COVID-19

With a desire to help society, and following the example of their leaders, GFA youth have also been involved in helping those in need. Youth have served alongside fellow believers in distributing essentials such as food and masks to neighbors without. In some cases, youth fellowships have even spearheaded relief efforts.

Distributing Help, Hope in the Slum

In one area, 400 slum residents were unable to work because of pandemic-induced restrictions. Congested living conditions made social distancing nearly impossible. Yet, as time went on, the residents’ lack of provisions caused many to fear starvation more than the coronavirus.

GFA pastor Vadim knew of the mounting difficulty of people in his community. As he spoke to members of his flock, Pastor Vadim shared his burden and encouraged the believers to help the most vulnerable with practical aid.

Several young people wanted to help those in need and spread hope in their community. They took the initiative to collect donations and purchased enough rice, wheat, oil, beans, salt and vegetables for 45 families. Their eagerness caught the attention of a local policeman, who requested they help people in the slum, where he knew people were in dire need.

The team of youth soon visited the slum to distribute groceries. One family had been facing extreme poverty and had slept with empty stomachs multiple nights.

“We feel like you were sent by God,” the family remarked.

After observing the families’ gratitude, the team was very encouraged and reflected on how helping during difficult times was just what Jesus had taught them to do.

Hygiene Kits for Needy Families

Elsewhere, a GFA youth fellowship distributed 87 hygiene kits consisting of hand sanitizer, gloves, masks and acetaminophen tablets to help those in need protect themselves and their families from the virus.

“During the lockdown, we face many difficulties to buy the necessary items,” said Stavros, a hygiene kit recipient. “I am happy to receive the help and thankful to the church."

Rameer, another recipient, also expressed gratitude.

“I convey my heartfelt gratitude to the church that helps the needy during the COVID-19 crisis,” Rameer said.

These GFA youth have helped impact their communities with tangible love and practical aid. They have taken to heart Paul’s admonishment to Timothy: “Let no one despise your youth, but be an example to the believers in word, in conduct, in love, in spirit, in faith, in purity” (1 Timothy 4:12).