A Christmas Filled With Joy, Love, and the Message of Jesus

A Christmas play, a message of hope, and the story of Jesus helped children discover the true meaning of Christmas and the joy found in Him.
Nadia Claassen
30th August 2026
Children in an audience smile brightly.

The Secret of a Happy Heart

Christmas is a season of hope, peace, and joy. But for many children living in children's homes across Ukraine, those feelings can seem far away.

Many have experienced loss, family breakdown, neglect, or circumstances beyond their control. Yet last Christmas, they were reminded of something life-changing: they are loved by God and they are not forgotten.

Mission Without Borders Ukraine, together with volunteer students from a local seminary, visited children's homes to share the story of Jesus' birth through a special Christmas programme called The Secret of a Happy Heart. Alongside gifts and sweets, the children heard the greatest gift of all, the message of hope found in Christ.

"I want to bring them fun and joy. This helps to give them the strength they need to keep going."
Inna, Christian Outreach Coordinator

For many children, it was more than just a festive celebration. It was an opportunity to experience joy, encouragement, and the love of Jesus.

On a Christmas-decorated stage, people dressed as characters from the Christmas story stand around a narrator who is holding posters depicting scenes from the Nativity.

Sharing the Hope of Christmas

For Inna, who coordinates Christian Outreach for Mission Without Borders Ukraine, every visit is an opportunity to remind children that God sees them, knows them, and cares deeply for them.

"We let the children know that they can tell Jesus Christ about their needs. He hears us, He helps us, and most importantly, He gives us eternal life." Inna

Last year's Christmas play helped children explore their emotions while discovering the true source of lasting joy: Jesus Christ.

"We tell the children the story of how more than 2,000 years ago, the Saviour of the world was born," Inna explains.

The team encouraged the children to bring their fears, worries, and pain to Jesus.

A volunteer with Christmas gifts in his hands, walk towards excited children.

More Than a Visit

The impact of these visits extends far beyond a single day.

Many of the children living in these homes struggle with loneliness, sadness, and a lack of positive relationships. According to teacher Ms Galina, moments of encouragement and genuine care can have a lasting effect.

"Every encounter with people who not only help us materially, but who also bring warmth, affection, and God's Word to the children, is a joy and a great blessing."
Ms Galina, a teacher at a children's home in Ukraine

She says the children often talk about these visits long after they are over, reflecting on what they heard and learned.

For children who may feel overlooked or forgotten, these moments communicate a powerful truth:

You are loved. You matter. You are not alone.

A young girl with brown bangs and a blue fluffy jacket stands in front of a brightly lit, colourful Christmas tree, looking at the camera with a gentle smile.

A Child's Christmas Wish

Among the children attending the programme was Khristina, a fourth-grade student who especially enjoyed the character of the Heart in the play.

"The heart was sad at first, but then it started to rejoice when it heard the story of Jesus." Khristina, Grade 4 Student

She loves Christmas for its beauty, gifts, and celebrations. But when asked what she would most like for Christmas, her answer reflected the reality facing so many children in Ukraine today.

"I would ask God for the war to end, and that no one would hurt our country anymore."

Behind every child is a story. Behind every smile is a hope for a brighter future.

Despite the challenges around her, Khristina left the event smiling.

Two girls sit on a bed surrounded by sweet packets, hugging each other while each holds a packet of sweets.

Help More Children Experience God's Love

Across Eastern Europe, vulnerable children are facing some of life's hardest circumstances. Through your support, they can receive practical care, loving encouragement, and opportunities to hear the Good News of Jesus Christ.

Every gift helps bring hope to a child who needs it most.

Will you help more children discover the secret of a happy heart this Christmas?


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