Blueberries and more Blueberries

On Thursday, we drove to the orphanage camps on the coast of Finland to spend time with the kids of orphanage No.14, 60 and 2. We were anxious about spending our time with the kids at No. 14 because we had heard their hearts were more calloused. As a team we decided we wanted to focus on why they were created and what the Kingdom of God has in store for them. We wanted to leave them with the fact that God is real. The first day the kids were distracted (playing on their cell phones, laughing, listening to music), but as the days went on the cell phones and headphones were put away and they were attentively asking questions. We felt God slowly softening their hearts. He is working on these kids.

On the first day the director came up to us as we were leaving and handed us a huge bucket of blueberries. The kids had picked them especially for us. That night we ate the fresh blueberries until we couldn’t eat anymore! Then, the next day one of the boys came running down the road with another huge bucket of blueberries. The last day the caregivers prepared a huge blueberry pie for us, and I think it is the best thing we have eaten all month long.

Today we saw the orphans from No. 2. The children there are no older than eleven. When we started walking up, a stream of little children came running towards us and literally jumping in our arms. It was a moment I will not forget. A girl named Kristina began talking with me. I told her I was from Dallas, Texas, and she said I am going to live there very soon. I found out she and her brother are in the process of being adopted by a family from Dallas. It is encouraging to think about the life has she has now and the plans the Lord has for her. I am hoping the next time I see her will be in Dallas.

Kenya--Week Three

Wow what a week! Everywhere we look we see God at work. In a place where it would be so easy to lose faith or become angry at God, there is hope. Just like the education center in Korogocho is a haven of hope and peace in the midst of unrest and chaos, there is a peace throughout this place that says God is here and we are not forgotten.

This week we were able to do so much for the kids. On Saturday, we were able to take the kids on a field trip to a boat park. The kids faces glowed as they were able to see animals and ride rides. In all of the excitement one of the little boys got sick. As he laid on my lap, tears rolling down his face, all I could do was thank God that I was there to love on him. As Tricia pointed out to me later, even when we get sick all we desire is our mother to comfort us and take care of us. For the kids here they don't get that privilege. They are left to comfort themselves. What an honor it was to be used by God in this way to be the hand of God to this young child.

We were also able to provide the children with a sweet treat of sugar cane this week. Their eyes just lit up with the excitement of such a rare treat. The room was filled with happiness as were able to give each child a sugar cane of their own. To top off our week we were able to sit in on a True Love Waits class. Here we were able to give an American and a Christian perspective to these kids. God is at work here and it is amazing!!!

What God Has Done

This week, we have been working in another group home for special needs. It has been an amazing time. We have felt the renewing of our strength as we go and do not tire of playing with the children. There are twelve children in this home, the oldest is 15 and the youngest is 7. We have enjoyed every moment of pushing Emilut on the tricycle, dancing with Adriana, running all over the yard with Claudia, walking with them into town to get ice cream and watching Marius dance as LeAllison sang to him. These kids are truly amazing and as I sit and watch them my heart is filled with love and compassion for them.

Last night in the group home, one of the caretakers, Tubi, came out to the yard with two photo albums. She shared some stories about the children and she said that Bobi was her favorite and went on to share his story. Bobi, at age three, was in the hospital. He was unable to walk after already having two years of therapy. The doctors said that he would be a vegetable for his life. She was one of the caretakers at the home he was placed in. During their breaks all of the caretakers would go to the store or sit outside and smoke. On her break, she would massage his feet and spend her time working with him. Eventually she taught him how to walk and now, at age 10, he runs around the yard like all of the other children. The love for him was evident and you could see it in her eyes as she looked at her “Bobitsa.” It was truly a miracle to see how her unconditional love had brought him so far.

The translators and in-country staff have also been a huge blessing to us. They are always so willing to take us shopping or to the post office to buy phone cards or whatever we need, and they do all this without complaining. They have been great about translating what the kids are telling us and also for the entire two to three-hour long church services. We would be in quite a bind if they were not here. But we have also enjoyed watching them interact with the children. The kids all have great respect for them and flock to them as soon as we arrive at the homes. They share story after story of what these kids used to be and how much they have changed.

Wisdom and Revelation

Yesterday and today we went to Hospital No. 15, which is where the newest orphans are taken and assessed. The kids are there for less than three months. Yesterday, I went to the baby room and held a two month old baby named Dima. I have never seen a baby this sick before. I was reminded of the huge amount of love and attention I got as a baby. I prayed over Dima, asking that he would know Jesus. What does the Lord have in store for this child?

There was a twelve year old girl named Vera who experienced her first day at Hospital No. 15 yesterday. She had been living in a tent in the woods with her parents since she was six years old and had never been to school. Her father was convicted of murder and right now the orphanage is the only place for her. Pray for Vera.

We came to Russia expecting to show Jesus to children, but what we didn't expect is the deepened desire to know Christ. Our prayer from the beginning has been Ephesians 1:17-19. We have been filled with a spirit of wisdom and revelation of our Lord Jesus Christ. We are coming back to America as changed people.

Jesus Loves Me

Hello from Cuzco! We have been staying in this beautiful city since Sunday afternoon, working with a short-term team from Dallas. Our new intern Katie joined us this week, and we have really enjoyed getting to know her in the past few days.

Our focus is an all-girls' home about 10 minutes away from the downtown area. The orphanage houses about 40 girls from ages 7 to 19. The men on the team are busy laying a tile floor in a room at the home, and the women are doing a VBS program with the girls.

This experience has already been so rewarding just in the past two days. Yesterday, we gave each girl her very own Bible and journal. Many of them were immediately busy reading and studying. I can't describe how much I love seeing them pore over God's Word. I am so thankful that this team has been able to provide this for the girls. What better thing could we give them?



Another moment I really enjoyed in this home occurred this morning. My group had a few extra minutes before we needed to switch to the next activity, so Guili, one of Buckner's Peruvian staff, led the girls in singing "Jesus Loves Me" - in Spanish of course. Hearing them sing joyfully about Jesus' love in their own language brought tears to my eyes.


There have been many other rewarding experiences. We have done crafts, played games, told Bible stories, read Max Lucado's "You Are Special," taken pictures, and just talked. I have connected with several girls. I am so thankful for being able to spend this week here. And as an added bonus, on Thursday we all get to visit Machu Picchu! We're very excited about that.

