Ukraine

Ukraine is an incredible country full of history and pride. Remnants of the former Soviet Union can still be found throughout the country, and Kiev just celebrated 1500 years of existence. However there is much poverty, and a tremendous need of the Gospel in this country. GYM has been sending teams to Ukraine since 2002, and we anticipate sending many more teams in the months and years to come.

Leanne & Arkadiy (Missionaries in area working with GYM)

In the story of the talents Jesus conveys the principle that those who are faithful with small things will be put in charge of greater things. (Matt 25:21) Leanne and Arkadiy Barvinska have been working in the heart of Kiev, Ukraine with inner city kids that have no hope or future. The stories of the children in the orphanage are shocking as many have been abandoned or abused by their parents, while others have seen their parents murdered right in front of them. Many of these children bare the scars of self-inflicted wounds, and all of them carry emotional scars. Jesus came to earth to literally bare these scars for these little children, and for eight years now Leanne (recently married to Archady) has been administering God's healing touch, and sharing the glorious Good News of Jesus Christ. This to be sure is no small thing, but they have been faithful in this area, and as they continue to work with orphans God has placed specific 'great things' on their hearts.

Planting a church:
There is a growing town outside of Kiev that has no protestant church at all. Now is specifically a strategic time to buy land and plant a church in this area. It is Archady's and Leanne's wish to plant and support a church in this area.

Adopting children:
They have already adopted one little boy 'Zhenya' and are in the process of adopting another little girl. They wish to adopt many more children with no hope, and practically give them a hope and a home.

Send a team to developing community: This is a great opportunity for GYM to partner with them specifically with a STM team.

The words 'Greater Things' raced through my head as I met with this incredible couple, and as God continues to use them in this area I believe God will continue to expand their territory, and build His kingdom.

"The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, for He has anointed me to preach the Good News to the poor. He has sent me to proclaim that the captives will be released, that the blind will see, that the downtrodden will be freed from their oppressors, and that the time of the Lord's favor has come." Luke 4:18-19

Visit their website: http://www.freewebs.com/ukrainestreetkids