In 1994 we came to Ukraine as missionaries for the Baptist Missionary Association of America (BMMA). We lived a bit more than three years in the Crimea region of Ukraine in the very south of the country before we realized we needed to be closer to an airport for Jeff's work in other countries. In 1997 we moved to Bucha, located just outside the capital. We joined the Bethany Church and this lovely group of young people at that time were all young kids. It's been our joy to watch them grow up for the last 17 years that we've been in this church. This was a recent meeting (September) that they do monthly. Jeff spoke to them that night about conflict, a topic of importance for all people. As we approach our 20th year (2014) we don't know how long God has planned for us here, but we do know that we are so privileged to be a part of the lives of this group. This is the future of the church and I know they will make a great future for Bethany Church.
Beautiful group of young people! Joe and I used to be in the "young adult" SS class! :) We still joke about our class being called this - But it is kind of hard when the majority of the folks in there are between 50 and 60!!! My, that seems younger every day!
ReplyDeleteBlessings,
Ava
Thanks for the comments!