Stories from the Field

Twice a month, I come to paint at the meetings for Ukrainian refugee women. I learned about the meetings through my friend. She invited me to one of the meetings, and I began to come consistently.

Very quickly, the meetings became something special for me, something natural. There is always a pleasant atmosphere and wonderful people who surround us with warmth and care.

One activity we enjoy during the meetings is painting. During the painting process, speakers share different topics related to life, a relationship with God, and relationships with others. They pose questions for discussion that help us think more deeply. After the meetings, we can also talk with the leaders and ask questions.

Another wonderful aspect is that painting immerses me in the world of art and helps me see myself as a beautiful woman. Because of the war, many of us refugee women forget that we are God's creation, that we are beautiful. War took many valuable things from us, plunged us into fear, darkness, and emptiness. Because of these meetings for refugee women, I feel happier and more confident in myself!

I am also thankful for the additional help with groceries—this support helps me live and go through these difficult moments in life.

-Marsha