The blog will be updated when we return to the states. These last few days have been long and shown much progress. We have the entire sanctuary dry walled, the steps framed, the steeple area sealed, the benches painted, and the extra rooms framed in. Tonight we had a special dinner which is like shish kebob. It is called shashlik. Many people form the church joined us and we shared a special time together. It will be an emotional parting for many of us tomorrow morning. We will leave Lesosibirsk at around 9 a.m. to go to Krasnoyarsk. We will have time to see some of that city, spend the night, and fly to Moscow on Saturday morning. There we will have a tour of the city and hopefully visit a market for some souvenirs. Since Lesosibirsk is not a tourist town, souvenirs are not to be found.
The faith of the Russian brothers and sisters is very humbling. We have been thanked many times for being here, helping build their house of prayer, the Reconciliation Church. The prayers of many have been essential to this project. The hand of God has been evident everywhere.
Thank you.
Thursday, July 31, 2008
Monday, July 28, 2008
The days are passing quickly.....
I Corinthians 10:31 "Whether, then, you eat or drink or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God."
This is what we must keep in mind each day as we begin working and throughout the work day. This building is a place of worship, a house of prayer, for the Russian people. All the glory goes to God.
Monday night. We started this morning shortly after 8 a.m. with devotions by Jared. Once again patience was mentioned. We have only 3 days left to work and so much we'd like to get done. We need patience for the tasks to be completed, patience when working with others, patience with the many changes that can take place during the course of the day.
Today they started digging for the foundation for the main steps using an excavator and man power. It rained and is very muddy. The men had to help push the truck out when it got stuck. We started painting the benches a soft cream color and they are looking good. Dry wall is still being installed on the ceiling and side walls. The upstairs area under the steeple entrance has some flooring installed and more to go.
One of today's highlights was the arrival of the television crew. Two men came and took video and also interviewed a few men. We noted that no women were interviewed. They did videotape the women working on the benches though. Dan demonstrated the operation of the nail gun.
The other highlight was a special treat for lunch. The head architect of Lesosibirsk, a woman who has worked her way up to this position, came to the site. She had a part in the design, I believe. She brought borscht for us and a fry bread that could be dipped in sweetened condensed milk. It was an unexpected gift and very appreciated. This was in addition to our regular meal. We are not going hungry! Sweetened condensed milk is used for many foods here as a topping like syrup or for dipping.
Sunday we were very pleased to see a very large crowd for church. The benches were full and there were a few people standing. Next week they will have all of the benches available. The team sang two songs, one based on Micah 6:8 that Bob and Robin taught us. The second song was "In Christ Alone" and we could see some of the Russian brothers and sisters saying the words along with us. Richard, our team leader, gave the first message of the morning. There were also several songs led by two of the church members. People from the church also got up to share something with the members. Dan, another team member, also spoke during the service.
After church several people went to the local Chinese restaurant for lunch and then to see the Orthodox church. It is a very impressive building with gold towers and a very large landscaped area with a fence around it. Others went shopping and enjoyed pizza in a small cafe. It was a good day for relaxing and sightseeing.
Please continue praying for safety for the team and for continued progress. Also pray for the members of the Reconciliation Church.
This is what we must keep in mind each day as we begin working and throughout the work day. This building is a place of worship, a house of prayer, for the Russian people. All the glory goes to God.
Monday night. We started this morning shortly after 8 a.m. with devotions by Jared. Once again patience was mentioned. We have only 3 days left to work and so much we'd like to get done. We need patience for the tasks to be completed, patience when working with others, patience with the many changes that can take place during the course of the day.
Today they started digging for the foundation for the main steps using an excavator and man power. It rained and is very muddy. The men had to help push the truck out when it got stuck. We started painting the benches a soft cream color and they are looking good. Dry wall is still being installed on the ceiling and side walls. The upstairs area under the steeple entrance has some flooring installed and more to go.
One of today's highlights was the arrival of the television crew. Two men came and took video and also interviewed a few men. We noted that no women were interviewed. They did videotape the women working on the benches though. Dan demonstrated the operation of the nail gun.
The other highlight was a special treat for lunch. The head architect of Lesosibirsk, a woman who has worked her way up to this position, came to the site. She had a part in the design, I believe. She brought borscht for us and a fry bread that could be dipped in sweetened condensed milk. It was an unexpected gift and very appreciated. This was in addition to our regular meal. We are not going hungry! Sweetened condensed milk is used for many foods here as a topping like syrup or for dipping.
