This year, in the Christian faith, December 1 marked the beginning of Advent. Advent, which in Latin means Coming or Arrival is a time when Christians all over the world prepare their hearts for the birth of the Messiah. During each of the four weeks there is a different focus in preparing the believer’s heart for Christ’s arrival: hope, peace, joy and love. Historians have traced the first Advent celebrations back to the 5th Century in Italy.
The first week of Advent focuses on Hope. During 2024, we at Tying Vines, through our many projects and our many partners working all over the globe, are thankful that we have seen families gain renewed hope. As we reflect on this past year, we want to share a few stories of hope.
Halfway around the world, there is a young man who has been connected to Tying Vines since 2020. An Iranian refugee in the Republic of Georgia, he was provided with a camera and drone equipment so that he might support himself through the use of his photography and technical skills. Now in Armenia after losing his asylum case in Georgia, he is saving and raising funds to attend college in the United States where he plans to study digital media. Hope.
There is the Uber driver in Georgia, who cares for and serves many people in his region. He was provided with a car and is able to care for his family and others.
As the work through Tying Vines spreads, there are hundreds of beautiful stories of hope. These stories of hope begin with help for one person or family. The gift then reaches far beyond the one, offering hope to others.
This week, the week dedicated to Peace, we are reminded of the Angels’ message given so long ago.
“Peace on Earth. Good will to All People.”
God bless you and your families this holiday season.
The School of Peace provides Gaza refugee children with education, daily meals and a safe space to heal, helping restore
The School of Peace provides Gaza refugee children with education, daily meals and a safe space to heal, helping restore
The School of Peace provides Gaza refugee children with education, daily meals and a safe space to heal, helping restore
