Joyful News from Ukraine — CTSS Counseling Center Graduation
Beginning in March 2022, The Outreach Foundation has come alongside the College of Theology and Social Sciences (CTSS) in Warsaw, Poland. However, our knowledge of each other began months before, in October, 2021. I recall vividly the conversation Bob Fuller, pastor of First Presbyterian San Antonio and Outreach board member, and I had about this “little college” in the heart of Eastern Europe that was doing great things. I was intrigued but had no idea where this would go.
Fast forward to March and it was clear that God intended this connection to help families who had come to Warsaw seeking refuge from the war in Ukraine. What wonderful things CTSS did for 150 people! Through spring, summer, and fall families who came here have been able to take positive steps in recovery. All were fed, clothed, and given shelter. Children were educated. We helped them feel human again. We helped them have dignity.
In some cases, families have been reunited in Ukraine. Others have found jobs and apartments with the help of CTSS. 19 families remain, each live in the annexed regions of eastern Ukraine. The adults work either at the college or in Warsaw. The children are attending schools. It has been nice to see that life for them has moved on! Thanks to each church and donor who helped make this happen.
However, disaster response is not central to the mission of either The Outreach Foundation or CTSS. We obeyed in the moment, but we wondered what may be next. In June, CTSS laid out a bold vision to launch a counseling center, which opened this week. It is called Novus Center and will host counseling appointments for war-affected children and adults. This will be a significant need for a long time. The Outreach Foundation was pleased to help support this effort as a long-term approach to war relief. It is the only center of its kind in this region.
Also in June, CTSS launched it’s first post-graduate certification program in counseling. We have heard from various schools in this region that counseling training is a critical need. Thinking that perhaps 50 people may register, CTSS was overwhelmed to have over 500 people attend the first phase of the course! This phase focused on self-help and was offered in Russian, Ukrainian, and Polish. The second and third phases of the program were for those who want to help others. They received a total of 270 hours post-graduate level training.
On Saturday, November 20, Bob Fuller and I attended the graduation ceremony for 60+ graduates. These graduates, who already have psychology degrees, are now trained in PTSD and trauma counseling, and can receive licensing by their respective countries. That CTSS has EU accreditation makes this possible.
As I reflect on this amazing journey with CTSS, I’m brought to that place in Scripture where Jesus says those who are born of the Spirit don’t know where God is going to lead us. Following the Spirit together with CTSS has been just like this! It is a privilege to witness the impact God is having here. And together we dream of so much more.
A short video of the closing dance!
What next? CTSS begins a second counseling course in February and already there are many people who have registered. This includes some psychology students in Lithuania who will work alongside Ukrainians at our partner, City Church. Outreach has also been able to designate scholarships for Ukrainian families to receive counseling at Novus Center. Thirdly, CTSS has agreed to serve as a launching and debriefing point for our teams that will provide assistance in Ukraine once we are given the green light to do this difficult work. Their students will accompany our teams so that we are helping together. We look forward to a bright future with CTSS!
Rev. Dr. Tom Boone
Associate Director for Mission
Read more about partners in Ukraine HERE.
THE OPPORTUNITY
Please continue to pray for all who are suffering greatly through this war. The long-term impact on them is going to be significant. Pray that the CTSS Novus Center will continue to provide healing and hope. If you wish to give a financial gift to help fund the Novus Center, please indicate “CTSS Novus Center” on your donation. You may give HERE or by sending a check to our office.