During a twelve day summer camp in southern Ukraine, Vitalik, who has spent the majority of his life living in an orphanage, turned 15 years-old.

Typically in the orphanage the birthdays of children are not celebrated and some kids grow up without ever experiencing a birthday celebration or even knowing the date of their birth. So it was a special evening when the staff of the camp brought Vitalik forward to celebrate his special day. After presenting Vitalik with a special gift, the leaders asked Vitalik if there was anything special he would like to do or say, and to that he responded, "I would like it if I could pray right now, for everyone." Vitalik went on to pray, asking the Lord to bless him in this next year of life, as well as those around him, and praying that the other kids would know the Lord as he did.

Throughout the twelve days, Vitalik and the other youth from two Ukrainian orphanages had days filled with all types of activities. The Life Skills Camp, sponsored in part by Operation Blessing and AGAPE ministries, focused on preparing the youth for life beyond the orphanage walls. Through daily lessons, games, and evening programs, the youth were encouraged to dream about their futures and also think about the challenges they will undoubtedly face.

Each day presented a new theme and through the days’ activities the youth were able to think about different topics, including friendship, social skills, love and romance, and job skills. Through the daily lesson time and evening programs, the leaders were also able to share about the love of Christ and the way to have a personal relationship with him. Some youth, like Vitalik, were encouraged to grow in their faith, while other kids accepted Christ for the first time.

On the last night of camp, the youth and leaders gathered around the campfire to share their favorite memories and take photographs with their new friends. One of the leaders, moved by Vitalik’s profession of faith at the beginning of the camp, asked him about what he enjoyed most about his camp experience. "The fellowship of believers," Vitalik responded. "Living in the orphanage I never get to meet other Christians and learn and grow in my faith like I have this week. I'm really going to miss you guys and being surrounded by other believers. This has been one of the best weeks ever."

Thanks to the support of Operation Blessing and AGAPE ministries, youth like Vitalik were able to be prepared with valuable life skills they will need once exiting the orphanage; and more importantly encouraged with the transforming love of Jesus.

If you want to help this person, please, contact Operation Blessing Ukraine at OB.Partners.ua@cbn-cis.org

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