Vranov, Day 5

“Courage to serve God” was Friday’s theme. The camp day started with a poignant skit about the importance of keeping God at the center of our lives. Throughout the day, students and teachers reminisced on their favorite camp moments and began saying goodbyes to their new friends. We then joined friends and families inside the church for a closing program filled with songs, a photo slideshow, and skits of the Joshua story. Seeing such creativity and courage as the students performed in English was lots of fun!

During the closing program, Phil shared a story reminding us of all the people who have supported this camp from near and far. Most noticeably absent this year is Phil’s co-leader and sister, Erika (who has sent the team several encouraging videos, alongside newborn Felix!). Although she was not able to enjoy the camp with us in-person this year, Erika has been instrumental in making preparations during the months leading up to our arrival. Being a “goer” is such a blessing, but we are frequently reminded of all the “senders” we’ve left behind at home. Countless people have supported us through prayer, by generously donating crafts and funds, and by selflessly holding down the home front. We truly, truly thank you all.

Phil also shared stories of how the Vranov camp has evolved since 2013. Many of this year’s translators had previously attended the camp as children. Some are now high school or university students, others have jobs, some even have families of their own, but they all share a willingness to volunteer their time to ensure future generations have the opportunity to hear the Gospel. This continuity is a testament to the mission of Spiritual Orphans Network: building the Body of Christ through relationships.

Friday evening, we had a casual gathering where the team had an opportunity to say final farewells to several of the Slovak interpreters. We enjoyed this time of fellowship, laughter, and learning more about the lives each of us will soon be returning to.

Weekend Activities

Saturday morning, we once again loaded up the bus and traveled to the beautiful town of Svit. We’ve enjoyed walking around and seeing the quaint homes built by the owner of a large shoe company for his employees (prior to socialism.) Our hotel has a beautiful view of the High Tatras (the majestic mountain range in northern Slovakia.)

On Sunday, Scott (camp music leader and pastor in Ukraine) gave the sermon at the Lutheran church in Batizovce, the town next-door to Svit. For the past three years, we have worked alongside the Lutheran churches in Batizovce and Svit (which are pastored by a husband-and-wife team) to bring an English Bible camp to the children in this northern area of Slovakia.

We then met our interpreters for the week– some who have previously worked with us and some new. Teachers and interpreters got to spend some time getting to know one another over lunch before heading over to the nearby school for a tour and classroom setup. We look forward to this upcoming camp and for all the new adventures God has in store!

Prayer Requests

• Moving to a new location is sometimes challenging as we readjust (everything from different showers to new children.) Please pray for us to have open minds and hearts.

• We praise God for safe travels to this new location and for the warm welcome we have already received.