All smiles, children at the VBS church camp pose for the camera with their new Bibles.

Dr. Summey's ministry involvement in Ukraine prompted an investigative trip in 2005 to learn how short-term missions might meet needs in that country. Since that time, Paul has led five trips to Ukraine, and more are planned.  Work in Ukraine includes assistance to VBS church camps and children's outreach events.  Orphans, street kids, churched and unchurched youth alike, eagery await the visiting teams and camp activities every summer.  The people are open and receptive to the Gospel and hungry for the Word of God.

Alcholism and drug addiction are pervasive in Ukraine, as the country struggles to emerge from the communist era.  However, as a society with less wealth and relatively less dependency on technology, Ukrainians rely much more on imagination, creativity, music and drama.  If you were to see these kids receiving their own copy of the Bible at camp, you'd think they won the lottery!

Many American Ukrainians are able to assist HIM with mission coordination and interpretation.  Liliya Chernous, who grew up a believer under Soviet oppression, remembers the underground services her family would hold and the persecution that took place before freedom arrived.  With a heart for her home country, she recognizes a need for spritual leadership as well as a need to instill a solid moral foundation among the youth.  She explains, "They need to be given that torch of faith.  I want to impact them with purpose of life for Jesus, help them to be strong and survive for Jesus and do the same things that Jesus did."

We are anticipating bringing at least three types of teams to Ukraine for our upcoming trip in July of 2009.  There will be a camp team and musical team, as well as a new opportunity to join with a bicycle team with Next Generation International Fund, where cyclists will travel to different towns over a 10-12 day period in Gospel outreach.  Contact Paul and Christie for more information!

A Ukrainian girl with her new Bible and coloring book.