Thank you for your prayers! Ciao until next week!
Anna (& Katie & Klista)

Our Fifteen Minutes of Fame

This past week we were in the great town of Tikhvin. We loved it and they loved us. When we walked up to the orphanage on Tuesday we were being videoed by the local news team. They interviewed each of us with questions ranging from "Why did you come to Russia?" to "Have you read any Russian literature?" They documented us playing with the kids all morning. We prayed about how they would portray our hearts because the media has a tendency to distort reality. On Thursday they aired the segment and it was nothing but positivity about our work. They actually were using our story to encourage the Russian people to become more involved in the orphanage.

On Friday, we gave all 28 orphanage workers a party to honor them for all of the work they do. These women work hard and long with little recognition and it was a blessing for us to be given the opportunity to serve and encourage them. Brooke and Kim (the organizers of crafts) worked extremely hard all week to assist the kids in making a quilt to give the workers. It was a special moment to allow the children to give back to women that have given them so much.

On Saturday as we walked the pathway from the orphanage to our van. We turned around and there was a trail of children following us. They took our bags and carried them for us and and waved goodbye as we drove off. This was a precious moment.

Our team leader said something that will stick with me forever. She said "some of these children have never been prayed for before." I was reminded of the many people that pray for me and how much I need it. These children need it! We might be the only people that pray for them. So, the faces and names of more children are written on our hearts forever. Help us pray for the children of Tikhvin.

A City on a Hill Cannot be Hidden

Well, we have been here in Kenya for two weeks now...it feels like it's been 2 days! It is flying by. On Tuesday, we went to the Korogocho Slum to visit the Baptist Youth Center there. I can’t even explain in words what this slum was like. It was quite different than the Kibera Slum we visited last week. So many thoughts went through our minds as we drove through and looked in the eyes of the lost and hopeless men, woman, and children.
We have all seen pictures of slums and poverty, but actually seeing it in person is so incredibly overwhelming and emotionally draining. There was a feeling of anger and despair in this place. It was so dark and eerie.

After traveling a little while through the dirt streets, we finally arrived at the Youth Center. It was in the heart of the slum. There was a huge trash heap behind the Center. It went for miles and the stench was almost unbearable, but when we stepped inside the gates of the Center there was a sense of peace. The presence of God was overflowing. We met the principal/preacher and walked around to all the classrooms. We were amazed at how respectful and disciplined the children were. The teachers and staff had a joy I've never seen before.

In the midst of all the darkness and despair there was this place that shined so bright. Cicely reminded us of how many times we put God in a box. We think He is only in America, but he is moving in hearts even in the most remote parts of the world. His love is great for the abandoned and neglected.

This Youth Center in the middle of this slum reminded me of Matthew 5:14, "You are the light of the world. A city on a hill cannot be hidden." These people were not discouraged by the darkness that surrounded them, instead they let their light shine before men. What an incredible testimony of God's love and faithfulness! He will hear all who call upon His name no matter if they live in a mansion in the city or in a house made of mud and sticks in the slums of Africa. God has truly made beauty from ashes and we are seeing it first hand!

We are still in awe of the hearts of the staff; their prayer is that the Center would be a place where people would see Jesus and where burdens would be lifted. Please continue to pray for our team, that we would keep strong as we continue to share the love of Christ.

Matt. 11:28 "Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest."

The Kenya Girls (Tricia, Cicely, and Tori)

Zua de Campie

This week we worked at the orphanage in Zau de Campie. As we pulled up to the orphanage on the first day, I felt like I was in a movie. Some of the things that happen there seem like they could come right out of “Annie”.

The orphanage is actually a castle, which sits on a hill above the city. It can be seen for miles around. It looks good on the outside, but it could use a little work on the inside. It functions for housing 45 kids. Kelly compared the castle to the children, saying that they look good on the outside, but they could use some help in the inside. It is heartrending to hear their stories. In the orphanage, there are five children, all brothers and sisters, who were dropped off at the orphanage by their parents at Christmastime. It is hard to imagine a time that is supposed to be so joyful turn out to be so painful for these children.

We have had an emotional week. Starting out with complete chaos. The kids were running wild and not sitting still to listen to the story or do the craft. The translators were having quite a time keeping them in line. The older girls were also a hard group. They did not want to participate in the activities. We became increasingly more frustrated with the language barrier and being unable to communicate with them.

Today was a party day with the children, and that was the major turning point in our relationships with them. We played with them the whole day, and then we had a party for all the children whose birthdays are in July. I think that the quality time we spent with them is greater than any words we could have spoken to them. When they saw we really do care about them and do not have other motives they warmed up to us.

One of the highlights was yesterday when two of the little girls were doing LeAllison’s and my hair. They would put it up and when we turned around to show them how they looked they would just sit there and laugh.

We have been blessed and encouraged by the faithfulness of God in strengthening us. We take joy in the small reactions: the hugs and kisses, the fighting over who is going to hold your hand, their wanting to talk with us and teach us Romanian, and the abundance of smiles and laughter.

A Gift and a Smile

We have been having an amazing second week here in Lima. For the first couple of weeks we were on our own, and we spent time in two homes for teen moms who have been homeless or sexually abused. It was so wonderful to spend time with them and play with their babies. At the first home, I made friends with a girl named Doylith. I felt a special bond with her and it was difficult to leave. She gave me a teddy bear that belonged to her baby. I felt so humbled to receive a gift from her out of her poverty.

I visited a home for babies this morning. I made friends with a little boy who was about two or three. He was so serious and not expressive, and I prayed that I would be able to get him to smile by the time we had to leave an hour later. It took about 45 minutes, but by the end, he was not only smiling but laughing. I can't express what joy it gave me to see the smile on his face and hear his laughter.

I have loved being here with Katy and Klista. They are amazing to serve with and each one brings something unique and special to the experience. Most of all, we are so blessed to serve these children and show them Jesus' love. Thank you for your prayers!

Ciao!
Anna

Scrub-a-dub-dub

All of the interns in Guatemala are so grateful for the teams who come and make more things possible. With so many hearts all wanting to bless the kids in a special way, we were able to do something remarkable last week.

Because of the large number of children and the overwhelmed workers, I can often smell the children when they haven’t been bathed recently. We stopped VBS one day and showed these children how much God loves them through showers! Everyone in our team got to experience something very special this day.

