Our days weren’t much warmer than our nights, but moving around helped keep us warm. So, we spent time playing soccer at the orphanage, visiting babushkas in nearby villages, and making general repairs at the summer camp (Lindsey, Carly, and I made a volleyball court!). We also spent Easter eating candy and searching for colored eggs with the orphans.
I enjoyed doing ministry in Ukraine but the thing I will remember the most are the nights spent around the fire. Every night Joel would light a fire (Thank you Joel!) and we would be drawn to its warmth. Some nights I only spent a few minutes before heading to bed. Other nights, I would stay for hours mesmerized by the flames. We held worship, told stories, ate s’mores, and laughed a lot. Sarah caught herself on fire twice (pants and hair–no injuries). Joel and Aaron worried their teammates by trying to jump the fire. Squad mate, Erin, had a birthday and we celebrated with fireworks and a dance party. The fun and laughter helped us forget the cold – friendships were strengthened and memories made.
Ukraine was cold, but I’ll always remember the warmth by the fire.
