Every Saturday, a special community gathers at Reimer Center – around 30 children and their parents come to the children’s club, which has become a place of joy, fellowship, and spiritual growth for them. Here, children can not only have fun but also learn biblical truths, make new friends, and receive support.
At 9:00 AM, the organizing team is already assembled. The morning planning begins with a Bible reading – a tradition that inspires the volunteers and sets them up for a fruitful day. The children’s ministry leaders discuss the event plan, assign responsibilities, and pray for the children who will soon arrive.
From the very first minutes, the atmosphere is filled with anticipation. Some check the equipment, others rehearse the songs that will be sung during the program. The leaders prepare props for the games, while some volunteers are already engaging with parents who have brought their children.
At 9:30 AM, the children begin to arrive. They are impossible to miss – they run around, hug their friends and the volunteers, creating an atmosphere of joyful chaos. It feels like an explosion of happiness! The children’s ministry leaders greet them with smiles, helping them settle in. Some kids immediately rush to the sports games, while others join the musicians preparing for the worship session.
“I guess I will never get used to this happy chaos,” says Ksyusha, one of the club leaders. “But at the same time, this chaos really inspires me,” she shares.
“This is my favorite day of the week!” exclaims Danik, hugging his mentor, Sergey, tightly.
The parents also take an active part. Some simply observe the process, while others help the organizers by interacting with the children or assisting with practical tasks.
After a short warm-up and group singing, the main part of the club begins – the Bible lesson. The children listen attentively, absorbing important values. It’s not just a story – interactive lessons, engaging stories, and creative tasks make learning exciting.
“For me, this is a very important time because here I can talk to the children about God,” shares Sergey, the teacher of the older group.
During the lesson, the children eagerly discuss what they have heard, ask questions, and reflect on biblical stories. Here, they learn about love, kindness, support, and trust in God.
After the lesson, it’s time for active games. Sports competitions and team activities promote unity and a healthy lifestyle. Even those who were initially shy quickly get involved in the process.
Some parents join in as well – helping with organization or simply enjoying the moment with their children.
“I really love that my son has real, live interactions,” says a father, Alexander. “At this club, parents can also learn many things. The joy that my children experience here – I am sure they will never forget it.”
This children’s club in Zaporizhzhia is more than just a place where kids meet. It is located not far from the frontline, and in times of war, it has become a true island of joy and stability. Children, who often experience stress due to external circumstances, find support, friendship, and a deeper meaning in life here.
The organizers believe that every meeting is an opportunity to impact children’s hearts. They do not just entertain them but instill faith, love, and hope. And this is what makes their work so valuable.
Such clubs prove that even in the hardest times, there is a place for light, goodness, and love. And as long as initiatives like this exist in Zaporizhzhia, a new generation of strong and spiritually rich children will continue to grow.