Our leader Alison worked behind the scenes handling the babies and caring for them so everyone else could help with the showers. Patiently loving these restless babies, her kindness was as soothing as the lotion.

Brandon was on the other side helping out with the boys. When almost everyone had gone, Brandon and other guys from the team went the extra mile. Edvin has found a special place in each of our hearts. He is in a wheelchair with special needs and is probably often neglected from things like showers. These guys picked up Edvin and held his dead weight to see that he got what we take for granite everyday: a shower. Their dedication to “the least of these” inspired all of us, and probably the caretakers too, to give beyond our self.

Beth and Heather distributed the clothes to the fresh and clean children. As they dressed the little shivering kids, they took off the only outfit we had seen them in all week. They both worked so hard to see that each child received clothes that fit them. The girls were literally walking taller and smiling bigger. It’s amazing how clean hair and new clothes can bring so much needed confidence.

Nydia can communicate with the kids in their own language. You can always see her running around doing everything under the sun. We all relate to the kids in some ways, but it is Nydia who can really dive deep with each child and listen and minister to their hearts.

I was at the hair station combing through their hair and pulling it back with cute new clips. Even though there were a lot of children, I decided not to rush. I took my time on each child and remembered how much I loved my mom fixing and playing with my hair each morning before school. After I finished, I took a picture of each kid and let them see themselves and reaffirmed how beautiful they are.

The whole experience brought the kids and us memories and life lessons that will last longer than the shower. Thank you for your prayers. God is working and we are seeing decisions made and lives changed.

The Battle at Lo Bohinka

Monday morning we journeyed to an orphanage two hours outside of St. Petersburg called Lo Bohinka. This place was new to all of us, even Katya and Kinsey who have been Buckner Interns to Russia before. As we pulled up, the little faces of strangers poked out and looked at us. It is hard to believe in six days those strangers became good friends.

On Tuesday we began VBS, and during the story time two government officials came to see what we were doing. At this point we were unsure of what this meant, but we thought they would jeopardize how long we would be able to stay. We were anticipating more officials to come during the week. Tuesday night we filled the orphanage with prayers of protection.

Wednesday came and we found out that an orphanage caregiver called the government because she did not like what we were doing. The director of the orphanage was so upset with how she treated us that she fired her and told us that we were not allowed to leave and were welcome there. For this battle was not ours but God's, and of course the King of the Universe would win!

We were able to teach the children about how much Jesus loves them and what he has done for them. We were able to play with them and encourage them...even if it was a Russian Punk Rock concert performed by the older boys in our room at 11:00 p.m. (Yes, I have it all on video). We ask that you join our team in praying for the children of Lo Bohinka. We want the Truth that they heard this week to become real in their lives.

Our Journey Has Just Begun in Kenya

Wow! I don't even know where to start. We have been here for 5 days and have seen so many incredible things. We have worked at the BCC with the orphans and students in the classrooms, serving the kids in the kitchen, working with Martha in the medical clinic, and spending time with the girls in the sewing class. the other day while working at the medical clinic I (Tricia) met a man named John. He works at the BCC as a security gaurd. We mopped the porch together and talked to him for at least 2 hours. I will never forget the conversation I had with John. He is 38 years old with a wife and kids at home. He lives right there in the village next to BCC. John has never been to school in his life. He works hard all day long to provide for his family. John has close to nothing when it comes to material things, but his faith in the Lord is all he needs. John has such a joyful radiance about him...I never see him without a smile on his face. He truly is in love with Christ. Throughout our whole conversation he was quoting scripture and everything he said was centered on God. He kept saying, "God has blessed me with so much and provides for me and my family everyday." How humbling. It made me want the kind of faith John has...it puts mine to shame. John will be the first in the Kingdom of Heaven. His dependency on God has brought me to my knees in surrender to the Lord. We have learned to much already about ourselves, but this is just one example.

Cicely, Tori, and I went to the baby aids home. It was so fulfilling to hold those precious children and show them the love of Christ and affection they long for. These babies are found in pits, their bodies are damaged, and most are abandoned. The ladies that work at the home love and care for these children....so we can praise God that he has raised up leaders to watch over them. It is amazing to think that God has a plan for each one of those little babies and children. They were left and forgotten by someone, but our God loves them and has protected them. It's exciting to think about how He will use those kids for His glory!

Our trip has been incredible thus far. This is just a pinch of what we have experienced. We are all still in awe that God would use us to fulfill His purposes here in Kenya. We look foward to what lies ahead. Our journey has just begun and we're excited to see what God has in store for us in the coming weeks.

The Kenya Girls

Romania--Week One

One of the highlights of the week was attending church on Sunday night with Cristina and Ioana (Buckner in country staff). There were about 150 in attendance and they were all very excited to be at church. It was neat to hear songs that I recognized even though the words were not the same. We do not speak the same language, yet, we are all able to worship the same God together.

The children are such a huge blessing and encouragement. They are so much fun to hang out with and they are well behaved for the most part. It is great to hear them sing “Father Abraham” in English and know that they have no idea what they are singing; they sure are enthusiastic about it though! As soon as we walk into the classroom the children get these huge smiles on their faces and run up and give us big hugs and the little girls want to be held the whole time. They are precious.

It is heart breaking to know that most of these children will probably only get to attend school for two years and then they will go back to be at home. The uniforms and books are too expensive for many of the families to have the children continue their education. Thus, this cycle of poverty is repeated.

I am greatly blessed by the caretakers in the group home. I am blessed by how they love these children and care for them unconditionally. How they patiently rebuke them and do not yell and scream at the children until they obey. They lovingly care for them, hold them, kiss them and laugh with them.

I am reminded of a conversation en route to Romania. I was sitting with LeAllison and she said that sometimes we get too comfortable with our lives and we take things for granted. We get to go to Romania! What a huge blessing! We need to soak it all in and not get frustrated when things do not go how we had planned because we have been given this great opportunity and we want to get everything out of it that we can.

I hope that we never take this for granted. We are blessed to be here and to serve these children. May we not worry how many times they pull our hair out or pick our noses or push us over; may we be ridiculously goofy as though there were no one to criticize; and may we open our hearts to love them just as Christ loves them.

Little Hands, Tiny Feet

The emotions that stir inside of you when you walk into an orphanage are unreal. Today I was humbled and heartbroken for these little ones.

