Feb. 2022 – I'm in Ukraine!

Friends, family, kind strangers – your prayers have POWER!

First, this is just a quick note to let you know that I’ve arrived safe and sound and happy in my new home in Uzhhorod, Ukraine! Thanks to the countless prayers you all rallied for me travel was beautifully seamless, the border crossing was simple, and I arrived more eager than ever.

I was greeted at the airport in Budapest by two of my dear Ukrainian friends, they brought me across the border and to my short-term rental late on Tuesday night. The jet lag struggle has been REAL and unfortunately, my sleeping schedule is still a mess. But other than that, these first few days have been so sweet and full of worship. 

Here is a picture of me on my flight weeping over the goodness of the Father…

I know a big concern around this move has been in regards to the conflict at the Russian/Ukrainian border, and as I expected, life is business as usual and thriving here in Uzhhorod! As a reminder, we are on the far west side of the country – about as far from the conflict as I can get and still be in Ukraine!

I do have a plan in place if things with the conflict turn worse, but I am safe and so happy with my decision to move forward with my plans here!

A couple praise reports…

• I found an apartment! My hunt for a long-term rental was successful and God gifted me with a beautiful new apartment with a view. And it is just one building away from an American friend and just a short walk away from Clinton and Lena with Shade for Children! It really is the perfect place and within budget, such a blessing. I move in on Tuesday! 

• We got a positive response from a local orphanage about me becoming a regular volunteer! This is BIG and would give us a more regular presence with the children, I did not expect something like this to happen so quickly! Pray that we will get a similar response from the other orphanages. 

I haven’t had to opportunity to visit any of the children yet due to a few positive Covid cases within the orphanage. Praying this week I will be able to go see some of the sweet faces I’ve grown to know and love! I’m also hoping to set up a rhythm to volunteer at the baby hospital to help care for abandoned babies. 

As these doors open for me to be able to spend more time with the children, I will need to consider how I manage my capacity with my “other” work. The work that pays me. I’d like for my priority to be on time with the children and building out a ministry here. In order for that to be a reality, I’ll need to raise about $1500 in monthly financial support! Right now I have about $400-$700 in monthly support. If you are able, I ask that you pray and consider joining me and this incredible team of people as a financial supporter! In all honesty, USD can go a long way here so please know every little bit helps. 

If you feel led to support this mission financially – here is how I’m directing my funds right now:

• Saving for a vehicle – $5000 – Many of the orphanages are outside of the city, meaning anywhere from 20 - 90 min commutes. I’m praying for a good vehicle to become available and for the funds to make the purchase when it does. I want to be able to make a commitment to these orphanages and children and always follow through on those!

• Ukrainian Language Lessons – $150/Month – I hired a wonderful tutor so I can finally make some progress on this very difficult language! My goal is to be conversational by June … which is very aspirational, but I’m motivated. 

I am so overwhelmed by your support and love over the past week! I love hearing from you and please know I am praying for each of you! Please let me know if there are any specific ways I can be directing my prayers. Thank you Thank you Thank you!

with love,

Lina