Semenchenko, Raisa

Description

Tell about your childhood, school, family, etc.

I was born into a family of workers. I did very well in secondary school and also in music school, majoring in accordion. My family had an atmosphere of love for me and I always felt supported by my family. After school, I first graduated from a music academy in Vinnytsia and then from a conservatory in Donetsk.

Where did you work? Was your work good? Were you happy with your job?

I worked as a music teacher at a school. Additionally, I taught advanced art history courses. I worked in Mariupol in this position for 35 years until the full-scale invasion. I loved my job very much, constantly improved my skills, studied additional computer modern technologies. I had respect and honors from the administration.

Tell about your present life.

In March 2022, I was forced to leave Mariupol because of the occupation, shelling, and bombing. Because of this, I suffered a severe psychological trauma and was undergoing treatment for a long time. My family lives in Ukraine. I worked for a long time, but due to my age and health condition, I cannot work anymore. I receive a pension and have a little support from my family members. Now I live in a rented apartment in Kyiv.

Have you accepted Christ? How long have you been following the Lord?

I have always believed in God, read prayers and attended services. I have always known that God supports me and leads me on the right path. I trust in Him alone.

Tell about one thing your sponsor needs to know about you.

II always try to observe how God helps me. And I love everything created by people in art: architecture, churches, cathedrals, and other religious structures.