While one door has been closed to do what we'd planned for the summer program at the orphanage, a new door has been opened in the Sambir Juvenile Colony. Open Arms has been visiting the prison for over almost 2 years and we have always had a desire to be able to bring more ministry to the whole prison and bring Love to more of the boys there. The assistant chief of the prison gave us an instant green light when we asked if we could bring a team in for a couple of days and they are very open to whatever program we bring in.
We will be bringing in our a small team of Ukrainians to run a 2-day program. Relay races, basketball and volleyball tournaments, discussion groups, worship concerts and sharing the grace of God are all a part of what we will be doing for with the 127 boys residing in the Sambir Juvenile Colony. At our last visit with Sasha Pevniv, he shared with us about how many of the teenage boys there have no one who visits. Our prayer is that these young men will be able to receive a tangible expression God's love and grace, as we have been blessed to share individually with Sasha every month when we visit.
An opportunity like this is something that many ministries work years for. The reality of this part of our trip is that it won't be cheap. Sambir is on the opposite side of Ukraine from where Sumy is and our team will take a 17 hour train to get there. There will be hotel stays and many other expenses that we didn't anticipate when planning a camp. We are also hoping to provide an extra special meal for the boys while we are there. The total cost of these days of ministry will cost over $1000. This is a chance for you to be a part of a truly special opportunity! If you would like to donate to this specific work in the prison, you can give by mail or through our website. Please note in your check or by email of how you would like your donation to be used.
openarmsministry@gmail.com * PO Box 277, San Lorenzo, CA 94580
