The children behind every gift

Simple English lessons are giving children the confidence to speak up — in class and beyond.

Through vision boards and Gospel sessions, children put words and pictures to a future they can work toward.

One boy was so lit up by the Cookery session that he ran home to bake for his family that very evening.

Voice training, guitar and keyboard sessions uncovered hidden talents — and gave shy children room to shine.

New children are attending church, and a brand-new worship gathering has taken root in the village.

For many children, our IT sessions are their first hands-on time with a computer — a doorway to what's possible.

Simple English lessons are giving children the confidence to speak up — in class and beyond.

I met a 7-year-old girl in Nawalapitiya, Rilagala, who had experienced abuse two months earlier. After joining our program, I saw a beautiful change in her life. In the beginning, she was quiet and reserved, but gradually she started to open her heart and enjoy the activities. Before she went home, she said goodbye with a joyful smile. That smile touched my heart.

The cooking class was full of excitement. The children were eager to take part, not just watch. They enjoyed mixing ingredients, sifting flour, and helping throughout the session. In Mullivaikkal, while the cake was baking, the children sat around me, talked, shared their stories, and enjoyed spending time together.

I visited Mullaitivu and met a 4-year-old boy. His parents had gone to work, and his brother was taking care of him. At first, he slowly came near me and started talking with me. He showed his love and trust by staying close to me. Finally, he sat on my lap with happiness and comfort. This small moment touched my heart and reminded me of the innocent love and trust of children.

I visited Nawalapitiya and spent time with the children by sitting in a circle and teaching them. One 4-year-old girl stayed close to me wherever I went and called me, 'Akka, Akka,' with so much love. When she was going home, she held her slippers and asked me, 'Akka, please put them on my feet.' This beautiful experience reminded me of the pure love and trust of children.

During our crafts and art activities in Nawalapitiya, I asked the children, 'When was the last time you did crafts work?' They replied, 'This is our first time.' Even though it was their first time, they created beautiful crafts with great interest and enjoyed every moment. Seeing their happiness, creativity, and excitement was a wonderful experience.

One girl was very shy and hardly spoke when we first met. By the end of the mission trip, she had become comfortable enough to hold my hand, talk openly, and ask if we would come back. Seeing her open up and feel at ease was one of the most meaningful parts of the mission trip for me.

I visited Mullaitivu and met an 8-year-old girl who has difficulty walking. Her mother carried her and helped her sit beside me. I spent time teaching her, and she was learning very well. She smiled beautifully and enjoyed playing with others. Seeing her daughter’s smile brought tears to her mother’s eyes. Her mother sincerely thanked me from her heart.