Charis Around the World

Life In Ukraine
Anne Sokol

Reflections

Dear Charis Family,

This month I attended my third birth as a doula, and I'm spending time gathering the necessary paperwork to turn in to take the final exam for Charis childbirth educator and doula certification.

Reflecting back on my months of studying this part of my Charis studies, I have many happy, fulfilling memories. I have loved the hours of reading and study, and I’m so thankful for the knowledge and support Kristin and Susan and other graduates and students have given me. Studying with Charis has opened up opportunities for me to teach four couples about childbirth and be a doula for three births and even “doula” a friend during her miscarriage. And the varied situations arising from my clients have spurred me on to continue being a diligent student.

Looking forward to the future, with putting this intense study and certification time behind me, I am shifting into another phase of ministry. I would dearly love to begin training other Ukrainian women to teach birth preparation classes and to perform doula work. One person is so limited in outreach and the need is so great. The potential is tremendous—and not just for Ukraine! How I would love to see Charis reaching into the nations surrounding Ukraine as well!

Pregnancy, childbirth, and new parenthood are such open times; people are so eager to learn and make changes, not just physically, but spiritually. It’s an incredible way to reach into the lives of unsaved people, as well as providing invaluable service to brothers and sisters in Christ.

Translating Charis’ materials into Russian is very do-able. I can’t do it myself, but I am eager to facilitate the translation and starting of this program in Russian-speaking countries. If the Lord burdens you, maybe there is something He would have you give towards the translation of Charis materials into the Russian language.

Love, Anne