Today was a very full day emotionally, as it was our last day together. Jenni shared her testimony this morning in worship and led the final session of the study through Psalm 106. Many people commented on how meaningful and helpful the study has been.
Alyssa led a session on caring for those experiencing trauma. This was very relevant and impactful, as almost everyone has been impacted by the trauma of the war.
Elie Haddad led our final strategic planning session via Zoom. The KTS team observed how many similarities there are between Lebanon and Ukraine and how the experiences of ABTS are helping them to think about the future of KTS. Pray this partnership continues to develop.
The kids made papel picado banners to represent the fruits of the Spirit, designed paper airplanes, and made bracelets and ‘tie dye’ cards. Two boys, Mark and Andrii, joined in for the first time today and experienced some connection with others. Pray God will work through those interactions.
The building we are meeting formerly housed a Jewish religious school for young men, as well as a rabbinnic library and synagogue. Before WWII, it was reported to be the largest in Europe. After lunch, Roman gave a tour with an in-depth explanation of synagogue worship.
Our dinner was a special celebration meal, and our final worship included:
• a moving testimony from Hannah, who was raised in an unbelieving home until her mom came to faith through seeing the Jesus Film.
• many heartfelt expressions of deep gratitude for this retreat – for the generosity and prayers of people at Faith; for the blessing of good rest in a place with no air raid sirens; for the experience of being heard, cared for, and prayed over; for the refreshment and reminders of God’s love rest they will take back to Kyiv
• beautiful songs written and performed by Elisabeth, KTS multimedia specialist whose worship band is creating new music for the church in Ukraine
• a beautiful and unique gift in stone from KTS to Faith Church based on Jesus’ promise in Rev. 2:17.
• singing “The Blessing” together and to each other in Ukrainian and English as our shared prayer.
We leave tomorrow with hearts full of blessings, joy, and gratitude. Pray for safe travels, and pray especially for our Ukrainian friends as they head back to an active war with many uncertainties.
