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, 2021
Dear Friends,
As we are writing this newsletter, the temperature has dropped drastically, and it is snowing very heavily. During the break between semesters, we went with the children and teenagers to the mountains for sledding and skiing. Unfortunately, we picked the wrong day to go. When we arrived, it was snowing/sleeting. The wind was blowing very hard. Manu skied for a short time and the children sledded. But, we did not stay long. It was disappointing for everyone. They did get to go sledding for a few days in our village. It is so nice to have the sledding hill right by the orphanage.
Second semester started this week. Some of the children are going in person and some are at home. This may change next week as more may be going in person. Ramona, one of our staff, does a great job making sure that everyone does their homework. She also does extra work with the children, so no one falls behind. We are so thankful for her.
The food bank continues to serve 20-30 families a week. We are still buying most of the food that we give away. We have been given a few donations from an organization in Timisoara which helps a lot. The people are thankful for the food and clothes. It is a joy for us to be able to bless them.
Last weekend we went to see a waterfall and visit a park in a nearby village. The waterfall was especially beautiful because of so much water that was entering into it from the mountain. The park had a small zipline that the children loved. There were also life-size animals that you could climb up on. Everyone had a good time sitting on them and taking lots of pictures. It was a beautiful day outside. We were glad that we took advantage of it.
Karen is going to the USA on February 19 for her six-month control after her surgeries. She will be returning on March 15. She must have a negative COVID-19 test to be able to enter the USA. This test will be on February 17. Please pray for her test, travels and easy entry through the different country’s borders she will go through. Also, please pray for her tests in America that everything is clear and that the results are negative. Your prayers are so important to us.
Thank you for your prayers for our work in Romania, too. They are felt here. And, thank you for your financial gifts. They allow us to continue doing God’s work in Romania. May God bless you in many ways.
With our love,
Ruben, Karen and Bianca
Beraca Foundation, P.O. Box 674, Jacksonville, IL 62651; karenpopet@gmail.com