Sunday we were very pleased to see a very large crowd for church. The benches were full and there were a few people standing. Next week they will have all of the benches available. The team sang two songs, one based on Micah 6:8 that Bob and Robin taught us. The second song was "In Christ Alone" and we could see some of the Russian brothers and sisters saying the words along with us. Richard, our team leader, gave the first message of the morning. There were also several songs led by two of the church members. People from the church also got up to share something with the members. Dan, another team member, also spoke during the service.
After church several people went to the local Chinese restaurant for lunch and then to see the Orthodox church. It is a very impressive building with gold towers and a very large landscaped area with a fence around it. Others went shopping and enjoyed pizza in a small cafe. It was a good day for relaxing and sightseeing.
Please continue praying for safety for the team and for continued progress. Also pray for the members of the Reconciliation Church.
Saturday, July 26, 2008
Patience and Prayer
Ephesians 6:18 "Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, being watchful to this end with all perserverance. "
Friday morning started with devotions by Yvette about patience. Patience is something we all as a team need. Prayer is always needed, too.
On Friday the scaffolding was moved from the altar end of the church to the opposite end. More ceiling dry wall work was accomplished. The ladies went on a shopping trip for souvenirs in the morning. Lesosibirsk is not a tourist area so we found other items including fairy tale books that are just like our fairy tales, dolls and stuffed animals that say things in Russian, and Russian chocolate. We also found rabbit fur coats on sale for 8000 rubles, about $400. The shopping trip required a bus ride for 10 rubles per person each way. We met Oleg, a man from the church, on the return ride. Ira, a young woman who Bob and Robin befriended last year here in Lesosibirsk was working in one store and recognized Marianne, from last year's New York team. It was a joyful reunion for the 3 ladies. We returned to the job site in time for another delicious lunch. Later the salty snacks we had were also appreciated by all. We now know that the Pringles that are 99 cents in the U.S. are $4.00 a can here. Maybe that is why they tasted so good.
Friday devotions by Lynn focused on prayer. Prayer for the team's safety and progress, prayer for the Reconciliation Church project, prayer for the people of the church, prayer for Pastor Roma and his family. Also prayer is needed for the missionary familes serving in Russia who face many issues each day that we are unaware of.
Today's goal was to finish enough to be able to have church services in the building on Sunday and we accomplished it! We cannot give enough thanks and praise to God who has been our guide and protector and to all who have prayed for the team and project. The Russian brothers came to put the benches back into place when we left for the day.
On Friday evening we were invited to the men's rehab center sponsored by the church. Two young women served us tea and prayer was said for their upcoming trip to start a new women's rehab center in another city. We all had a chance to check out the banya, what we would call a sauna. There were 3 rooms that got progressively hotter. They also use hats to keep from making their head too hot! The evening was completed with a dinner at a local cafe for the team and translators. Pastor Roma and a few Russian brothers joined us for some fellowship.
Please keep Pastor Roma and his family in prayer as they are now on the way to Moscow for a seminar that he will attend. The trip will take about 3 days. We hope to meet them in Moscow next Saturday when we are on our return flight.
Friday morning started with devotions by Yvette about patience. Patience is something we all as a team need. Prayer is always needed, too.
On Friday the scaffolding was moved from the altar end of the church to the opposite end. More ceiling dry wall work was accomplished. The ladies went on a shopping trip for souvenirs in the morning. Lesosibirsk is not a tourist area so we found other items including fairy tale books that are just like our fairy tales, dolls and stuffed animals that say things in Russian, and Russian chocolate. We also found rabbit fur coats on sale for 8000 rubles, about $400. The shopping trip required a bus ride for 10 rubles per person each way. We met Oleg, a man from the church, on the return ride. Ira, a young woman who Bob and Robin befriended last year here in Lesosibirsk was working in one store and recognized Marianne, from last year's New York team. It was a joyful reunion for the 3 ladies. We returned to the job site in time for another delicious lunch. Later the salty snacks we had were also appreciated by all. We now know that the Pringles that are 99 cents in the U.S. are $4.00 a can here. Maybe that is why they tasted so good.
Friday devotions by Lynn focused on prayer. Prayer for the team's safety and progress, prayer for the Reconciliation Church project, prayer for the people of the church, prayer for Pastor Roma and his family. Also prayer is needed for the missionary familes serving in Russia who face many issues each day that we are unaware of.
Today's goal was to finish enough to be able to have church services in the building on Sunday and we accomplished it! We cannot give enough thanks and praise to God who has been our guide and protector and to all who have prayed for the team and project. The Russian brothers came to put the benches back into place when we left for the day.
