On one hand, 10 years is not much for a ministry with a broad vision, such as Wings for Wheels. We have only taken the first steps in order to become familiar with the third largest country of the world formed by people with disabilities from all over the world.
Yet on the other hand, 10 years has been a long enough time to work with God and leave a permanent mark on lives of people in Latvia (and not only). As a result of ministry by Wings for Wheels many people with disabilities have been able to hear the Good News and accept Jesus Christ as their Lord and Saviour. We speak to Christians through publications, mass media and awareness events to help them see people with disabilities through God’s eyes. Our website and e-journal “Wings for Wheels” serve as sources for information, education and inspiration. We organise small groups for people with physical impairments, and we also visit the people in care homes. Vision of Wings for Wheels has inspired people in Norway, Armenia and even Africa! Even though we are still at the beginning of the road, the work we have done and what we have experienced during 10 years of existence of Wings for Wheels is much and worthy to be celebrated in honour to God.
Birthday celebration of Wings for Wheels took place on June 16 – 18 at the guest house “Vecmuiža”. The first day was a “team day” when we as the staff of the ministry took our time to fellowship and be immersed in common memories, worship, prayers and merry games. The next day right after breakfast we set about preparing for arrival of guests. We had sent invitations to everyone who had been involved with Wings for Wheels in any way during these ten years: wheth
er as participants of camps and other events, assistants, volunteers, churches, donors, etc. We wanted this celebration to be a possibility to meet old friends and get to know people who might become participants, volunteers or cooperation partners of our future camps.
Even though only a small part of all invited people could arrive, yet the joy was not diminished because of it. Everyone (almost) knew everyone, and together we rejoiced to see each other. Our birthday was akin to a gathering of a large family. Guests could leave their well wishes and suggestions in our guest book, take photographs by a specially created wall with Wings for Wheels logo, participate in creation of a joint drawing, purchase books published by Wings for Wheels and otherwise have a good time. Official part of the event was focused on remembering the beginnings of the ministry, and we looked at photos and videos of the previous camps. We also remembered our friends whom God has already brought home to Himself. Later, after a bountiful meal, the gathered guests were offered an opportunity to share how Wings for Wheels has influenced their life and view. We brought the celebration to conclusion with a delicious, especially baked cake and our gratitude to God for His great love and surprising plans for us all.
Wings for Wheels team would like to thank everyone who came to celebration and everyone who regularly supports us in different ways. May God bless you abundantly and reward each one who has contributed and will in future do so towards implementation of the vision of Wings for Wheels in helping people with disabilities to know Christ and make Him known.