When Karim* smiles, you cannot see the suffering he carries in his heart. But the pain and anger are there, and they have left deep wounds in his soul. Time and again, the boy had to watch as his father beat Karim’s mother, each time more violently and more cruelly. His father did not spare Karim or his brother either. After years of abuse, his mother finally fled with her last remaining strength, taking her two sons with her to save their lives. They moved in with their grandmother, and while the physical wounds began to heal, the burden of the emotional scars came to the surface.

Karim withdrew into himself. He stopped speaking, was afraid of adults, and startled at loud noises. The attention and care of the Christians from the local Hope Center brought the first ray of light into his life. The brothers and sisters in Christ recognized the family’s need and offered help, especially for the children. Their love created a place of safety and security where Karim could finally breathe again. The believers invited him and his younger brother to attend a summer camp, and their mother allowed them to go, hoping her children could experience a piece of a “normal” childhood, days filled with joy, rest, and care.

The summer camp truly became an unforgettable experience for Karim. Yet it was not only the games and the joyful fellowship that touched him, but especially the Bible lessons, where he heard about Jesus Christ for the first time. One topic in particular stayed with him: forgiveness. The truth that God can forgive people their sins and desires to do so reached the deepest parts of his soul. It marked the beginning of change.

Karim, who had been afraid of adults and had barely spoken a word, approached his group leader, asked to talk, and quietly said:

“I know that I need to forgive my dad, just as Jesus has forgiven me. But it’s so hard. Would you pray for me that God would help me do that?”

Karim had understood that forgiveness is possible, and his desire to forgive was the beginning of healing. The local church will continue to care for him and pray that God works in his heart, gives him the strength to forgive, and frees him from the burden of the suffering he has endured.

His encounter with Jesus Christ at summer camp was only the beginning, the beginning of a living hope for Karim and his family.

70% of the children come from families with no connection to evangelical churches or who have never heard of Jesus Christ. When children hear about Jesus, it can be the beginning of transformation, not only in their own lives but also in the lives of their families.

You can make that possible! Support summer camps and give children the opportunity to encounter Jesus Christ. For thousands of children and their families, it can be the beginning of a living hope.

*Name changed

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