Before they started to work with children full time, Sergiy led worship at the couple’s church and they both took part in a hospital ministry, sharing God’s love with the children who were seriously ill (such as those who are HIV-positive). Sergiy was sure that the business that he had would be enough to provide for several children. They had to rent an apartment. Expenses were high and one day the business went under.

At first, they met with a lot of obstacles from local authorities. It took them four years before they were approved, and in 2005, they moved into a new apartment. That is when three foster children joined the family and, in 2006, they were blessed with two more. Now there are 10 children in the family, two of whom are the couple’s biological children, two of whom are adopted (both invalids) and six of whom are foster children. The government provides a small stipend for only five of the foster children because one of the girls doesn’t have documents.

“The Lord never left us, but He was testing us,” Sergiy said. Their prayer request is for God to bless the children with good health and that they would grow knowing Him and for provision in times of need. They are struggling with dividing their time because seven of the 10 children constantly need support and attention.