HYC Novosibirsk: Phoebe Volkmar

"Being a part of something so wonderful, such as Hope Youth Corps, is an honor and great privilege. HYC is packed with fellowship, lessons, activities, and service. Considering all that we do in such a short amount of time, it can be difficult to let everything sink in. Now that I have been back for almost a week, I've been able to reflect on the experiences I had in Russia. It recently has hit me how richly blessed I am to be able to serve in a whole new country. I was just listening to an artist, James Bay, who I was introduced to by my new and very close friend I met on youth corps, Ailex Lloyd. When I was listening to him, I was also looking through my pictures from the trip, and then a wave came over me allowing me to feel truly blessed. I am so grateful for the opportunity to meet new brothers and sisters from around the world and serve together, as well as having the same common goal for Christ.

Experiencing the Russian culture was so eye opening. Having to translate between Russian and English for all of the lessons was definitely frustrating at times, but absolutely amazing. I can't even imagine how tiring it was for the translator. I am so amazed by how serving Britain Yakovleva was and what a great help and addition she was to our group. Listening to the worship in Russian was also beautiful even though I couldn't sing along. The Russian church was very welcoming, encouraging, and serving. I am so grateful to have met such amazing sisters who I was able to bond with despite the language barrier.
If you ever have the chance to go on a mission trip, do it. Mission trips can change your life incredibly if you allow them to. God is powerful and at work. I was also very lucky to have been able to serve with Kyle Bolender as my boyfriend. It was truly a gift and privilege that not many couples get to experience. I am so grateful to have a man who puts God first and can lead me spiritually.

There is so much to say about HYC Russia, but I want to end by thanking God and everyone else who made it so impacting. God is so good, so powerful, so big, so loving, and all around so perfect. I am eternally grateful for the new adventures, experiences, and lessons he has given me. I feel so loved by him and I am so encouraged by a ll the support and love from the kingdom."