Since the founding of Olive Branch International after the fall of Communism in Russia, we have sought to serve the humanitarian needs of military personnel and their families around the world. During the 20th Century, the peoples of Central Europe and the Commonwealth of Independent States suffered abuse in every imaginable form. These abuses ran the gamut from the physical, emotional, sexual, social, political, or ethnic to the psychological, cultural, moral, or spiritual. As with any other victims of abuse, such personal boundary intrusions resulted in devaluation, toxic shame, and chronic wounds to the essential worth and dignity of human beings created in the image of God.
The humanitarian services of the Olive Branch International are - at bottom - a ministry of healing, restoration, and/or strengthening to the dignity of fellow human beings who have endured a soul-destroying history. We seek to foster positive transformation within the contexts of their own societies and faith groups. Our fundamental regard for their dignity enables us to freely respect their identity.
Olive Branch International is particularly committed to military members and their families. As the Central European and CIS nations have reconfigured their militaries toward increased accountability to civilian authority and genuine respect for the basic citizenship status of conscripts as well as officers, fundamental human dignity continues to be a crucial issue. Therefore, OBI programs that model and advocate the moral imperative of dedicated regard for human dignity have significant potential import with institutions as well as individuals. Moreover, this process develops enormous trust and credibility over time that well serves the cause of preparing hearts for deeper communion with God.
OBI purposed to meet and network with individuals and families, primarily in international military communities, through service projects, delivery of humanitarian aid, conferences, training and friendship to foster bonds of friendship. OBI is an association of those who understand that the well-being of the military community has a peace dividend as former rivals/adversaries work for the common good of their soldier/sailor/airman and their families.
From OBI’s beginning in 1994, we have discovered these basic tenets to be true in all militaries with whom we have worked. Now in the 21st century, Olive Branch is carrying this process into Asia, South Asia, Africa, as well as the continuing work in East Europe. Blessed are those who provide food for the hungry and water for the thirsty. So, too, are those who comfort strangers, and visit prisoners. By meeting the needs of military personnel and their families, we accomplish the great compassion in the large brotherhood of those that serve in the militaries of the world.