Already these little arms that hug and the big smiles that love, have grabbed my heart. In a situation that should be surrounded by despair and no hope, the kids are so happy. There is no sound more beautiful than the children’s laugh I heard all day today.

We taught the kids memory verses, a bible story, made crafts and played games. It was so awesome to hear their little voices reciting scripture, and to hear them yell “Dios” (GOD) to answer the questions. There were even some kids who stumbled upon a Bible and were glued to reading the Word of God, and so carefully turning each page.

The orphanage we are in has 96 children and too few workers. It is not realistic that the kids get a bath everyday or close to that. On Wednesday, we will bathe each and every precious child and then place new clothes on them. What an experience.

God has blessed me with such an opportunity to be here. And the team of interns here in Guatemala is the greatest. I probably tell them four times a day how much they rock! As I go through probably one of the hardest months for me emotionally, I am so thankful for the people serving beside me that have the same heart.

Please keep us and the kids in your prayers,

Ashley O

Blessing in Disguise

Below are some pictures of our work in Zacapa.

The little boy in the is Gyro. He is 7. He is one of the children that stole my heart! It was sad to leave him on our last day there!

I am writing you all from a coffee shop in Antigua, Guatemala where the other four interns and I will continue our trip this next week. We have the opportunity to go to language school here in Guatemala this week and have one on one personal, intensive Spanish classes with a teacher for five hours a day. I am excited for the opportunity to improve my Spanish, and I am praying for the possibility of sharing my faith with someone I meet this coming week!

Our last week working with Buckner, we worked with East Main Christian Church from Indiana. Only three people from their church were able to make it, so we worked with a much smaller team this week. With this team, we traveled to Zacapa, Guatemala, where we worked in the government orphanage for boys and girls there. There, the interns and I, had planned three days of activities for the kids there, including Bible study, crafts and recreation. The team helped us with each of these activities. The team wanted to make time to talk with the director of the orphanage, because they were looking to get their church involved in the process of supporting the orphanage in Guatemala.

One of the days, there was already a team there, and apparently the person in charge of scheduling had double booked the orphanage for that day. We were all a little bummed because we could not do activities with the kids that day. We were going to wash their feet and talk about how Jesus was a servant when he washed the disciples’ feet. However, it turned out to be a blessing in disguise. The East Main team members were able to talk to a long term missionary from there and realize that there is a greater need for support at the San Gabriel boys home in Guatemala, as the needs in Zacapa have started to be met by this man and the teams he has been bringing with him in the past few months.

My time spent in Guatemala working with the orphans and in the government homes is one I will never forget. The love I feel for these kids will always be there, and I know I will always remember each of them. I hope to come back and see each of them again. And this trip only confirms for me, that I want to spend my life doing things like this and working with orphans. Please be praying for each of the kids in these homes in Guatemala! And by our faith that Jesus can change hearts, they could be healed!

Adios!

Amy

Finished with the trip, but not with Africa

While we are all ready to go home, we cannot believe that our month is almost over. We are spending most of our time this last week at the BCC.

Saturday we decided to do something special for the orphans at BCC. We made sweet chapati for the kids, which is like fried dough. The main cook gave us all the ingredients to buy and he taught us how to make it. We served it with milk and gave them all small presents. They all really enjoyed it. It was so neat to do something special for them.

On Monday, we went to a school in the Korogocho slum. Buckner helps support this school. We all really enjoyed our day there. I spent the day with the girls in the beauty school. They braided my hair into a weave, which I still have in. I just spent time talking with them and getting to know them. Carla spent the day with the sewing school, while Melissa spent time in the school. Both really enjoyed it.

Over this whole month, we have had great conversations with people. The culture here is so different and it has been challenging and exciting learning about life that is completely different than our own. Melissa stated it well for all of us. We feel finished with this trip, but not finished with Africa. We are so thankful for this opportunity to experience Africa and begin to grasp who these people are. We have been blessed by the orphans and the children we have made friends with. Thank you so much for your prayers and support.

Kristin

Prayer for hospital children in St. Petersburg, Russia

There is an orphanage in St. Petersburg that's called Hospital No. 15. It is a transitional orphanage that keeps children until all medical paperwork is filled out, after which they are assigned to different orphanages in and around the city. Some of the kids are brought in from the streets, while others are dropped off by their families. For most of the team, the hospital is a difficult place to be. One little girl, Natasha, was about 14 months old and has imprinted herself in the minds and hearts of a few from our team. While we were at the hospital this past week, her 18 year old mother dropped her off. As soon as the mother left, Natasha's eyes ran with tears. She screamed and looked desperately around for her mother. More heartbreaking still is the fact that she will probably never see her mother again, and an orphanage will be her new home for the rest of her childhood. When we put Natasha down to leave, she grasped frantically for us with terror in her eyes that she was being left again. This is not a unique case.

The hospital, and other orphanages for that matter, are filled with stories like Natasha's. On the same day Natasha was dropped, another little girl was brought in by the police. They had found this girl and her brother abandoned on the street. The brother was dead and the girl was starved and cold.

In face of this evil and sadness, it is only natural to question God and feel hopeless for these kids. But the truth is, there is hope. We have all been learning that though these children may have been abandoned by the world and even their families, Christ will not abandon them. There are people here in Russia who love these kids with Christ's love and visit them regularly. Grandmothers from the Buckner Babushka program go to the hospital to rock the infants, play with the children and make themselves available to give the children attention the caregivers can't always give. Also, the full time Buckner staff in Russia continues to devote their lives to loving the children at the hospital and show them Jesus and his love for them. One boy named Vova has been in the hospital for 12 years. He is 19 now and has cerebral palsy. His parents were killed when he was seven in a car crash, and his only living relatives are his brother and his cousin, both who are homeless and caught up in drug addiction. The head doctor of the hospital took a special interest in Vova and has personally cared for him and made it possible for him to remain at the hospital. Vova is an exceptional person, and he in fact met Jesus through Buckner's workers, Christian teams visiting Russia from places like Germany and the U.S., and from local Christian volunteers. Though his situation is still tragic, Vova says he has hope for his future through Christ Jesus. He knows God will not leave him and he knows that no matter where he ends up in the future, he will always have God and He will always care for him.

Pray for the children left in the hospital and these other orphanages, especially for their futures. It is so hard for them to transition into the world and so easy for them to fall into a cycle of drugs, alcoholism and pregnancy, which just puts more children in the orphanages.

