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Russian Children Explore Creation
Mud. That's all you saw when looking at the small southern town of Tyrnyauz, Russia. Less than a year ago, mudslides brought houses down and the school was destroyed. OBI's Russian center leader, Yuri Avdeev helped to bring hope back into children in Tyrnyauz as well as across his homeland.
Hundreds of children living in poverty were given the opportunity to hike Russia's forests, breathe fresh air, eat healthy food, learn Bible stories, and test creative skills during numerous OBI supported summer camps last summer. Volunteer counselors led discussions on basic life skills and coordinated competitions involving writing, drawing, sports, and crafts.
While camping near Mt. Elbrus in Southern Russia, victims of the Tyrnyauz mudslides made friends with children who suffered in the Chechnyan conflict. Both groups suffered from malnutrition, which was quickly remedied by good meals and snacks. Many Chechnyan campers had lost their parents and were accompanied by Muslim supervisors. Nonetheless, instructors still taught about the life of Christ and the Old Testament heroes during the 20-day camp!
Traveling north, 116 children spent June 6-28th by the Kazarinka River in Elnya. Equipped with a canteen, bath house, doctor, gymnasium, and sleeping quarters on the first level of a school, the camp provided a safe atmosphere. Volunteers from Moscow's Evangelical Baptist Church served the children through cleaning, cooking, and counseling. Ranging in ages 8-17, campers were divided into teams and were treated to daily Bible study and singing lessons as well as made crafts, and played games. Three healthy meals were served daily and included meat, fish, and dairy products which for all were considered as novelties. "I enjoyed the camp very much," commented a teen camper named Olga. "Everything was organized very well and fun. All the instructors gave us their best."
Countless children and teens worldwide spend their school vacations waiting for parent's to come home from work. Help OBI's Bless-A-Child program provide a safe and fun learning environment for our future leaders!
Make your donation here...
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