your care and love! Your prayers mean a lot for us!!! ♥♥♥ God is so good as always! We love you all!!! :)

God sets the lonely in families (part 2)

  Last year, when we first took teenagers to the Carpathian mountains. We were very worried, there were a lot of difficulties and experiences. But God blessed in an incredible way! And it was one of the best trips!!! During the week while we were living with the children together, God began to work with my heart. Knowing the horrible stories from the life of children, it overwhelmed my heart even more knowing what awaits them outside the orphanage... The more I prayed, the more and more God gave me the desire to take several girls into my family to help, protect, teach them life skills and surround them with care and love. I knew it would not be easy... Perhaps even harder than I could imagine. I knew that I would spend more than one night in tears and that more than once my heart would be broken. But the heart pain for these abandoned and defenseless girls was stronger. Stronger than me. Love and incredible desire was beyond my strength. 

 My greatest fear was. Can girls get along with a special girl? Will I not be a witness to insults and strife? Can I handle it? How will Masha feel? and so on...

 I forgot many details of life in the orphanage. But when the girls started living with us and doing some things. My brain turned on in a moment and I remembered that we did the same thing at the orphanage! Wow! At some point, it became shocking to me and scared a little! I was even confused for a moment by suddenness. That I do not remember much, but my brain remembers! I thank Jesus that He set me free and healed my heart!What a mighty God we serve!

The girls are sweet and very different ...

 Luba, brave and confident in herself, at first glance, was very worried and afraid to live in a students dorm ... When she heard that she could live with us, the girl burst into tears...

For one of the girls we were told that she was a difficult teenager. I decided to try and prayed that the Lord would give me the opportunity to try to help this beautiful young lady, to do everything in my power. "Even if she lives several months and go, I will be grateful to You my Lord", I prayed. My heart was broken.We know her from 4 years old, when she was in the Children`s House, which BOM also supports.

Lyuba at Children`s House

Lyuba at the orphaange

On the first day of trade school, it turned out that the administration had "forgotten" Luba to add to the list of students who had to live in dorm and there was no place there. Coincidence? I do not think so! God already knew and prepared a place for her! If people forget, but not God! God has a place for orphaned child!

  Sveta had a similar situation, problems with the settlement in the domitory. She was very frightened, confused and defenseless ... Again an random event? God has no random events! He had already prepared a place for her also! When she officially (according to the documents of the trade school) came to our home. You would see her! She became so happy, joyful and even more talkative!We could not believe our eyes!

"God sets the lonely in families..." (Psalm 68:5)

 Girls live for almost a year with us.This is what Lyuba says:

•  During these years you have replaced my parents.

• You support me very much, both emotionally and physically. I learned a lot from you.

• I changed a lot for the better while living with you. Everyone noticed and is talking about it. I became softer, generous and grateful. You taught me a lot to appreciate what I have. In spite of some difficulty, you need to love what you have, that I live, I have my arms, legs and so on ...

•   During this year, when I live with you, I do not remember when I was crying. I was more pleased and more joyful!

• I saw a lot, and learned a lot about what I did not know before. I also learned a lot about God. Since our guests at the orphanage told only about the creation of the earth and nothing else.

• I learned that God is not only there in the Heaven, but always near. He represents Himself through someone when trouble comes. When it's hard for me, I always turn to God and He helps me. I used to think that God created everything and just watched us. Now I know more about Him. I did not even imagine that He would act so fast in my life!

• Without you, I would not find a job and get into trouble. Thank you for the help!(Lyuba is going to work soon during summer time).

•   If I lived in a dorm, then I do not know what would happened with me... I have no idea. But I see how girls survive in the dorm.

•   I have no one to share my worries as mom and dad are constantly drinking alcohol. And you are always near me and constantly support me! You are always with me when something is wrong.You became like mom for me.

Love heals broken hearts!!! ♥♥♥

The other girl was very reserved, rarely spoke, only briefly answering questions. She always looked sad and with her head down. Sveta has very low self-esteem, uncertainty...At the boarding school, she had little contact with anyone and rarely was friends with someone. Sveta did not know what she wants from life, did not know what she liked or what she loved, there were no desires or dreams. :( She looked like a small cute snail that hid and was afraid to lean out.

Children who grow up in secluded places and are isolated from the world cannot see anything. When they finish an orphanage, it is difficult for them to adapt and face various difficulties. Very often graduates of orphanages are 5-10 years behind their peers and often immature. Sveta is such a sweet girl. God gave the desire to take her into our family, teach life skills and protect against all dangers. Once, when we gave her money for her needs (for a bus ticket to school and other needs). She burst into tears ... and revealed her precious heart about her personal experiences at her family...