On Friday evening we were invited to the men's rehab center sponsored by the church. Two young women served us tea and prayer was said for their upcoming trip to start a new women's rehab center in another city. We all had a chance to check out the banya, what we would call a sauna. There were 3 rooms that got progressively hotter. They also use hats to keep from making their head too hot! The evening was completed with a dinner at a local cafe for the team and translators. Pastor Roma and a few Russian brothers joined us for some fellowship.
Please keep Pastor Roma and his family in prayer as they are now on the way to Moscow for a seminar that he will attend. The trip will take about 3 days. We hope to meet them in Moscow next Saturday when we are on our return flight.
Thursday, July 24, 2008
“And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God and are called according to his purpose.” Romans 8:28
Wednesday morning started with devotions by Marianne. This time every morning helps us to focus on the project at hand and the work being done as part of God’s plan.
Today the floor of the sound room was finished and a knee wall built with a view of the altar area. There is also a room set aside on the second level for the night watchman and one for visiting pastors. The altar area dry wall was completed. Galia put the first coat of mud on it. This is her profession and it will be very helpful as the walls are completed. She is excellent at this task. The ceiling work is very slow. The scaffolding is about 18 feet high and there is much overhead work to be done. Leftover bricks were collected around the work site and used to complete pallets that can be resold. Each brick costs 12 rubles which is about 52 cents.
Lunch was again from the workman’s deli but today we had chicken and mashed potatoes. In addition to the stuffed cabbage breads we had apple filled ones. For our afternoon snack we had a fruit compote made with currants that Genadi , the night watchman, bought for us at the store. It was put on Russian ice cream. Delicious! Lunch for 20 people cost 1250 rubles. This is about $55, about $2.75 a person. It sure beat McDonald’s, too. The ice cream was 800 rubles.
That is $34.50.
Genadi has been a Christian for 3 years and was baptized this spring. He said that he lost many friends when he changed his style of life. He has been the night watchman at the new church site for the past two summers.
Thursday – The first week has gone by quickly. Dan’s devotion reminded us about how important the small things are that happen in our lives that we aren’t even aware of usually. It is our mighty God who is working out all those little details. Work has continued slowly but steadily today. The goal is to complete enough of the ceiling to be able to bring the pews back in for Sunday services. Otherwise people will meet in homes.
Today the floor of the sound room was finished and a knee wall built with a view of the altar area. There is also a room set aside on the second level for the night watchman and one for visiting pastors. The altar area dry wall was completed. Galia put the first coat of mud on it. This is her profession and it will be very helpful as the walls are completed. She is excellent at this task. The ceiling work is very slow. The scaffolding is about 18 feet high and there is much overhead work to be done. Leftover bricks were collected around the work site and used to complete pallets that can be resold. Each brick costs 12 rubles which is about 52 cents.
Lunch was again from the workman’s deli but today we had chicken and mashed potatoes. In addition to the stuffed cabbage breads we had apple filled ones. For our afternoon snack we had a fruit compote made with currants that Genadi , the night watchman, bought for us at the store. It was put on Russian ice cream. Delicious! Lunch for 20 people cost 1250 rubles. This is about $55, about $2.75 a person. It sure beat McDonald’s, too. The ice cream was 800 rubles.
That is $34.50.
Genadi has been a Christian for 3 years and was baptized this spring. He said that he lost many friends when he changed his style of life. He has been the night watchman at the new church site for the past two summers.
Thursday – The first week has gone by quickly. Dan’s devotion reminded us about how important the small things are that happen in our lives that we aren’t even aware of usually. It is our mighty God who is working out all those little details. Work has continued slowly but steadily today. The goal is to complete enough of the ceiling to be able to bring the pews back in for Sunday services. Otherwise people will meet in homes.
Tuesday, July 22, 2008
"For he will command his angels concerning you to guard you in all your ways…"
Monday morning brought the team to the worksite at 8 a.m. We started with prayer, devotions by David, and songs. The benches from church were used and then they were the first work of the day. They all had to be moved out the windows to the basement for storage. On Sunday they will have to be brought back up. We started with sawing the boards for lathe behind the dry wall, scaffolding was assembled and moved, and work was started on the altar area. It was a very hot day. Having the younger men on the team was very helpful for the high work especially with the heat. They worked a long day up in the roof area. Lunch on day 1 was a typical Russian borscht soup, meat, bulgur and bread from a local workmen’s deli.
Translators Tonya, Lena, and Vitale worked along with us. Lena has been on the worksite every day helping Bob Ivins communicate with the Russian men. All of us were very tired, dirty, and satisfied with all that was accomplished on this day.
