FINDING TREASURE

We've been drawn back to Ukraine once again - it's strange, the allure.  This time we came via Poland.  We had the opportunity to participate in a Mennonite historical tour which expanded the knowledge and scope of our heritage.  Our genealogical  quest was akin to searching for treasure and to our surprise we were able to uncover some family gems in the form of gravestone fragments with ancestral names.  It was pretty exhilarating.

The theme was "Searching for Treasure"  There were

pirates, a ship and sunken treasure

Upon arrival here we became aware of another treasure hunt in process.  Last week the Kutuzovka Church held its annual children's camp.  We were invited to join parents in attending the final wrap-up session Friday afternoon.  Seventy children were registered. They had been divided into six groups, each with a leader and a helper.  Eight years ago, when we first came to Ukraine, these young leaders were the children.  It's great to see them becoming responsible young adults; also gratifying for us an organization because we are annual sponsors of this camp.  The camp director, a very capable young women, is the daughter of our head cook, Ira.

Ploughing into the muck

Searching under the tent

Teams, parents among them, competed in finding treasure. Where were those elusive keys to unlock the treasure chests?  There was much excitement, seeking and scrambling.  In addition to all the activities and fun each day, children were given keys to unlocking Scriptural treasures - the ultimate treasure quest.                                                                                         

As in other years, residents of the Senior's Home at the church participated in the camp. Women who are physically able, willingly peeled potatoes for 100 people and busily washed dishes.  Connections were made across the generations.  Contributing to operational costs of the Senior's Home is another one of our projects.

                                                                                     

Fleeting treasures.
We're in the midst of apricot season.  Trees everywhere are laden with fruit. We're enjoying this abundance but it won't be for long.  The weather is scorching hot and in many cases fruit is cooking on the stem.  People tell us that summers have been getting hotter and dryer; there has been less snow in winters.  Less moisture in the ground is taking its toll because many here depend on their gardens for their livelihood.  Right now gardens are producing but people are waiting for rain.

For more information on the work of the Mennonite Centre, please go to http://www.mennonitecentre.ca/

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