It’s hard, keeping to yourself
Jelena* and her younger siblings grew up in an orphanage in Serbia. She suffered from poor health, which together with her Roma heritage, meant that she found making friends and her way that environment very difficult. Jelena began to withdraw into herself, creating distance between her and the 100 other children that called the orphanage home. One way she did this was to begin to learn English, something which allowed her and a very small group of other children to form their own little knot. Jelena continued to work hard at her language studies.
Jelena began to play chess, which she found was something she could feel good about without having the attention of a lot of people, and through which she could interact with some of the volunteers who came to the orphanage from time to time.
Jelena by and large kept to herself, but through one of the volunteers she developed an interest in the bible and faith. With characteristic commitment she began to study Christianity seriously. Those in charge at the orphanage disapproved of this and took her bible and other materials away. Jelena installed a bible app on her phone and kept going. She particularly enjoyed listening to the bible, and studied it chapter by chapter. Yes, this was another way in which she might keep herself apart, but Jelena nevertheless grew both in faith and understanding.
Jelena came to House of Opportunity Belgrade in December. She has some challenges to face. Although obviously bright, Jelena managed to dodge a lot of her schooling, preferring to be either by herself or with just a few trusted friends. This meant that she did not graduate school. She is shy, and lacks a lot of the basic skills she needs to look after herself. But, her English is amazing. So much so that She finds it easier to express herself in English than in Serbian. She finds it easier to express herself in English than in Serbian. Her knowledge of the bible is considerable, especially as she has never attended church. With the right support, this girl could fly.
The House of Opportunity team have found a volunteer that they think will be a good match for Jelena: A Christian lady from originally from Africa, with a Masters degree of Social Work, who communicates well in English. There two are now in touch, and the team hopes and prays that they will be great blessing to one another.
We are convinced that God is the one who is sending us new residents like Jelena. The young people coming into our programmes are not arriving by accident, or through coincidence. Our mission is to use that given opportunity to serve, help and support them in the best way we can.
*Name changed