Tuesday started with devotions by Carla who included many fond memories of last year. This year’s team of 12 includes 10 returnees from last year. That says much for the value of the project and the impact it is making on the American team members.
The trusses had to be leveled, some dry wall was put in place, and more insulation was put up. This would not be an OSHA approved work site! We had people sawing, people moving boards, people measuring lumber, scaffold work being done, cords everywhere, and snacks or lunch being put out. Sometimes these are all happening at once.
Just before lunch we had our first accident. A support board on the wall snapped and about a 5 foot section of scaffolding fell with 3 men and a sawhorse going down with it. No serious injuries resulted, only a few scrapes and bruises. It caused a quick stop in all other work while we checked things out. It wasn’t long before they had the board replaced and the scaffolding ready for work again.
We are staying in several homes and enjoying our Russian host families and learning more of their customs. The food is part of that experience. Today we had lunch for almost 20 people for 800 rubles. That is about $30 American dollars. We had a fried bread stuffed with cabbage which was called a pie, beef tips with gravy over rice, cabbage salad and fresh warm bread. It was delicious!
Please keep all of the team in prayer. We have been safe so far, but need your continued prayer for safety, physical strength, and good health. A couple of team members are suffering from colds and congestion, but so far there are no stomach ailments. Also pray for the project and the people of the Reconciliation Church. This is an effort not only of the people working here in Lesosibirsk, but also of those who have contributed financially, those who have supported a family member coming to Russia, and those who have continued to pray.
Psalm 91:9-11 "If you make the most High your dwelling – even the Lord, who is my refuge – then no harm will befall you, no disaster will come near your tent. For he will command his angels concerning you to guard you in all your ways…"
Translators Tonya, Lena, and Vitale worked along with us. Lena has been on the worksite every day helping Bob Ivins communicate with the Russian men. All of us were very tired, dirty, and satisfied with all that was accomplished on this day.
Tuesday started with devotions by Carla who included many fond memories of last year. This year’s team of 12 includes 10 returnees from last year. That says much for the value of the project and the impact it is making on the American team members.
The trusses had to be leveled, some dry wall was put in place, and more insulation was put up. This would not be an OSHA approved work site! We had people sawing, people moving boards, people measuring lumber, scaffold work being done, cords everywhere, and snacks or lunch being put out. Sometimes these are all happening at once.
Just before lunch we had our first accident. A support board on the wall snapped and about a 5 foot section of scaffolding fell with 3 men and a sawhorse going down with it. No serious injuries resulted, only a few scrapes and bruises. It caused a quick stop in all other work while we checked things out. It wasn’t long before they had the board replaced and the scaffolding ready for work again.
We are staying in several homes and enjoying our Russian host families and learning more of their customs. The food is part of that experience. Today we had lunch for almost 20 people for 800 rubles. That is about $30 American dollars. We had a fried bread stuffed with cabbage which was called a pie, beef tips with gravy over rice, cabbage salad and fresh warm bread. It was delicious!
Please keep all of the team in prayer. We have been safe so far, but need your continued prayer for safety, physical strength, and good health. A couple of team members are suffering from colds and congestion, but so far there are no stomach ailments. Also pray for the project and the people of the Reconciliation Church. This is an effort not only of the people working here in Lesosibirsk, but also of those who have contributed financially, those who have supported a family member coming to Russia, and those who have continued to pray.
Psalm 91:9-11 "If you make the most High your dwelling – even the Lord, who is my refuge – then no harm will befall you, no disaster will come near your tent. For he will command his angels concerning you to guard you in all your ways…"
Sunday, July 20, 2008
US Team Arrives in Lesosibirsk in Time for....Church!
The entire Us Team safely arrived at their final destination shortly after the church service had started. They joined in with the service. Dave Lawton had an opportunity to share from the scriptures. Although weary from traveling, all seemed happy to meet and/or reacquaint themselves with the Russian believers. After the service, the group enjoyed some pizza as details of where everyone would stay were worked out. Finally everyone went separate ways for some much needed rest.
Work will begin early tomorrow. Thank you for all of your prayers on our behalf. We should be updating this blog regularly for the next two weeks.
Work will begin early tomorrow. Thank you for all of your prayers on our behalf. We should be updating this blog regularly for the next two weeks.
Saturday, July 19, 2008
US Team safely arrived in Krasnoyarsk
At 5:30 AM Sunday morning the US Team safely landed in Krasnoyarsk. All bags were accounted for. Although some seemed tired, everyone was in good spirits. All of the lugguge was loaded into a truck and the team, translators and missionaries are traveling in several cars. They should arrive in Lesosibirsk sometime Sunday afternoon.
