Steve was invited to speak at a youth leader’s conference in Kiev, Ukraine at the end of October. After some last-minute planning, I was able to go with him. When our host found out that I was coming, they asked if I would do a couple of seminars for the ladies. It was an honor to be a part of this wonderful conference where over 200 youth leaders from all over the country of Ukraine gathered to be encouraged and equipped. Oleg and Lena of Radooga ministries were so gracious in giving us a tour of Kiev and giving us a glimpse of their culture and ministry. Fortunately they spoke very good English and have hosted many Americans. They knew just what to do to help us with jet lag and get adjusted to their time zone quickly (they picked us up from the airport and kept us busy until their bedtime…..we were awake for almost 30 hours before we finally fell in the bed and slept for 12 hours!).
Steve leading a seminar w/ Sasha translating.
Steve and I had never spoken through translators before while speaking in front of a group. We had wonderful translators, Sasha and Leysa, and they put us at ease and helped us communicate with the attendees. I spoke twice to two different groups of ladies about serving with your husband in ministry. One group were all young single ladies who wanted to know what to look for in a godly man so we had a lot of fun discussing this topic. I also led a seminar on Biblical motivation. Steve spoke to all the attendees in one session and then led two seminars about family ministry and helping teens find balance. Most of the youth leaders in Ukraine are lay leaders and have such a passion to reach students. They were so hungry for direction in leading youth and knowing how to minister to their families. The conference was a special time for them to fellowship and be encouraged.
Leysa was my translator.
After the conference and saying our goodbyes to our new friends, we started our 2 day journey home. We had a layover in London so we took advantage of our time there and did a quick tour around the city. It was already dark by the time we got there but we made the best of it. We walked the streets and saw Big Ben, Westminster Abby, and rode the Eye of London. It was beautiful at night with all the lights. We had to take a taxi ride and Steve told the driver, “Take her to Harrods!” It was amazing….I bought Christmas ornaments to remember our short trip to London and Harrods.
We were so grateful for the opportunity the Lord gave us to be a part of the conference and meet so many wonderful servants. We will continue to pray for the people we met and their ministries.
View from the Eye of London
