When 17-year-old Ivan arrived at iYouth Camp in Germany last summer, the Ukrainian teenager was burdened by more than his country’s three-year war with Russia.
He felt empty, unloved and disconnected.
But thanks to friends like you who helped make iYouth Camp possible, Ivan’s faith was renewed, and he found a peace he hadn’t known in years.
Here’s the story of how God used you to transform Ivan’s life.
Ivan had once enjoyed a close walk with God. But problems at home with his father, and disappointment with his church community, left him in pain and isolation. Even his friends couldn’t fill the void.
As Ivan struggled to make sense of life, a friend invited him to iYouth Camp. Along with 34 other Ukrainian teenagers and counselors, Ivan made a 24-hour bus ride that changed his life.
“Every Smile, Every Hug, Every Prayer”
“As I arrived, I felt the warm embrace of a family atmosphere for the first time in years,” said Ivan. “Every smile, every hug and every prayer reminded me of the unconditional love that I had been missing.”
At iYouth Camp, Ivan found a place of acceptance, love, and connection – the perfect setting to encounter God in new and meaningful ways. Each day, camp staff and counselors didn’t just tell Ivan about God’s love; they showed him through worship, seminars, sermons and prayer.
“During one special prayer gathering, I felt compelled to seek healing and forgiveness,” said Ivan. “One of the leaders prayed over me, speaking words of God’s love and constant presence. In that moment, I felt my pain lift and replaced with a deep peace I hadn’t known in years.”
“I Am Surrounded”
Ivan also found the courage to forgive his father – a critical step toward healing. “I began to see myself as a ‘warrior for Christ,’ ready to serve others with the love I had experienced. My new friends, including volunteers from around the world, assured me of their ongoing prayers and support.”
After returning home, Ivan reconciled with his father, hugged him, and expressed genuine forgiveness. The love he experienced at camp now fuels a desire to bring his mother closer to God.
“I no longer feel a lack of love,” said Ivan. “I know that I am surrounded by people who care.”
Thank God for Your Generosity!
Where would Ivan be today were it not for friends like you who made iYouth Camp possible?
Thank God your generosity helped Ivan find hope healing, and the courage to rebuild broken relationships.
And thank you for being there for Ivan. You made a difference in his life!
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