It really has been an absolute and utter joy to serve as part of the team again this year. There has been a lot of laughter, a lot of love and life-long friendships made. I can't help but stop smiling when thinking about it. The Lord has been such a key part of it all and we must give our praise and thanks to Him.
The school ended on a high note on Friday with a party atmosphere for the children to recognise that they are invited to God's banquet in the Kingdom of Heaven (Matthew 22). The children got to play pass the parcel, decorate biscuits, received t-shirts with pictures of the theme of the week ('seek ye first the Kingdom of God'), were given bracelets with 'God keeps his promises' and made party hats. The whole week ended off with parade around the school grounds past the medics and some of the parents who had come to meet their children. These children have ended the week full of smiles and knowing that they themselves are loved by God and by the English week. How absolutely wonderful to be a part of.
The community team had a tough week, and mainly because of the weather. Temperatures reached a record 40 degrees and with no air conditioning or swimming pools (how pampered we are back home) there was a constant battle to keep cool and hydrated. This team have a tough job as they are visiting people in the villages and are spending most of the week walking up and down the extremely dusty and uneven roads. The roads here are mainly potholes, and that is no exaggeration. Visits to those in need bring great comfort but sharing the love of God and His message is why we are here. The community team also do a great job of coordinating other teams, providing support to the medical registration and moves, keeping the dentist functioning (thank you for providing us with an electrician this year Lord). They really knit together the individual teams.
The medical team had an excellent week. We had an unprecedented number of medical students who were all excellent. Despite volunteering and working long hours these students were enthusiastic beyond belief! To be able to help in their training brings great joy to the English team. We saw a good number of patients and it's always good to be able to go back and monitor how they are progressing from the previous year. The comment on the students also applies to the dental surgery as hampered by illness, poor electricity in Ukraine and the heat, they were blessed with a Hungarian dentist and student for the week. Praise the Lord!
Finally a big mention should go to the villages themselves. To see a group of people come together in such a team, even with language and culture barriers, is testament to the Lord's loyalty to this Mission. Our host families feed us, give us a place to stay (often giving up their beds for us) and make us such a part of their families for the week. We have also been helped by many of the locals in our teams, we could not do it without them.
As you are aware this Mission is only possible by people from volunteering from England, Hungary and Trans-Carpathia. All that is needed is a willingness to serve the Lord. It truly is my most favourite week of the year and I urge everyone and anyone to pray into whether they want to come. We will be praying that the Lord places on your heart if He wants you to come. Age and skills are not a barrier, He provides everything.
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