Wandanalu!

After spending around two days in travel (45 hours), we made it to Ongole. My feet were swollen from travel, and our team was exhausted. Soon after we arrived, we were blessed by an Indian meal, and introduced to SCH (Sarah’s Covenant Home). Erin, our main contact at SCH, shared with us the heart and work of the home.
 
SCH works to meet the needs of 82 –soon to be 97 special needs orphans. In India, children with special needs are seen as a curse and burden to their parents, and often are seen as worthless.  SCH takes these otherwise disregarded children into its facility and wraps them with the love of Christ. The volunteer staff works to meet the needs of children—physical, emotional, spiritual, and educational. The needs of the children vary, but SCH does all they can to meet the needs of the children.

Erin’s love and dedication to these children is incredible. Not only does she help run the facility during the day, but she also takes in children who need extra attention into her own apartment. I feel honored and excited at  the prospect of working with such a noble organization. When I commended Erin for her work, she simply responded by saying  she couldn’t imagine doing anything else. I was moved by her love.

After our first Indian meal, we went to SCH to visit the children. Wow was I overwhelmed. When I walked into the courtyard I was received with incredible warmth and excitement. The first child I interacted with, Wendy, was filled with exploding  laugher and love to share.  Children would crawl into your arms to receive affection, and bless you with kisses.At one point i think there were a total of five children crawling on top of me! I met a precious little boy named Joshua, they call him Charlie Brown beause of the little tuft of hair he has on the front of his head. His smile is profound, wide, and joyful–it seemed more like a…heart smile. Interacting with these kids both challenged and encouraged me. Their faith is beautiful! Although they do not know me, they trust that I will treat them with love and compassion. I, having known Christ long enough to see his faithfulness often distrust his goodness. I honestly believe that these children have more to teach me than I do them.

On another note, my team is wonderful. I truly believe these six women will leave an indelible mark in my life. If you can, please pray that Christ would strengthen us. In addition pray for SCH, as they are taking in 18 more children.

You all are wonderful,
Francesca Bugeja

This is Lydia, a four year old girl with CP who has touched my heart. When I put my hand just above her and she grabs my hand. When i lift her up ans spin her around she giggles sweetly.  I wish i could take her, and all the kids for that matter, home with me. I do not understand why anyone would abandon such a sweet baby girl.