penza summer 2007... penza summer 2007... penza summer 2007... penza summer 2007...

Updates

Tuesday, July 31st - On the last full day in Penza, the team traveled a couple of hours to a "preyut". A preyut is a type of temporary orphanage where kids live while the social department tries to work with their families to create a stable home environment that they can return to. The preyut also offers day camp activities for town kids, focusing on topics such as anti-drug messages. There were eight stations of fun and everyone had a great time. On the day the team departed, they were able to spend time with Fireworks youth at an indoor go-cart track. Being the first time behind the wheel of any vehicle for many of them made for a lot of laughs! The whole team and all their luggage made it to Atlanta on Monday, the 30th, but after dashing through the Atlanta airport for the connecting flight, team members waved goodbye to their luggage as it sat on the tarmac by the departing plane. No worries, as the luggage followed a few hours later. Thanks to everyone for your prayers during a great trip of seeing God's glory in multiple ways!

Friday, July 27th - Wednesday and Thursday the team had the privilege of spending time at an orphanage for children with mental disabilities. The program was much the same as at the other orphanage. The joy of the kids was indescribable. There was much laughter, fun, and hugs all around. God blessed the team through the kids more than you can imagine.

Wednesday, July 25th - The last two days were spent at a special needs orphanage full of wonderful kids. We did feet washing and hand massages, played a lot of games, made crafts, watched a movie, and indulged in plenty of candy and ice cream. The team is composed of Russian and American believers and includes many Russian young people who were raised in orphanages themselves. It was a time of experiencing many of God's blessings through his very special creations.

Saturday, July 21st - A group of Fireworks youth and the team took a long ride to Samara in the neighboring region this week to visit an indoor water park and McDonalds. It was a great day of fun and bonding. The second part of the team arrived in Penza with no problems. Today and tomorrow are planning days as we prepare for spending the week in three different special needs orphanages.

Monday, July 16th - God did wonderful things with the Fireworks youth during the week of camp. Many shared their dreams and relationships were deepened.

Sunday, July 8th - The team got to witness the baptism of several Fireworks youth in a special ceremony, then be part of a celebratory lunch. The missing suitcase has found its way to Penza. Much of the day was spent with final packing and preparation for the week-long camp that begins tomorrow.

Friday, July 6th - The team spent yesterday transporting gear to the campsite. Today will be more preparation for the camp of 100 people that will begin on Monday. An especially special blessing is the help being given by some of the Fireworks youth as they give back to the ministry.
PM - The team set up tents and dug outhouses, all while being eaten alive by insects! Everyone is looking forward to a great week of God at work in the camp next week.

Wednesday, July 4th - The team has all arrived safely in Penza and gotten settled into host apartments. All supply bags made it and all but one personal suitcase made it. the next two days will be spent setting up the campsite.