Alex Printis

What happens to refugee children who have left the security of their parents for a better life in Europe?

The unstable and unsafe environments in countries Syria, Afghanistan, Turkey, as well as some African countries, have encouraged children to leave their parents—for those who have any—in hopes of bettering their future. The good news is that they don’t have to be entirely alone. I, along with other volunteers, have had the honour of mentoring some 144 boys in Greece, several of whom I still actively keep in touch with from my current home in Germany. With our help, we hope to see these children not only survive, but thrive in their new and uncertain environments, giving them the future they so desire.   

I want to see boys grow to become respectful and honourable men – something that comes with having quality role models in their lives. The reason I moved to Europe was to specifically walk alongside these boys as a mentor to those who don’t currently have father figures to look up to. I help them with the sometimes-difficult transition into a new culture, and to be a friend when they need one the most. Most importantly, I adopt the role of an earthly father to help introduce these boys to their heavenly Father. 

Why God chose me for this ministry remains a mystery, but the fact that remains is that He did, and it has since been on my heart. Over the years, He has prepared me for this role of working with children through lessons in patience, loving unconditionally, and leaving my comfort zone, all of which are necessary in this line of work.  

Although I’ve only just begun what I hope will be a long and fruitful ministry, I’ve already seen God at work! Within my first year, I’ve been developing a friendship with a refugee who I met three years ago. We’ve played games, watched some movies, and have had some good talks about purpose and the meaning of life. It saddens me that he’s dealing with certain struggles, but it’s also been a wonderful opportunity to pour into his life and encourage him, sharing my beliefs, their importance, and why I have them. To see him find his purpose in the Lord would be an amazing testimony! I’m grateful to have the opportunity to be part of the seed-planting process in this man’s life, and look forward to having more impactful encounters! 

I am unable to do this without the help of supporters! Prayer support has been so important, but so has financial. With your donations, I am able to cover basic living expenses, buy sporting equipment for use with the youth, and travel to help maintain the relationships I’ve developed with the refugees from the time I volunteered in Greece. If you’d like to see these kids raised with godly mentors, more boldly prepared for what life has to offer them, would you consider partnering with me?