Pauze - Pause - Rest
It started with just an idea: a time of rest for parents of children affected by disability; an outreach opportunity; a setting for families to interact, share, and experience God's love. This idea is now an exciting new ministry of Designed to Live, known as [PAUZE].
In Latvian, the word ‘pauze’ means to pause, to stop and rest. With the involvement of Latvian churches, the [PAUZE] ministry hopes to provide a time and place where parents can come and rest for a short time, while their children are being cared for with love. The aim is to provide events of encouragement, hope, and demonstrate the love of Jesus Christ to these families.
The first event took place at Vīlandes Baptist Church in Riga on November 27. Church support and involvement in this ministry has been overwhelming and exciting. The theme for this first event was ‘Spa Day’. We wanted to create a spa-like atmosphere for parents to come and relax while their children were cared for and entertained. The decorating team transformed the church building into a beautiful spa setting, complete with candles, relaxing scents, flowers, and room dividers for 7 private massage stations.
Each station was staffed with a massage professional from local spas and therapy centers. They generously donated their time and expertise to serve the parents for this event. Each guest was able to enjoy a 45 minute massage with a full spa treatment. Each therapist demonstrated a very professional and compassionate service towards each parent.
While waiting, other parents had the opportunity to relax in a ‘quiet ro
om’ with tea, soothing music and comfortable seating. Around tables, parents enjoyed sharing similar struggles, fears, & concerns in raising children with disabilities. While decorating glass Christmas ornaments, they found hope and encouragement from others going through similar struggles.
In another part of the building, children were lovingly cared for and entertained by volunteers. Each helper used their ingenuity and creativy to provide individualized enjoyment and care for each child; playing ball, making crafts, clapping and dancing to music. Each volunteer was genuine and enthusiastic in their care. They took great effort in engaging each child in their abilities, showing no hesitance in dealing with conditions unfamiliar to them. They embraced each child as if they were the most important gift God had created and there were no limitations to the 3 hours of amuzement. Parents didn't worry. They could sense the volunteer’s enthusiasm and authentic care. They enjoyed the evening knowing their children were in a safe environment and were being cared for by loving friends.
This evening was spectacular for all involved! This unique event was successful because of volunteer help, creativity, and organization by the Vīlandes church family. Everyone generously served with big smiles and open hearts serving each family in the best way possible. They were engaging, approachable, and accepting. A team of men were available to provide ‘’muscle help’’, ensuring guests could navigate safely around the building. An additional team prepared delicious gourmet food. They prepared dishes specific to dietary restrictions. The delicious treats closed out the evening, providing a time for everyone to come together for fellowship and celebration.
We explained that the evening was provided by Christians who care about those affected by disability and their caregivers and celebrate them for what they do everyday for their children. It was an expression of God's love.
There were many others that were there to listen, encourage, and love on families demonstrating God’s love. As our evening came to a close, parents expressed their joy and gratitude through smiles, tears, kind words, and some in silence. They expressed how grateful they were for this short time of relaxation and pampering. Massage professionals are excited for a future ‘Spa Day’ event, while parents are eagerly awaiting the next [PAUZE] event.
One of the main organizers told me, ‘’This evening I realized again, that God gives us the strength to demonstrate His love and make an impact on other’s lives.’’ I am thankful that this first PAUZE event was a success and pray it will be the first of many to come! I pray that the families that were involved felt the love of Jesus Christ and that His glory will be shown through all future PAUZE events. I am thankful for a Church that recognizes the needs around them and encourages everyone to be a part of the Church. I am thankful that my Latvian friends who use their talents in such unselfish ways in helping those in their community. I pray this evening provided encouragement, love, and a short time of rest for the parents and children involved.
