Summer Camp Report from Ukraine
Greetings from the Bible Church of Hostomel!
We would like to share with you the blessing of organizing a day camp for children. This is already the third summer camp since the Biblical Church of Hostomel began its activities in 2022 after the de-occupation of Hostomel. The camp lasted for 5 days, from July 2nd to July 6th.
We had three age groups of children and teenagers. In the morning, there were preschoolers aged 4-6 (20-25 children) and children aged 7-12 (80-90 children). After lunch, the program was for teenagers aged 13-18 (40-50 people).
The camp had a sports focus: every day, the children learned a new sport, including volleyball, soccer, ultimate frisbee, and baseball. Additionally, there were workshops, Bible stories, and group prayers.
We are pleased that the camp is not just a one-time project but a continuation of our work with these age groups. Last season (2023-2024), we held weekly sessions for preschoolers where they learned English and craft.
Children visited the “Avana” Club on Saturdays. For young people, there were small groups, ultimate frisbee training, and a Teen Club.
On the last day of the camp, we had a closing program in our church building, and many children, along with their parents, stepped into our church for the first time.
Egor’s Story:
Egor, a 10-year-old who moved to Hostomel from Kherson in 2022. His sincerity and joyful spirit were evident throughout the camp. After camp he attended our Sunday gathering for the first time, he sang wholeheartedly and listened to the sermon. At the time of post-gathering conversations, tea, and shared camp memories he suggested to have a group prayer and started to pray first, it was a beautiful moment.
Youth Leadership:
It’s encouraging to see some teenagers wearing leadership shirts and assisting during the children’s program. Many of them joined our weekly youth meetings after attending the camp last year. Their involvement in ministry is a testament to our church’s impact and a hopeful sign for the growth of our leadership team.
Parent Engagement:
Building relationships with parents was a goal for this year’s camp. The parent lounge with coffee and refreshments allowed parents to observe our work with their children. Additionally, we organized two seminars on parenting and the time management, attended by around 10 parents each. The final day took place in our church building, where parents were invited. We believe these efforts strengthen connections and open doors for sharing the Gospel. Let’s pray that our church to be filled with families.
Prayer Requests:
Pray for the seeds sown during the camp to bear fruit in the hearts of both children and parents.
Consider opening a children’s day center as a new form of family ministry.
In late August, we are planning to organize an off-site camp for youth along with other new churches.
With love in Christ,
The ministry team of the Bible Church of Hostomel
