We are back from our Christmas holiday in Zaporozhye. Zaporozhye is about 3.5 to 4 hours away by marshrutka (small van), and is home to the MCC Ukraine central office, as well as several MCCers. This was our first trip out of Donetsk by public transportation, and all went smoothly. We traveled with a fellow SALT worker who lives in Makeevka, a town close to Donetsk. We stayed in the apartment of our country director, who was away for the holiday, and hosted three other MCCers for a traditional Christmas dinner. Otherwise our time was spent relaxing, walking around town, watching movies and spending time with other MCCers. It was fun, but didn’t really seem like Christmas. Both of us were able to talk to our families on the phone, which made us feel a little more connected to the festivities that were taking place in the U.S. Now that we’re back, the staff at DCU is preparing for their holiday break, which begins tomorrow and lasts until Jan. 10. We’ll use this time to prepare for next semester, as we will both be teaching English – Laura to university students and Dave to community members.
Staff members here at DCU received some MCC material aid just in time for Christmas. Yesterday Laura walked past a classroom in the administration building and witnessed much commotion and excitement as staff and their families sorted through MCC clothing bundles. This morning the rector announced that staff will be given cans of MCC meat just in time for Orthodox Christmas. It is exciting for us to see those on the receiving end of MCC material aid, especially after we toured and helped at the material aid warehouse during orientation. Dave was especially excited about the meat distribution because in addition to helping on the canner, his family hosts the meat canners when they come to Mountain Lake.
Our experience in Ukraine has showed us a different kind of need that isn’t always recognizable at first glance. In the past, when we thought of people in need, typical images of children in rags living in dirt huts came to mind. Here, people are very concerned with appearance and dress well – better, even, than we might in the U.S. Winter coats, for example, are frequently made of leather and trimmed with fur, with hats and gloves to match. At first glace, these people seem well-off. But when we realize that their monthly salaries amount to less than $100 per month, we know there is need here; it is simply concealed by external appearances. Because of this, it is easy to forget. We are inspired by the faith of the people here, who trust God to provide no matter how large the need.
Dave and Laura
