Thursday, June 16: Ukrainian Refugees

 Immigration 

First full-day in Berlin went on without a hitch! Again we began our day with a full German breakfast. Later we met for coffee with Emily who is one of ReachGlobal Berlin’s missionaries focused primarily on immigrants and refugees.

She was able to present both of us with a clear picture of what exactly does as a missionary focused on the refugee crisis in Berlin. 

Berliner Stadt Mission

Inside the central station in Berlin hung banners and flags urging support for Ukraine. The white tent on the left side of the photo is the refugee tent. This tent is where all the Ukrainian immigrants go through before catching a train. 

Apparently many Ukrainian refugees go through Poland and next Germany. Today we worked at the very first entry point for refugees entering Germany right outside the main train station in Berlin. After getting off their train, they follow signs in the train station before coming into the tent outside, have some food, health, and other resources offered, and then are able to go from there on a bus that leaves every half-hour to an overnight shelter that was set up at an old airport before going on to their temporary housing. 

Us four along with Nicole deBruyn were able to volunteer inside the tent and meet the Ukrainian refugees face to face. I stayed at the food line handing out sandwiches while Dave and Lindsey switched between the food line and entrance greeters. Kiera was able to hangout in the kids corner and play so the games and toys with the eager children. 

This was truly an impactful experience. In our 3-hour shift we had the remarkable privilege of being able to show the love of God in the little things we did. Whether it be handing out water bottles or having meaningful conversations with people, we were able to share the immense love of God to everyone.

A mere 3 hours was loaded with stuff to process, not just for me, but for the other 4 team members, too. We were able to process some together, but I imagine we’ll continue to do so for some time. And if 3 hours leaves us reeling, it’s hard to comprehend what it must be like for those living it. 

Prayers for Ukraine. 
Prayers for the displaced. 
Our refuge is in Him.