With four-wheel drive in gear, the vehicle carried an American construction team through gullies and up a zigzag road to Babaj-Bokes. Home to less than 2,000 people, the mountainous village had endured the terrifying pillage of Serbian troops two years prior. You are in the western side of the Republic of Kosovo (Ko·so·va) -- less than ten miles from the Albanian boarder. Come meet the members of this tight-knit community...

Her home over-looking the valley was ruined by soldiers. Alone and unable to make her house safe, Zi Ze was taken in by neighbors for one to two months at a time. Thanks to an OBI and Hand of Love sponsored 13-member construction team, the elderly woman knew she would soon watch over the valley again. To ensure her house had the full attention of the team, Zi Ze chased curious school children away! Finally, on their own accord, 43 students organized a work line and passed clay roof tiles to the adults. All were kissed on their cheeks, arms, and hands by the toothless Zi Ze!

Attracting much attention, everyone eventually came out to see who would volunteer to help strangers. Moved by the American's love for them, many accepted Christ as Savior, including the village leader!

This was team leader Larry Whalen's third construction trip to Kosovo. "The clouds have lifted (from the people's hearts)," Larry commented. "They're just going on with life."

In addition to pouring a slab of cement, preparing windows, building a roof, and doing finishing floor and ceiling work on Zi Ze's home, the team also worked on three other damaged residences. Logistically and materially supported by Samaritan's Purse, the team was able to begin helping the people of Babaj-Bokes the day after arriving! Three translators broke down the language barrier and helped them build relationships. Team members brought 150 pairs of children's shoes, donated by USA businesses. OBI supplied vitamins and Christian literature.

As summer arrives to Babaj-Bokes (father of the valley), Zi Ze can now enjoy the view. Here in Virginia, a smile spreads across Larry's face while looking over pictures of new friends. With so much accomplished already, he knows there's more to be done just 25 miles north west of Prizren. He will be going back with OBI next year!

HOW YOU CAN HELP
You can help by making an online donation toward OBI's disaster relief efforts. With your support, we can continue to provide emergency relief and recovery. Please make an on-line donation today.

 

------------------------------------------------------------------
Copyright © 1997- 2012 by Operation Blessing International of this page and all contents. No part of this site may be used without prior written consent from OBI. All Rights Reserved. Questions or comments? Email us at operation.blessing@ob.org.