Over time, Sveta began to unfold more. Talk more and even laugh! Today, every day you can hear this children's light-hearted laugh in our house! She found friends and became much more confident in herself. She began to defend for herself and to assert her rights. The girl began to study better in school and in her free time to practice her favorite needlework. When she hears words of encouragement, you would see her shining eyes!Sweet girl...

Looking at her, I see myself in childhood, with low self-esteem and many other problems. She still has a lot of problems. But we see huge changes in her life and behavior! This gives us tremendous hope! We pray that Jesus saved her and healed her broken heart!♥

Sveta is studying for cooker in a trade school

  Both girls became wonderful friends. Once Lyuba said: "I never thought that we would be friends with Sveta! After all, in the orphanage, we were not friends at all!" :) When she hugs, she keeps you for a few minutes without letting go. ♥

The girls learned to cook pizza

   Children came from very difficult families, where they were deprived of childhood. :( The girls had to go through and see a lot of things ... Orphanage, a shelter for children and a lot of terrible moments both in the families and in the boarding school. Insult, humiliation, ridicule, indifference, loneliness, abandonment, helplessness, drunkenness of parents, tears, fear, hunger and many, many other things.

 And you know what? God turned my greatest fear into a blessing!They became best friends with Masha! :) They protect her when necessary, help, have fun and more. And they even fight together against me and Oksana! Haha

Yes, we have difficulties ... Big and small. It is not easy to be a mom of teenagers with a broken heart and soul. I realized that I, as a mother, need to learn a lot more, very, very much! Every day I learn something new... Every day I learn to depend on Christ, needing His wisdom, patience, and strength. We need a lot of prayer, love and patience ...

Lyuba often remembers and is delighted that we remember and support her from the very childhood.Once a few months later living with us, she asked:" Maybe you adopt me?" And Sveta. "Yes! Yes! And me too!" This is impossible by the law of Ukraine. And I always tell girls that I adopted them in my heart. ♥♥♥We are very attached to each other and love them dearly! We are feeling blessed to support and love them! They stole my heart...

 So, our small family is growing ♥ :) God is doing AMAZING things!

Please, pray for the hearts of these beautiful young ladies! God cover their needs.So that they entrust their lives to Jesus Christ! That He changed their minds and healed broken hearts. So that in Him they find salvation, comfort and peace in hearts. Thank you so much! ♥

God sets the lonely in families

   "I felt like a homeless, and now I'm a human..." These words were uttered by a young lady after we bought her several new things. She was so happy and so excited  that she called her friends and talked on the phone, ran to work to show employees her new clothes, took pictures and put up them in the social networks. It seemed the whole city knew that the girl had new clothes! Her joy was not the end!!! :) ♥

   So, what happened? More than a year ago, someone phoned me and said that Masha was going to take money on credit. I instantly rushed to the bank to stop her from this idea and from the consequences of what a girl might expect. Orphans often do not return loans and they often have problems with the law. 

  We met Masha on the street. We know the young lady for a long time and were happy to meet. She was very hungry! We fed her and had fellowship. When I asked the girl, where do you live? She burst into tears... It turned out she had nowhere to live! Oh, my! How?!

  After she graduated orphanage and then a trade school, she lived with her friend in a dormitory for several months. Then her friend moved out, and Masha was forced to look for another housing. For several weeks she lived in a strange family. She came only for a night. In the morning she left and wandered around the city not knowing what to do... Then she was placed in the center for the homeless. She was frightened and ran away from there.

   I understood that I had to do something so do not to leave the orphan on the street... I understood that I could not help everyone, but I can to help an one. The Lord gave me the decision to take Masha to live with me. I was scared. Since there were serious reasons for this.I knew that this would affect our ministry, the privacy of my sister Oksana and my personal life. I didn’t know if a 20 year old girl could change. I had NO IDEA what to do with her and that it was God's plan ...

  I prayed and asked for the help of God, I asked all our friends to pray. I did not know what to do with her. She was so helpless as a small child... She was terrified, unable to help herself and defenseless. I saw that she had a lot of difficulties in all areas of life. I felt helpless because I didn’t know where to start... Because it’s a huge list of things to teach this poor soul. Trust me, huge! 

  We started to learn the elementary things. How to take care of yourself, make the bed every morning, say gentle words. We taught her how to hug. At first she did not perceive it. But today, when she goes to bed, she asks. "Alla, will you hug me?" :)))

 We were surprised that Masha kept all the documents. Orphans usually lose them. Once studying her documents, we discovered that Masha had another sister whom she did not know about... And that her father died some time ago... :( The poor girl was shocked and  overwhelmed. "Why didn't anyone tell me about it at the orphanage?" the sweetheart asked with tears in her eyes...

  Honestly, every day I waited for her to leave... It is difficult for orphans to obey the rules. I waited that one day she would not return home. I was scared and at the same time heartbroken for her. That she is so helpless. That she will again be on the street. Absolutely not mature and not ready for independent life. This poor girl has a lot of issues...

