Living in Hope

Living in Hope

Having met many different people in various situations in the past few weeks, we repeatedly encounter individuals who rise above circumstances, giving of themselves to make life better for the people around them.

Just last week we had the privilege of meeting Ina and Vlodya, a middle-aged couple who have opened their home and their hearts to four orphaned siblings.  Initially they planned to adopt a young girl from the orphanage.  They discovered she had three siblings, one of whom was still in a hospital in eastern Ukraine.  After several trips to the hospital, they managed to secure permission for him to come to Zaporizhzhia and then proceeded to adopt all four siblings.  With the financial support from Mennonite Centre they are now renovating their home to accommodate their large family.  Their love and compassion for these children, who had experienced the death of both their parents, was evident.      

Another couple in Zaporozhzhia has also opened their home to others in need, but in a very different way.  They were former addicts, but have left that lifestyle behind, having experienced the love of God.  Every Friday evening they welcome others into their small apartment living room.   They enjoy a time of singing, sharing, and eating together, providing encouragement for one another.

Sergei  Lokotkov, director of the Tokmak Music School, was summoned to report for military service.  When he reported, however, he was told that he was not needed at this time.  We were so thankful to hear that, because he directs a music school of 270 students, conducts the choral group Rhapsody, and has frequently provided free concerts at various community events for seniors, church groups, women’s day celebrations, etc.  With so much stress in this country because of the threat of war, challenging political and economic conditions, the power of music is undeniable.  He generously shares his musical talents.

Another individual who was called to report for military service, but did not have to go, is Vladimir, a soccer coach from the war-torn area of Donetsk.  He, with his young family, fled to Tokmak.   He has a heart for children and youth and is concerned for their well-being.  He has founded a soccer school, because as he says:  “investing in children means investing in the future”.  Since September the enrollment has grown from 40 to 200.  Observing the indoor soccer practice of a group of seven-year olds, it was evident they were not only learning great soccer skills but having a lot of fun doing so.  When Vladimir describes the conditions in the war-torn region, easy access to weapons and areas littered with land mines, one is all the more impressed with his ability to live in hope and serve his community.