PGJyLz4=https://gcfcanada.comwp-content/uploads/2022/02/Camp-in-a-Box-logo-approved-300x252.pngPGJyLz4=PGJyLz4=LatviaOften overlooked, but special little Eastern European country bordering Russia with just under 2,000,000 populationMissionIntroducing people to the message of Jesus Christ as early in their lives as possible, then helping new believers to follow him, in community, with others who follow him. This means that we focus a lot of time and resources towards children and youth helping them to understand their value, purpose and potential, then mentoring and coaching them in that direction.It is a huge privilege to be trusted and allowed to speak into a person's life, especially a young person with their whole journey ahead. It is inspiring and deeply rewarding to see these youth find their way through the many challenges, temptations and other experiences in life with the joy, peace, and victory that comes from following Jesus. To see them become a positive and valuable part of society and to raise their own children with these values and character. Issues facing children in Latvia include addictions, abuse, general distrust, struggling economy and broken families (often due to addictions or parents working abroad). Some of the beauty of Latvian culture and character includes talent and love for the arts, creativity and resilience, determination and hard work. When children are encouraged and supported in a positive direction and understand Jesus' love for them and purpose, it is amazing to see their dedication and accomplishment. Over 22 years of ministry we now get to spend time with some of the children of the children that we invested in through summer camps and mentoring. A good example of this is the close friendship that we have with a young man, whom we have known since the age of 5 or 6. His family are neighbors to the first camp facility that we helped to develop. Initially they were against the camp, the gospel of Jesus and quite challenging relationally. Over the years of us and others having conversations about Jesus and sharing life together, the family decided to be baptised and started to attend a local church. Now this young man who I used to swing around in circles and spend time with when we visited, has become a committed follower of Jesus, married a Christian lady and they are awaiting their second child. When we go to visit, their little daughter always has a big smile and wants to be picked up or takes us by the hand to show us her world. We can see that their lives are also impacting others, bringing encouragement and hope. He is an army orchestra musician, farmer, and active in their church. They invited us into their world because we took time for them when they needed it the most. Over the years we have been privileged to give significant help and leadership in 2 major summer camp facility developments, encourage other developments, and establish both the Camp in a Box mobile camp facility and the connected Your time / Their Future youth mentoring initiative. Working with GCF over the last few years has been helpful to get more funding to the field while providing great accountability, structure, and prayer. Together with the advisory committee and Latvian organizational board, we have seen God working in special and significant ways in the lives of children, youth and families in Latvia. We have been privileged to take part in sharing hope in Jesus with thousands of children and families over the years. In addition God has opened doors to invest in the community where the ministry base is located with weekly bible studies and special children’s, family, and humanitarian projects in partnership with the local government. The pandemic restriction in Latvia, as in many countries, has affected camps, events, meetings and church gatherings. Children and youth living in small apartments and homes where stress and conflict has been multiplied during the restrictions are desperate to get out and have positive connections and experiences. Thankfully restrictions are loosening and overnight summer camps will be allowed again, in smaller groups and with precautions. PGJyLz4=
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