Testimonies

«Children Mission cares not only for children, but for those ministering to them…»

I have a big family: my husband, 5 kids (my eldest daughter is already married) and I. In 2007 I went for Module 1 training. I expected to receive some knowledge about children’s ministry. I thought: “I have 4 youngsters, my eldest has just got married (meaning I’ll have grandchildren soon), so I need more information how to better bring them up”. Of course, I thought, the classes will look like college lectures. Can you imagine my surprise when I, a 38-year lady, had to become like a child, to come down to their level!

And here the most difficult part started. As I tried to become like a child, my very own childhood collapsed onto me with hurting memories and painful experiences. I had no idea that most of my today problems were rooted in my childhood. I felt that there was something that prevented me from being even closer to God. I was looking for a way out at women’s conferences, but it didn’t help. And it was there, at this “children thing”, where I was released from this pain. The work that God was doing through our regional mentor from Ukraine Lyuda Pasynkova was going on for more than a year: I forgave my parents, our relations with my husband were restored, my attitude towards my children changed. Those were giant spiritual steps!

From time to time I was thinking on giving up with children’s ministry. But each time I was about to declare it publicly, God brought Lyuda here, to Northern Caucasus. Her visits touched my heart: she came all this way from Ukraine just to ask “how are you?” and pray for me! I experienced the greatness of God’s love through her! Each of her visits strengthened me right at the moment when I thought I had nothing to go forward. It was a new encouragement from Father God. Thanks to Children Mission for sending to us people like Lyuda who are used by God to train us and bring healing to our hearts.

By the end of the year I was firm in my decision to go for Module 2. I was looking forward to not just new training, but for God to work more in my heart. I was expecting new things from the Lord. I was excited about effective children’s ministry.

Now as I’m doing Module 2, I have a big desire to go forward and grow deeper. Both Children Mission courses are bringing me healing. During these trainings I experience that Children Mission cares not only for children, but for those ministering to them… Praise the Lord!

Olya Sukhovey,
Kislovodsk, Russia

All materials on the subject "Testimonies":

• Letter from Armenia
• «Children Mission cares not only for children, but for those ministering to them…»
• «Teach me how to minister to the kids!»