  Orphans have a lot of difficulties after they leave orphanages. They do not understand that because of their behavior, they can easily be killed, that some situations are very dangerous and their actions can completely destroy their life.
  Masha is kind, very trusting and people manipulate her life, using for their own purposes.

About a month later, we began to see results... It was clear that she tried and it gave us a great hope. Masha very quickly found a job and started earning her first money.

  The young lady could not and did not know how to make tea. She was terrified to turn on the electric kettle. I decided to start teaching her to cook with elementary things. When the young lady learned to fry scrambled eggs. She was  so super excited that she cooked it every day for several weeks!!! :)))
Masha learned to use different household appliances, washing machine, vacuum cleaner, microwave and others. She likes to help to cook in the kitchen.

   Once I asked her. If you like to cook so much. Why don't you go to school to learn for a chef? We helped the girl arrange all the necessary documents. During this, we faced many difficulties and realized that the poor soul would never do it herself in her life! If you know Ukrainian system for paperwork :( God loves her and has a special plan for her life! The Lord himself arranged this meeting 1,5 years ago to help this sweetheart!

  Do you know what?! Today Masha is one of the best students in her group! The precious soul not only cooks well, but is very active in the life of the trade school! She gladly performs the important task assigned to her. Also she won second place in the game of chess between adults with special needs and first place among the women! There was no end to our joy!!! Masha exulted!!!That is huge victory for this sweet girl!!! ♥

   If a year and a half ago, the girl did not have dreams and did not know what she wanted from life. Today she has a dream to work in the kitchen as an assistant chef. We pray that her dream will come true some day!

  Masha loves to be in the fellowship of the church! She loves when we read the word of God together daily. "I feel that something is happening in my heart and it becomes easy and calm there, when we read the Bible". The girl shared her thoughts once. ♥

 It humbles and warms my heart... The main reason is show her the love of Christ!!! That is most AMAZING blessing when a soul feels the presense of God! The precious girl often asks to pray for her salvation. Will you pray for her, please? :)

  It is not always easy... There were many tears and many prayers. Sometimes it was very difficult and unbearably painful... There were moments when I wanted to leave home for a few days and weeks and be alone in the distance...There were moments when I survived the depression. But thank God for many years of serving the orphans, I learned how to overcome this crisis.

   The trauma of childhood is the worst thing that can be... Today I understand very well families with children with FASD(Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder). I know very well what a child with a childhood trauma is. I know  what is tantrums. I understand families with children with special needs. I have to learn soooo much yet!

  When I was thinking. Where will this girl go? What does she feel? What will happen to her tomorrow? She will be on the street again, in danger, alone, in fear... I was even scared to think about it. I realized that she was in pain. That is the spiritual struggle of my spirit and flesh. What the farther I am from Christ, the more I hope for my own strength, the more it hurts me. But the closer to Christ, the more I trust Him, the more you feel His presence and the easier it is to endure all issues. When I have no strength, I begin to give up. God shows his powerful hand. ♥♥♥

And we have seen not once incredible miracles in Masha's life! That was something! We were in awe! A real miracle! 

Masha first time in mountains. She was thrilled and thanked million times!:)

   During these 1,5 years, I realized that I needed to change myself ... I realized how weak I was and I can do NOTHING without Christ! I am totally dependent on Him! Totally! God taught me a lot! I am learning daily and happy to be in the school of Christ! It is not easy to live with a teenage girl with a broken heart and soul. But believe me, it's worth it! When God comes first, when you daily understand why you are doing this. It's worth it! It is worth experiencing all the pain and tears when you see the first small glimpses that give hope. It is worth worrying when you see how the suffering soul needs your help and depends on you. It is worth suffering when you see these small or huge changes in the life of a precious person.

Birthday with BOM family :)

  We do not and cannot know what will happen tomorrow. We don't know God's plans for Masha's life. But we thank God for giving the opportunity to help this poor girl and become part of her huge changes in her life. Over the past year and a half she has changed a lot! Everyone in the church community sees these changes and is undoubtedly happy for her. She began to bloom! She began to live a full life and flourish! God taught me soooo much personally and the whole BOM team as well!

   The Lord accepted us into His huge and loving family. He called us His children and surrounded us with his overflowing love. We praying that the Lord help us to recognize and see those around us, who He wants to put in our family. He sets the lonely in families. We are praying that our hearts be open to Him and to others.♥♥♥

And this is only the beginning of the story. The rest of the story to be continued soon…  ;)

P.S.I just finished this blog post and one beautiful young lady sent me a message. "Call me urgently!" I called her back. And she was crying so much in the phone saying that today her mother died from alcohol ..