Sharing her passion at home

Estella Blank joined the Doulos in 2000, just after graduating from high school. Like many young people in Poland, she didn’t know what to do after school, and was encouraged by an OMer to join OM’s ship ministry. This became the turning point in Estella’s life, and since then she has never looked back.

After returned to Poland two years later to study, Estella joined an active church and has been involved in their numerous programmes since. She enjoys encouraging and challenging young people in their commitment to Christ through her own experiences on board the OM ship. Her own faith was greatly impacted during those two years, and is keen to pass on lessons learnt while on the Doulos.

STUDY PLANS CHANGED

Maria (18 years old) finished High School this year and couldn’t continue with her studies because the faculty she had applied for was closed. While wondering what to do next, she met Estella, who shared her experiences on the Doulos with her youth group this April. At first Maria didn’t think this was something she wanted to do, but while she was praying about her future, the ship came to mind and she decided to write to OM Poland to get more information. In August this year, Maria stepped out of her comfort zone and joined the STEP programme on Logos Hope. “I’m finally on the ship,” wrote Maria, “I met my ‘big sister’ and ‘mum’ and so many other people whose names I can’t remember. I’m so happy to finally be here. There is so much to learn. I’m thinking of returning to the ship longer term later. Please pray for me.”

A FIVE YEAR PROMISE FULFILLED

Paulina, another high school graduate, met Estella five years ago when Estella first returned from the Doulos. “Her eyes blinked when she shared her experiences on board the Doulos”, said Paulina. Paulina remembers telling her parents that when she turned 18, she would join the ship. A few months ago, her parents rang up OM Poland and asked about the possibility for Paulina to join the ship. In January 2010, Paulina will be onboard the Logos Hope to participate in the STEP programme.