Pray that these kids could have a hope to live for like Vova, not fearing their lives beyond the orphanage walls. Pray that Jesus would be their one constant.

Katie Courtney

God opens doors in Russia

Last week the team spent time at the orphanage Lopukhinka, about an hour and a half from the city. This was an orphanage that was not in our original plan, but the Lord closed doors and opened this wonderful opportunity to go Lopukhinka. This was the first time that the orphanage had had a team come in. Furthermore, it was the first time that most of these kids as well as the caregivers had heard the gospel. We were not bringing God to these children, He was already there, but He used us as His instruments to love on the children and help them recognize His presence in their lives.

The children ranged from about seven to 17 years old. Our first day there we brought backpacks and supplies for those that were graduating and would need assistance when they leave the orphanage and enter into a new place. Originally the plan was to visit this orphanage for one day, and return to Orphanages 40 and 14, but as the day carried on, God's plans began to form. The director at Lopukhinka wanted us to stay at the orphanage with the children for the entire next week. As a team, options were considered and we decided that God wanted us in this place. Monday morning our bags were packed and we returned to Lopohinka for a week of Vacation Bible School and some hang out time with the children.

When we arrived to Lopukhinka on Monday, many of the younger kids came running out, wanting to help us carry in all of our bags! The transformation of so many of the kids, especially the older graduates was incredible--at the beginning of the week--cold, standoffish, disinterested, and aloof to anything we had to say, but by the end of the week, they were begging us to stay, with hugs and tears. Their interest in VBS increased and changed throughout the week. Their questions began more as facts about the Scripture and turned into questions about God's love and grace. On Wednesday during VBS, the parable was told about Jesus healing the men with leprosy. As the story was being told one of the graduates, 17-year-old Jenya, ask a question about the men that did not return to thank Jesus for healing them. He asked if the ones that had not returned to thank Jesus would be healed again if their illness returned. Discussion arose about forgiveness and about how we can come to rest in Christ's presence daily and that His love has no limits.

As the week came to a close, the kids were making crafts, necklaces, bracelets, and they soon began to give these gifts to us. They have photo albums in their classrooms and so many of the kids were looking through those albums to give us all pictures to ensure that we would not forget them. I think all the interns can agree that these kids have made imprints on our hearts--where pictures may one day fade, our experience there will not. We are certain that God will continue to work in this orphanage and we are confident that God will continue to place people in their lives that will continue to pray and love and talk to these kids.


Katie Courtney

Pictures from Guatemala

Three boys that live at San Gabriel. Walter, Eduardo, and Hector. They are all brothers. They did not like to take pictures together, that is why Walter is making a face!

Us on our way to the top of the volcanoe! It was named Pacaya.

Eric, Berta-Maria, Wilson, and Vladimir, the men are follow up staff for Buckner for San Gabriel. They go to San Gabriel Monday through Friday and hang out with the boys, and talk about Jesus with them, and in general just make relationships with them. Berta is the in country staff that has been with us on our trip for the past week and a half. She is a great help!

From hellos to goodbyes in Guatemala

This week, the interns and I worked with a team from Tallahassee First Baptist Church. This team was an amazing team, and they were really eager to share the gospel with all of the children that I have come to love so much. We worked in San Gabriel every afternoon from Sunday though Friday. With the team, we also worked in a community center for two mornings, the Buckner Baby Home, the Boys and Mothers Transitional Homes for two mornings and on Friday morning we worked at Fundaninas, a privately funded orphanage. At Fundaninas six girls decided to give their lives to Jesus. They said they didn't want to just read about Jesus and learn about him anymore, they wanted to have him in their lives! How EXCITING is that? We were all so thrilled!

The FBCT team and the interns and I all helped to do a youth camp at San Gabriel this week. The pastor of the church helped lead the Bible study portion of the camp. They talked about how God handles fear and if you have Jesus, you don't have to fear. There was also a portion for memorization of a memory verse which was lead by Clint, one of the guys on the team. The boys really participated well during the memory verse and I hope they continue to memorize scriptures. It was a really great week with this team. They loved these boys so much!

This week we also climbed up Pacaya Volcano, and were able to get about five to six feet away from the flowing lava. A few members of the team from Tallahassee joined us instead of going to Antigua with the rest of the team to go shopping. It was a hard hike up the mountain, but it was worth it. Today was a hard day. The interns and I welcomed a new team from East Main Christian Church in Indiana, and we went to San Gabriel this afternoon. This was our last day at San Gabriel. As I was leaving and giving all the boys hugs and telling them they were my friend I would miss them, Angel, an older boy with special needs living at the home, came and told me in English, "Thank you for being my friend." He gave me a hug, and in Spanish told me he would never forget me, and another boy, Juan Carlos, started to tear up a little bit.

I cannot describe how much I love these boys and I cannot believe today was our last day with them. I desperately want salvation for all of them so they can know the love of Christ in their lives. Today the interns and I were all sad to leave the boys, and when we went home, we started praying for the kids. We asked God to use the seeds the teams and we planted during our time with them and to bring them salvation. I am going to miss these boys so much! Pray for them. Pray that they would accept Christ into their lives!This week we are going to Zacapa, which is about four hours away from Guatemala City. We are going with the East Main team to do ministry there for three days, and then we will return and go to Manchen for a day. Be praying for our teams for safety as we travel and for our ministry to the orphans that live in Zacapa. Pray that their hearts would be open to our message and that they would accept Christ as their savior. God is so good to provide us a way to his son; I am so thankful for Him in my life, and I pray that these orphans would know the love of their heavenly father as well! I will update with pictures soon!

For now, hasta luego!

Amy

You gotta love Kenya!

In the same day we smelt popcorn, which is unexpected driving down the streets of Nairobi, and we saw a camel going down the road. I will have to say it has been quite the adventure and we are all learning and growing through it all.

The safari was so much fun. We saw most everything except rhinos and hippos. We had an awesome jeep and did some crazy off-roading. We saw a leopard in a tree, and from what we hear, seeing a leopard is pretty uncommon. It was nice to be pampered and fed extremely well for a couple of days. Also, a team with Buckner was on the safari with us. It was nice to hang out with some other people and talk about our experiences.

