Last Christmas was no exception, and it is encouraging that this work is now spreading into Uzbekistan, a country which was formerly opposed to any kind of Christian witness but is now becoming more open.
Two newly built Hope Centres were involved in the “Joy of Christmas” programme. This year an evangelistic calendar with Bible verses was enclosed in each gift box. In this way each family received a part of God’s Word. We trust that these calendars will hang in many homes as a constant reminder of Christ and His love for each person. The calendars were distributed in different languages so that everyone could read these verses in their own language, be it Russian or Uzbek.
Over 20 cities or towns were visited by the teams with more than 5,000 people hearing the Gospel, most for the very first time. One child remarked, “One day my grandfather read me a Bible verse in which Jesus told his disciples not to prevent children from coming to him. Inspired by this, I decided to attend church to see a performance about how Jesus was born. God has given me amazing gifts this year, I met beautiful friends, brothers and sisters, but also, I was treated with delicious chocolates and cookies. I feel joy and gratitude to Jesus”.
In one area there is a settlement of local Luli Gypsies, living in difficult conditions. A pastor there is actively working among these people, trying to establish contacts, to familiarize them with the church and God. The “Joy of Christmas” team visited this settlement, gave gifts, and shared about God and His love for them. Pray that God will draw to Himself and touch the hearts of these people.
Thank you to all who contributed towards the 2023 “Joy of Christmas” programme. Through your support God raised the funds to reach the target of 14,000 gifts! We look to the Lord that through this means children and their families will be brought to a living faith in Jesus.
