|
|
|
Project AGAPE – A Letter from a Mission Volunteer
By Pamela J. Karg - Individual Volunteer in Mission through The United Methodist Church from the Wisconsin Conference of The United Methodist Church
As an Individual Volunteer in Mission through The United Methodist Church serving in Armenia, I was anxious to learn about all the projects our denomination supports in this former Soviet country. So with great anticipation, I joined the AGAPE Project staff for a short visit to Karabagh. What an incredible experience to see and to hear about the impact this program has had on the lives of ordinary people who live in limbo because of the unresolved conflict between Armenia and Azerbaijan! I saw first-hand that this project is accomplishing what we all hope happens when we donate supplies, money or talents through the church: it is "putting God's love in action!"
My first impressions were of the facilities that the North Carolina Conferences have established in Lachin. There is a peacefulness that allows you to feel the power of the Spirit at work. It's also very comfortable, with touches of Americana throughout the building, and I can imagine how easy it must be for teams of volunteers to feel secure, well-cared-for and centered when they stay there.
Second, I was impressed by how much the small AGAPE Project staff can accomplish! They are dedicated, hard-working, flexible and committed to doing all they can to help others. What a testament to the power of the Spirit working in and through these people to help ensure that the most vulnerable people are cared for and that the resources given by our North Carolina United Methodists are making a positive impact in the region.
Third, it is always the children that touch my heart and the AGAPE Project certainly makes sure they remain the center of attention. Through support of the orphanages, the hospital, the after-school enrichment program...the project mirrors Armenian society and culture. Children are the future of this region. In a heartbeat, I know adults would readily return to the safety and security they grew up knowing from the former Soviet system. But adults realize that freedom, democracy and capitalism hold more promises for the future -- and their children. Armenians invest everything into their children and the AGAPE Project upholds these investments by making sure the most vulnerable children in Karabagh are cared for and cared about.
Since answering my own call to serve in Armenia whatever way I can, I have said that these people, their stories of persecution and survival, and this place are special. It doesn't take much to make a big impact -- through donations or in person -- and seeing the AGAPE Project at work affirms for me that there are still serious needs here that fit with the mission of the United Methodist Church. Even though I'm not part of the North Carolina Conferences, I am proud of the work and support our church is doing here through AGAPE! |