Today, instead of going to BCC, when went to a place called New Life Home. It is a home for abandoned newborns. Most of them arrive HIV positive, but around 90 percent turn out to be negative after being on their nutritional and medical program. It was so much fun to be there. The babies are so full of life and a joy to be with. We all had such a great time loving on the babies. And one particular baby certainly loved me. She loved me enough to vomit all over my legs. I just laughed it off. It wasn't the first time it has happened.

On Sunday, we had lunch at Tony's house. He is the man who runs the BCC. It was so great to be with him and his family again. We had a great conversation with him about the center and his vision for it. We really were able to understand some of the currents needs at the BCC and understand where he wants to take this place.

Well, while it seems like we have been here forever, we also can't believe our time here is almost through. Next week I will try to fill in as many details as I can since that will be our last post.

Greetings from Kenya,

Kristin

¡Hóla, Qué tal! Guatemala

A few interesting things have happened here in Guatemala in the last couple of days. One, our water completely went out at the place we are staying so we used buckets of well water to wash with. It was pretty hilarious. We tried to take a picture, but decided it wasn't good to do that, so we didn't. Then, we were in an earthquake, that’s right, an EARTHQUAKE! We were in Antigua, sitting down to lunch with the team from Park Cities Baptist Church, and the whole building began to shake and blow. It was really weird, and being from Texas, I don't have a lot of experience with earthquakes. We kind of freaked out a little bit, and asked our translators what it was, we really had no idea what was going on. One of them said the volcano might be active, and then another one said it was probably some seismic activity. Well it turns out, it was an earthquake. So in the same day, I bathed with well water and was in an earthquake! Kind of cool, huh?

Last week we worked with Park Cities Baptist Church, where we went into San Gabriel three days and worked with the boys; we also went to Manchen, the government all girls home for two days. There we met some girls, who were so sweet and loving. It really strikes me how when we ask what we can pray for the kids about, they never pray for themselves; they always want to pray for their families and other girls, but never for themselves. I have really learned a lot about how much I pray for myself instead of others from these girls. I really loved going to the all girls home. One girl taught me how to make a really cool bracelet while I was there, out of the strings the PCBC team brought for the kids to use during craft time. This girl had a really hard exterior, she looked kind of rough and she was very standoffish at first. But when I asked her to teach me how to make what she was making, she opened up to me, and really attempted to talk to me, even though we couldn't understand everything the other was saying. When it was time to leave, she asked for something to remember me by, and I told her that I was coming back again and I would bring her something the next time I came. She was really happy to hear I was coming back and I'll be excited to see her again!

The past few days, the interns and I have not had a team with us, so we had a free day for most of yesterday, where we went to Antigua and had a picnic at this gorgeous park. Then we went shopping for a bit and went to "La Union." This is the name of the language school where we will stay for an extra week to have intensive Spanish lessons the week after our internship is over. We will be staying in Antigua, Guatemala another week. We are SO excited! Above is a picture of our intern team with Berta-Maria (a Buckner in-country staff) at the park.

We also went to the Buckner Baby Home on Friday, with just us, so we were able to really play with the kids, and not overwhelm them with 30 people. There are only nine kids living in the home. We were able to unpack our Humanitarian Aid bags, and I was able to give out most of my supplies to these kids, the playdough, the kitchen toys, the hotwheels cars, they loved them! Thank you all so much for helping me fill my bag with wonderful presents that these kids LOVED so much! Above are some pictures of the kids so that you can see what all we gave them, and how much they loved them!

We made them a cake, and yeah, it kind of didn't work that well, it sort of just fell in on itself in the middle, which pushed the sides out. I was the one holding the cake, so it was a problem. But it was fun when we got there with the cake, the kids didn't care; they were just excited to see the cake. They jumped up and down and were so sweet. Above are some pictures from the Buckner Baby Home, and the messed-up cake. You will also find a picture of our team at the picnic, some pictures of the boys from San Gabriel and the girls from Manchen.

Yesterday we welcomed a team from First Baptist Church Tallahassee. They are a group with only a few youth, and mostly older retired couples and even their pastor is here. We are so excited to work with them and to share the gospel and the love of Christ with the children here in Guatemala. This morning FBCT had their own church service at the Quinat Real hotel, and we participated. They shared their heart for Guatemala's children with us and we are so excited to see the work God is going to do through them this week; they are excited too! We are going to be at San Gabriel all week, and we are all excited! As much as I loved going to Manchen, my heart really lies with the boys at San Gabriel. I love them. Be praying for the boys at San Gabriel that they would be open to our message and God's love, and that they would accept Jesus as their savior! I'm excited!

¡Hasta Luego!

Amy

Hands and Feet of God - Romania - week 2

Jeff's speech on not messing up Buckner's good reputation came to my mind this morning at breakfast. It was either the first or second time that we ate breakfast at the hotel when the waitress inquired whether or not we were from Buckner; in which we replied with an emphatic "yes!" She introduced herself as Judith. It is nice having a foreign friendly face greet you first thing in the morning. This morning she brought pictures of her daughter to work so that we could see them. It was so sweet! Tomorrow morning we are going to show her pictures of our families. All I can say is thank you, to all previous interns for setting a godly example!

We've spent so much time the past several days working in two different group homes. In the mornings, we go to Ceauas special needs home that houses 12 young children. They are all unique. We've been bitten, hit, scratched, spit on, slobbered on, jumped on, pulled, pushed, hair has been ripped out, etc. Enduring all of this is for the glory of Christ. The caregivers enjoy our company as much as the children. In the afternoons, we are in special needs group home for older kids. We've only been there twice; so, we are still in the process of getting to know them.

Last night we got to experience an authentic Romanian meal. Alison and Melanie went to Cristina's home for dinner; Chris and I went to the home of Rares, a Buckner volunteer, for dinner. Last night was the best meal I've had since I've been here and the hospitality is remarkable.

On Sunday, we attended our first Romanian church service. It was quite long. Cristina translated for us. Throughout the service, I was comparing my church back home to the service I was experiencing at the moment, and this is what I discovered: We don't express even a fraction of the passion that the Romanian people were pouring out before the Lord. I was in awe. They spend a lot of time in prayer – they were a refreshing Christian example.

