We’re grateful for your prayers as we continue to help build disciples around the world.  In our last letter, we asked you to pray for Ukraine and the surrounding countries. Here’s one story. 

“Is there war here?” Aleksander, a primary student, asked. He’s one of at least 2.5 million Ukrainian children who’ve moved to safer places since the Russian invasion began. He fled to the city of Ternopil with his mother.

They arrived at a school where Svitlana, an ISP trained educator, serves as principal. Her school has a bomb shelter in the basement. When air raid sirens scream, teachers and students shuffle and hide in the basement. Svitlana and other Christian educators in her school are reaching out to meet physical needs by providing food and makeshift beds for 24 people. They also offer spiritual and emotional support.

“The children who have arrived have nothing else,” Svitlana says. “Their parents are already deeply traumatized.”

While much attention has focused on Ukraine and neighboring countries, Cru’s work goes on around the world. Mark continues to serve as managing editor for Cru Storylines, while also overseeing other communications projects. His team is working on stories from New York, California, Africa and South America.

We’re thankful for your prayers for our health. Mark’s eye surgery went well and he’s adjusting to having good distance vision after being near-sighted for most of his life. He’s also doing physical therapy for a hip problem that is getting better.

We’re still trying to figure out what is going on with my health. In December, I began to have lower body weakness and pain, as well as shoulder pain. 

Blood tests indicated a serious autoimmune problem. With that information, I saw a rheumatologist. He requested more blood tests and a CT scan, which confirmed the diagnosis. 

As you think of us, please pray:

• For growing strength in my arms and legs as I take prescribed medications and continue with a physical therapy routine.
• For no side effects from the prescriptions. I’ve had some stomach pain from one of them. 
• For Mark’s continued adjustment to his eyesight, and to using reading glasses for close-up work.
• For both of our ministries to continue. So far, we’ve both been able to keep working almost full time around our medical appointments.  

Thanks again. We treasure having you as part of our lives.

Sincerely in Christ, Anne Marie, for the Winz family