Our re-entry into Molochansk and the Mennonite Centre went smoothly, thanks to Rudy and Hildegarde Baerg. We shared 13 significant days getting "up to speed"on projects, with staff and community, all in the sweltering heat. (thank God for ice cream!) When they left on June 2 there were no loose ends. Thanks, Baergs!
We were invited to attend "The Last Bell" at the 2 schools in town. This year the M.C. chose to honour the grads and award winners at the Ukrainian school with small monetary gifts.
As the graduates released helium balloons, the assembled crowd felt various emotions: mothers shed tears, teachers proudly accepted flowers and thanks while all of us celebrated, as one graduating young man carried a First-grader on his shoulders as she rang "the last bell".
The stairs at the Russian school had disintegrated badly. MC paid to have them re-done. Their grads released doves to signify their "leaving" childhood and following their new paths. May each graduate find a path of opportunity that will improve their lives and build the "new" Ukraine.
Our scholarship project continues to help a number of post secondary students realize their dream for an education.
Not all doors lead to happy events. The difficulties of coping with illness and tragedy have not changed in this depressed economy.
Together with Rudy and Hildegarde and our translator, Olga, we listened to the story of a lab technician who needed emergency kidney surgery. Our FOMCU board responded swiftly allowing us to give the necessary funds.
A 25 year old man, father of a 3 year old, dove into the Molochana River and broke his neck.
We are awaiting further news as to his condition. We gave the family the money to be able to transport him to Zaporozhye for proper diagnosis and treatment.
We continue on the path of finding a suitable Ukrainian administrator: someone who will catch the vision of Mennonite Centre, lead the staff in an upright and honest manner and present projects to the N.A. board, directors and supporters. Our hope is to fulfil this task soon.
We suggest that you check www.baergsinukraine.blogspot.com to better connect with the work at MC.
Thanks for your prayers and support, Peggy and Al
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This method of communication makes much sense. Kudos. Perhaps you can give me some tips on setting up my own blog.
Thanks for the updates, photos, and emails.
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