Pure and genuine religion in the sight of God the Father means caring for orphans and widows in their distress and refusing to let the world corrupt you. James 1:27
February, 2022
Dear Friends,
Life continues on with the routine of school, homework and free time. We and all of the children and teenagers did go on a couple of outings these past Saturdays. The first Saturday, it was a beautiful, sunny day. So, we went to the mountains close by. It was a perfect day for sledding. Some friends were there from our church. They blessed everyone with a wonderful lunch. It tasted so good after a morning of sledding. By the middle of the afternoon, the clouds started to roll in so it was time to go home.
Another Saturday, everyone went to Lugoj for an afternoon of roller blading. Again, it was a warm, sunny day so it was perfect. There is a nice park with ramps that the children like to skate on. They all had a lot of fun. It was good to get out in the fresh air and do something different. This past Sunday when we got home from church, someone had left platters of sandwiches, pizza, deserts and drinks outside the door of the orphanage. It was a great feast. God is always providing in unexpected and neat ways.
Some of our widows whom we visit and take food and firewood to have just recently passed away. At their visitations, the family members that were there thanked us for all we had done for their loved ones. We have added more widows to our list who have just lost their husbands. We are thankful that we can help them and be there if they need anything.
We wanted to give an update on our personal family. Marta is still cooking for the orphanage. She has also started visiting and helping out an elderly lady on our street. The lady is so excited to have someone to talk to and go to church with. And, Marta enjoys her company and helping her. Bianca is studying a lot as she is a senior this year. It is a challenging year in school in Romania. We are celebrating our 22nd wedding anniversary this week. This will be the third year in a row that we have been apart for it. But, we will celebrate when Karen returns to Romania. We still aren't sure exactly when that will be but God is in control and He knows best. We will keep you updated on her progress. She is feeling fine now and will have another CT scan this week. Thanks for keeping her in your prayers.
Thank you for all of your prayers for our ministry, too. They are definitely felt. Thanks for your generous financial support each month. With your help, we can continue to fulfill the ministry God has given us in Romania.
With our love,
Ruben, Karen & Bianca
Beraca Foundation, P.O. Box 674, Jacksonville, IL 62651; karenpopet@gmail.com