In September, I was blessed to reunite with teammates from Partners Relief and Development as we spent time together as a team. It was refreshing to see my team after one year of being apart; reflecting on moments in the Middle East and more! We are all hoping to return to the Middle East as each of us are [for now] allowing the Lord to prepare us in whatever way necessary for the days ahead!

Siva, who translated for us while in Iraq, is continuing the work of women’s health and education and building further relationships with the women there! It’s amazing to see her empowered now leading the program that was started for these women last year. Earlier this summer I attended two-week long trainings with the Children’s Rescue Initiative where the group trained in freeing children from slavery and being a first responder in emergency medical situations. In addition to that, I have started a year-long master’s program with the focus on Refugee Care through the University of Essex, England.

I am excited to continue to learn online throughout this year in helping refugees from all nations!

~ Jenna Biernesser