My name is Dasha, I am 15 years old.I study at a Christian school and live in a Christian children’s home. Before I came here, I lived with my grandmother. Life with her was very difficult — we often argued, and I felt very lonely.

When I joined a junior group at church, I first learned about God — that He is always with me, that He helps me, and that He loves me. That was probably the first time I truly felt loved. It was hard to believe, because my grandmother often said hurtful things to me.

When I was around 13 and already living in the children’s home, I decided to take a serious step — to receive the Holy Spirit. I prayed, made a prayer of repentance, confessed all my sins to God, and asked Him to accept me and fill me with His Spirit. It was a very difficult time after my father passed away, and I sincerely asked God for forgiveness and strength. That’s when I truly felt God’s love.

Now I see that love through the people around me — my caregivers, my coach, and friends at church. They show me that I am valued and cared for. I think my life would be empty without God, without these people, and without being in this faith-filled environment. Here, I finally experienced true care and support.

I am very grateful to have come here, to have found faith, and to have learned who God is. Comparing my life “before” and “after,” it has completely changed. I used to think that children’s homes were scary places because my grandmother told me about harsh treatment. But here, I see something completely different. The children are cheerful, the caregivers are kind and loving. Of course, there are challenges, as in any family, but the overall atmosphere is one of care and support. Whenever we face difficulties, the caregivers protect us, listen, and help. Our coordinators are amazing people — without them, I might have lost my way.

I enjoy studying at school. I also practice sports and focus on my studies. I want to finish school and attend a physical education program to become a coach. I have been doing athletics for four years. A few years ago, I prayed that my coach would come to church. Two months ago, it happened — he now attends services every Sunday. I was overjoyed and thanked God.

It fills me with joy to see more and more people come to God and realize that life with Him is beautiful. I am so happy to be part of this journey.