BELARUS, October 2005
Carelink readers will recall that we have a number of sisters and their children in the Chernobyl-radiation contaminated zone in Belarus. They face many health problems especially thyroid issues, which are especially difficult for the children, meaning they are often sick. We were able to present one family with a large quilt comprised of squares of knitting done by various sisters in NSW Australia and lovingly sewn together by Sis Peggy Joseph.
The family we gave it to are very strong in faith but have so many problems in addition to health issues. One sister has to raise three children on the wages she gets from casual factory work- her alcoholic husband has long since gone. She is helped in raising the children by her best friend and cousin, also a sister, who is a registered invalid because of her thyroid problem, who also has sick children. These two sisters are really wonderful examples of holding to the Lord in the midst of so many things which would swamp many others in the round of daily cares and worries.
They teach the children the Truth and one by one they are being baptized. They really deeply appreciated the extensive and careful love shown behind the large quilt, which will of course be useful this Winter for them all.
Family with the patchwork quilt made by loving Australian sisters.
Whilst in Belarus it was possible to follow up a contact, but there was no running water in his block for the baptism. He was that keen for baptism he suggested doing it in a local river. We had to wade through cow dung to get to the water, but in the end it is a joy to announce the baptism of SASHA into the Lord's saving and gracious Name.
There are so many dear and wonderful brethren and sisters like this scattered throughout the vast ex-USSR. Please continue your prayers and support for them. They truly deserve it.
With love from your brothers and sisters of CCM