December 23 began tensely for the Khmelnytskyi region. Sirens sounded early in the morning, the news reported another air attack, and many families once again faced a familiar choice—stay at home or go to a shelter. On a day like that, it’s easy to feel discouraged and say, “Maybe we should postpone…”

And to be honest, at first, we were a little upset. It felt like our Christmas celebration at one of the rural schools might not happen. The children were waiting for the all-clear—some stayed at home; others were in shelters. Everything depended on how quickly the danger would pass.

But the celebration did happen.

When the all-clear finally came and the children started arriving, we realized something: that day we weren’t just holding an event—we were protecting the joy of childhood that war tries to steal. In the school hall, voices and laughter returned, along with applause. No attack could ruin the joy of Christmas.

We didn’t have a big production or a stage—and maybe that’s what made the gathering feel especially real and alive. We sang carols, played Christmas songs, and spent a lot of time with the kids—fun contests, simple team challenges, kind jokes, and genuine smiles. And then, most importantly, we shared the Christmas story: the story of the One who came into the world not in luxury or safety, but among ordinary people, to bring light, hope, and peace into our hearts. Then, just as now, the world was unsettled—but the coming of the Savior brought a hope that cannot be put out.

That day, 170 children heard more than music and holiday greetings—we wanted them to feel that they are remembered and not alone. That Christmas isn’t only for “when everything is calm,” but that when it’s dark, it matters even more to light a candle.

For our team, this became the beginning of our Christmas outreach. We believe: if Christ came into the world on a night when everything was far from perfect, then we can bring His joy to places where it’s needed most.

The enemy may damage power lines, but it is powerless against the light of the Star of Bethlehem shining in children’s hearts. May the Lord protect our children, our families, and our schools. And may Christmas remind us: light is stronger than darkness.

Christ is born! Let us glorify Him!