A special Christmas gathering took place at Reimer Center, bringing together around 70 children and their families. On that day, the center was filled with a festive atmosphere, children’s laughter, and a sincere sense of anticipation for something good. At a time when life in Zaporizhzhia is shaped by air-raid sirens, news from the front, and constant tension, this meeting became a small island of peace and joy. It was clear that Christmas is not just a date on the calendar, but a living event that touches hearts.
For many families, this event was their first visit to Reimer Center. That is why the atmosphere of warmth, openness, and acceptance was especially important. The children immediately felt welcome: they were greeted with smiles, engaged in conversation, played games, and received support. During the gathering, the children received Christmas gifts and children’s Bibles — not merely as material items, but as signs of care, attention, and love. For many of them, these gifts became a true surprise and a source of genuine joy.
One of the mothers, Nina, shared her impressions after the event:
“I would like to thank you and your team for a wonderful day and new knowledge. We were with you for the first time. You could feel the warmth.”
Her words reflect what many parents felt — that Reimer Center is a place where one can breathe freely, where children are safe, and where adults feel supported. Such simple and sincere feedback becomes the greatest reward for the team that puts its heart into this work.
A special role in preparing for Christmas was played by the Advent activities. Daily tasks helped the children not only count down the days to Christmas, but also understand its deeper meaning. Julia, the mother of one of the girls, shared her daughter’s experience:
“Advent was very interesting for Sofia; she waited for the task every morning. Thank you to your whole team, and we wish you a Happy New Year together with Sofia.”
For Sofia and many other children, these small daily tasks became part of a family tradition — moments of joy and expectation that filled each day with meaning.
During the gathering itself, the children listened to a Christmas story told by one of the center’s leaders, Olia. Through simple words and clear images, she spoke about the birth of Jesus, about light coming into darkness, and about hope that does not disappear even in difficult times. Afterwards, the children and their parents were invited to a church that also actively celebrates Christmas and is open to families, striving to be a place of community and support.
Despite the war, that day at Reimer Center was filled with laughter, joyful voices, and childlike excitement. The children played, ran, talked, and for a few hours were able to forget about fear and the heavy realities of the adult world. This Christmas gathering once again reminded everyone that even in the hardest times, children need joy, and that Christmas remains a time of hope, warmth, and love that can change lives.
