Friday we attended the traditional "last ring of the bell" at the internat. It was held outside and was a very beautiful ceremony. The graduates were given special honor and we were priveleged to be able to attend-----not just to be with V but to experience something so unique to Ukrainian culture. All over Kyiv we saw students wearing their sashes and carrying flowers.
Saturday we attended the actual graduation ceremony. As each graduate received their diploma, the Director spoke about what each child would be doing afterward and what they would be studying. The Director was very kind to V as she spoke of how he would soon be joining a real family and would have the chance to continue his education in the United States. V smiled during the whole speech.
The kids were all happy to be finished with their studies at the internat but there was an underlying sadness for those who, unlike V, do not have the hope of a family. The future is not bright for these kids. Please pray for them. There were only 14 leaving this particular orphanage, but all over Ukraine today, 16 year old children will be leaving the only security they have ever known to face a life for which they are not prepared.
In God's sovereign and perfect plan we had a driver/translator today who has a ministry to orphans and street children. We are excited that God sent him to us and we look forward to finding ways to partner with him. We will be attending our first Ukrainian church service with him and his wife tomorrow.
The photo is of our son and his 2 best friends. One of them has a family hoping to adopt him. The other (on the left) is a kind, precious boy who faces an uncertain future. Please pray for him.
1 comment:
Suz,
Love the pictures and the post!
Can't wait to hear about the days ahead.
Love,
Cathy
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