Every morning we meet Cristina and Rares in the lobby of the hotel to do devotions. Cristina shared about what it is like being a Christian in Romania. Communism fell when she was five, but during communism all churches were destroyed. Christians met for worship in people's homes. They had to keep quiet because if the neighbors heard what they were doing they would call the police. Cristina related that people were bolder about their faith when they were under communism than they are now under freedom. Now they don't have to make a stand, they can just be.

Things haven't worked out the way that we had planned or been told that they would, but we are being flexible and realizing that we are the "equipment!"

We've realized that on this specific trip that we are to be the hands and feet of Jesus, not the mouth!

Kenya - Week 2

Thank you for all of your prayers. Some of you know that Melissa and I have not been feeling our best, but we both stayed behind a day and are feeling much better. We are ready for our safari.
It has been great working at the BCC, but it can become somewhat overwhelming being at the same place everyday. The safari will be a good break for us to renew and re-energize.
I believe that Nairobi is a different Africa than we expected. There is so much need here that it seems just overwhelming and hopeless at times. There is one thing though: God is not smaller than all of this and he is definitely at work here. He has opened up some new ministry opportunities that we’re all excited about. We are going to spend some time in Buckner's school ministry in the Korogocho slum area, which we are all excited about. God has tugged all our hearts in a certain place at the Korogocho school.
Carla's sewing ministry is going really well. The girls are all still shy, but loving working with Carla. It has really been an encouragement to the girls and to us. God has also opened up some opportunity to possibly help these girls make and sell their items. We ask for your continued prayer for this ministry.
Since we get back in the early evening, we have to find ways to entertain ourselves. We have played many games of UNO (thanks Jeremy), quizzed each other on Trivial Pursuit, and had many conversations. Last night, a lady at the place we are staying invited us to watch a movie with her in her room. That was such a good time for us. We have really been encouraged by the people we have met here where we are staying.
Well, next week we will let you know how the safari and things go. Again, thanks so much for the prayers.
Sending much love from Kenya,
Kristin

Blessings from Guatemala

Well, today was our team's tenth day in Guatemala. I feel like we have been here so much longer. My time spent with the orphans here is amazing!

We had our farewell dinner with the team from Arkansas this last Friday, and then we welcomed a new team of youth from Park Cities Baptist Church. We have been going to San Gabriel, the all boys government orphanage, with them for the past three days. The interns and I agree, this is our new favorite place to go. These kids are so fun and amazing! The team from Park Cities Baptist Church had prepared different Bible studies for the kids and crafts for them to do each day, so we have been in groups doing the devotionals, crafts and sports with the team and the kids.

Today was an especially good day at San Gabriel! Meredith, one girl from Park Cities Baptist Church was leading a devotional with a group of boys about Zacheus. We talked with the boys about what it is like to talk to Jesus, how Jesus loves even the people that we think are the worst and that we dislike, and how Jesus can change our lives completely. The boys really participated and listened well to the story during devotional, and I was so excited. They had a lot of feedback in their answers.

One boy, named Nery, who has really been interested during Bible time, seemed even more interested today. He said it made him happy that we could talk to God anytime we wanted to, and that God loved us.

Be praying for Nery, that he will be aware of his need for a savior and that he will accept Christ! Above there is a picture of him and Emily. The interns and I, along with the team from Park Cities, went to church at Iglesia Bautista "La Verdad" these past two days, participated in a youth program with them on Saturday night, and went to Sunday school and their church. They allowed Pike, the youth pastor at Park Cities Baptist Church to preach this morning, where he taught about unity in the body of Christ. We were all really excited to hear the message and realize that we are all worshiping and serving the same God. During Sunday school we split up into groups and talked back and forth with the Guatemalans in the church, and discussed Genesis 10. Tomorrow the interns and I are going with the Park Cities Baptist Church team to Antigua, where we will go into Manchen, the all girls home. Pray for our time there with the girls – that we would be able to minister the love of Christ to them, and that God would work in their hearts.

I am so excited to continue in our work here and be part of working with the orphans in Guatemala! They have been such a blessing in my life already, and they have brought me so much joy!

Talk with you soon! Adios!

Amy

Здраствуйте (Hello in Russian!)

We arrived in St. Petersburg safely after a long night of traveling and made our way to the shelter, which we call our home base.

Sunday we spent the day organizing our supplies for the week that we would spend at the orphanage in Tikhvin. Monday morning we left about 8:00 a.m. for a four and a half hour bus ride through the countryside in Russia.

Upon our arrival, we headed to the orphanage in the mid-afternoon. The kids at Tikhvin range from 8-years-old up to 16-year-old graduates. We spent the first afternoon having Vacation Bible School with the kids and playing and running around with them. Throughout the week we all fell in love with the kids we were working with.

Through free time in the morning and vacation bible school we got to know each of these unique children – all with their own story and background. We poured our hearts upon them and loved them every moment that we were in their presence.

During free time we were able to set up soccer games, baseball, volleyball, make bracelets and necklaces, jump rope, and of course...bubbles!

For many of us, language is a barrier, but the ability to communicate is not only verbal...with a hug, a smile, or playing a game, we were never at a loss for communiation. We are all learning that God is in the simple things, for us and for these kids. Watching some of the kids with hard hearts when we walked in on Monday was a challenge, but through the power of prayer and the work of the Spirit, God has softened these beautiful hearts. The kids quickly took interest in VBS and what we were doing there.

This orphanage had never had a group come in and work with them before. God had already prepared this orphanage and the children for us before we arrived.

And after leaving today, we know that the Lord will remain at the Tikhvin orphanage.

We are back in St. Petersburg for the weekend. Tomorrow we will be working in Hospital number 15, see some of St. Petersburg, and next week we will go to orphanage number 2.

Thank you all for your prayers and support on this trip. Tthe week has been amazing and we are eagerly awaiting what God has been preparing for us in the next three weeks.

Katie Courtney

Buná from Romania!

We timed it – we traveled for 26 consecutive hours. Anca and Christina picked us up at the airport in Budapest. We weren't in the van for more than ten minutes and we got to witness a two lane road accommodating three vehicles.

We are getting a lot of practice at being flexible – several times a day, in fact. The first three days were hectic. We drove to a cabin three hours away with 17 kids in tote. This eclectic bunch of kids encompassed gypsies, Romanians, and Hungarians.

I was not out of the van for more than five minutes and a little girl, Monica, clasped her hand in mine; and in that moment she stole my heart. I realized how much I have to learn from children. Monica taught me how to count to ten in Romanian.

I didn't know how to say "good job" in Romanian, so I would just give the kids a “thumbs up.” At first, they had no idea what I was doing or what it meant. On the second day, I gave a little boy a “thumbs up” and he gave me one back. He finally realized what it meant. It was an exciting moment!

We visited a group home that housed 12 special needs children. Christina gave us brief background on some of the children in the home.

One child was found locked in a cage with dogs. She sniffs everything.

Another child was found locked in a cage with pigs. These two children, when left alone, would just sit there and rock back and forth, which is just a classic result of a child who has been neglected and/or abused.

All of the children have severe physical and mental needs. I spent most of my time with a little blind girl. She would imitate everything you would say. She imitated me in perfect English. I sang "This is the Day" to her and she would sing it back to me. We would be sitting in silence and then she would just start singing it all by herself. The amazing part is that when she would start singing it by herself, she would sing it in Romanian and with me she sang it in English.

The Beginnings of God's Blessing in Kenya

All three of us are still trying to process everything we have seen the past few days. We came over here thinking we were the ones who were doing the serving and were proud of what we are doing, but we all have been truly humbled.

We have been served in so many ways. The staff at the place we are staying serve us at every meal and pray for us. The staff at BCC serves us, and the girls in the sewing class have made us feel more than welcome. Our driver is an amazing, humble and sweet-spirited man. He makes us feel so comfortable and really takes our well being seriously. We are blown away by the faith of the people here. Everything is so Christ centered and all they need is God. Material possessions are nothing. It is all about relationships.

At the center, the children are beginning to warm up to us. We spent our first day with the older girls in the sewing class. They took us in as one of their own and taught us how to sew. They are all such amazing girls. They sing and pray together at the end of each day, and it was so encouraging to be apart of that. The staff here at BCC loves the children so deeply. You can just see it in their faces. They are so committed to serving these children.

While our main purpose here is to love the children at BCC, we find ourselves wanting to know the people we pass in the slum everyday. They wave at us and we receive many "how are you's" from the children. The most shocking thing so far about the slum areas is not the amount of poverty – We have all seen media and heard stories about the poverty – It is the normality of it all that gets to us. This is everyday life for these people. There is nothing wrong with it in their eyes. The have their own way of life and community in these slums. It is hard to process and see how we can even help them because the simplicity of their culture is so beautiful.

We are finding out more and more that we are here just as much to serve and love the staff at BCC as the children. We can tell that us being here is an encouragement to them. Today, Melissa and I hung out with the two women who run the clinic; It gets very slow for them sometimes and it was good to encourage them and talk with them.

We pray and ask for your prayers that we all can be at peace and in tune with the Holy Spirit and see an opportunity to serve and love in everything He calls us to.

To sum up our experience so far, I would say that we have been truly humbled and are learning so much from Kenya. We have also had many fun times of driving in the crazy traffic/ditches and potholes and playing football and handball with the kids. The children have such personalities. I have already made two children cry out of terror because they have not seen many white people.

We have also met some amazing people where we are staying. You think a month is long, try 34 years of commitment to this continent. So many people have devoted their lives and sacrificed so much to minister to this place.

We look forward to the rest of the month and cannot believe that so much has happened so far.

Hello from Team Latvia!!

Hello from Team Latvia!

We arrived in Riga June 2 and were able to get rested from the long flight. It was Cynthia's birthday and we celebrated at a delicious restaurant.

We are at the Tervete orphanage now and loving it already. We have the privilege of serving with a team from Tate Springs, Texas, who has previous experience and love for this orphanage. Upon arrival at Tervete, we were welcomed with 'Sam Bradley's Birthday Party' and a huge spread of delicious food.

The freezing cold lake has been the place to hang out during the afternoons with the kids. The stairs to the 4th floor are a challenge to us all, as we walk up and down from our room. The men of the Tate Springs group began construction with the 'help' of many kids, stripping the paint in just a few hours.

It has been fun to try and learn different Latvian phrases and words with help from the kids. Vacation Bible School is going pretty well in the mornings, although the language barrier and energy of the kids has been a challenge.

As we get to know the kids here, I realize how fortunate I am. They have so little, but are so happy! Their humble spirit has challenged me to appreciate the little things in life, from little balloon dogs to seeing their own face in a camera.

The long walk to the lake a few times a day has given me a chance to talk to some of the older kids. I can see how hungry they are for love and attention.

It’s only a few days into the trip and I can already see God moving in our team and in the kids. We have only been here a few days and still have much to experience. Please continue to pray for the team and the kids here at Tervete.

Pray for our humility and unity as a team. Pray that God will use our individual gifts to reach theses kids. Pray for our open spirit and willingness.

HOLA from Guatemala!

We arrived in Guatemala late on Friday night where we were greeted by Vera, a Buckner staff in Guatemala, and José. We spent most of the day on Saturday getting adjusted to Guatemalan life and shopping for groceries and last minute things we needed for our ministry this month. We spent the rest of the day just spending some down time with each other and getting to know our team better.

Today, Sunday, we woke up and welcomed a team of highschool and college age students from Little Rock, Arkansas to the country and proceeded on to church at Casa de Dios. After church we went to my favorite place so far which was at the Buckner Baby Home, where all the children ran to greet us with hugs and kisses when we arrived. They all flocked to us for attention and it was amazing to be able to hug and love on these adorable kids! They were so excited to show us their new shoes also! We got to play with the children for about an hour, before both teams left and went to visit the different transitional housing that Buckner runs. Below you will see some pictures of some of the kids and our intern team playing with them!

We went on to dinner after that and our teams asked the boys and girls from the transitional houses to come and join us for dinner! At dinner, the interns and I had so much fun trying to learn how to make tortillas. We kept dropping our dough and having to start over! I guess we were not as skilled at tortilla making as Guatemalans. At dinner, we were able to talk with some of the girls and boys from the homes, and it was really fun practicing our Spanish with them, as they practiced their English with us. Below is a picture of myself and our team leader making tortillas, and another picture of our team leader, Emily, and Negris, one of the girls living in the transitional home.

I am really excited to continue working with these kids in the Baby Home and the Transitional homes and continue serving alongside the Arkansas team as we get to do God´s work in these orphanages down here in Guatemala! I am excited to see what God will do in each of the kid´s hearts! I know He is going to do a lot of amazing things during our time here!

Amy