For those of you who are interested in the well-being of Marjorie Orr, she looks great, is using her Russian language skills, and currently breakfasting with a couple of missionaries before the final leg of the journey.
For those of you who are interested in the well-being of Marjorie Orr, she looks great, is using her Russian language skills, and currently breakfasting with a couple of missionaries before the final leg of the journey.
Team Safely Arrived in Moscow
We received a call from team member Dan Ritter, around 8:30 Siberia time that the team has safely arrived in Moscow. All luggage is accounted for! We, Bob and Robin Ivins and SEND missionary James Leschied will leave for the Krasnoyarsk airport at 4:oo AM Sunday morning to meet the team. We will all then travel the remaining 4 hours by car to Lesosibirsk. Transportation to Lesosibirsk for all team members and translators has been confirmed. We should arrive during the church service around 12:00 Sunday morning.
We will attempt to update here as soon as there is more news! Keep lifting up the prayers! Thanks for praying for all of us!
We will attempt to update here as soon as there is more news! Keep lifting up the prayers! Thanks for praying for all of us!
Thursday, July 17, 2008
1st Offficial Meeting in the New Building!
Last Saturday several church members came to the worksite to help with final construction of benches, re-arrange and sweep up. On Sunday we met together for worship. There were lots of people in attendance. It was a joyful time of coming together for praise and worship and a good opportunity to catch a glimpse of how sweet it will be when the construction is complete!
This week most of the church family is in the Krasnoyarsk area for the annual Festival. They attend biblical seminars, preaching services, and enjoy lots of music, food, and fellowship. Many of the families camp there for this week. On Tuesday there were approximately 1500 in attendance and they celebrated with a river baptism.
This coming Sunday, July 20, the SEND construction team from the US will arrive. We are excited to see what God will do through their hard work, prayers, and sacrificial giving of finances, time, and the comforts of home for the next two weeks. Please pray for their safety in travel and work. Also pray that the Russian church will be encouraged and strengthened by their brothers and sisters who come to work alongside of them to bring the Good News of the Gospel of Christ to this part of the world.
I may not be able to send update notifications in the next few weeks, but please be sure to check here for updates regularly. Today I will post photos including one of baby Vova…he is doing very well! His parents praise God and send thanks to those of you who have prayed for them and their child.
Our time here in Siberia is winding down. We (Bob and Robin Ivins) will be leaving with the SEND team on August 2. Please pray for much to be accomplished in the next 2 ½ weeks. The Lord said, “I will build my church…” so will trust Him with the outcome!
This week most of the church family is in the Krasnoyarsk area for the annual Festival. They attend biblical seminars, preaching services, and enjoy lots of music, food, and fellowship. Many of the families camp there for this week. On Tuesday there were approximately 1500 in attendance and they celebrated with a river baptism.
This coming Sunday, July 20, the SEND construction team from the US will arrive. We are excited to see what God will do through their hard work, prayers, and sacrificial giving of finances, time, and the comforts of home for the next two weeks. Please pray for their safety in travel and work. Also pray that the Russian church will be encouraged and strengthened by their brothers and sisters who come to work alongside of them to bring the Good News of the Gospel of Christ to this part of the world.
I may not be able to send update notifications in the next few weeks, but please be sure to check here for updates regularly. Today I will post photos including one of baby Vova…he is doing very well! His parents praise God and send thanks to those of you who have prayed for them and their child.
Our time here in Siberia is winding down. We (Bob and Robin Ivins) will be leaving with the SEND team on August 2. Please pray for much to be accomplished in the next 2 ½ weeks. The Lord said, “I will build my church…” so will trust Him with the outcome!
Tuesday, July 8, 2008
Baby Vova Came Home Yesterday!
Yesterday, Monday, July 7, baby Vova was brought for the first time to his parents home. Although we have not seen him, we hear that he is doing well. We are so grateful to have been able to share this prayer request with all of you and to know that many did pray. Thank you. Please continue to pray for this family. The father recently requested prayer for himself. He struggles with some issues and needs encouragement.
The work on the church is moving along. Since the brickwork was completed we have had fewer helpers, but we have an American work team coming on July 19th. Bob is keeping busy with the couple of men he has to work with.
The remainder of this entry is a copy of the letter I recently sent to everyone on our maillist. If we haven't heard from you in a while, we would love to. Thanks for your prayers. They are keeping us "afloat"!
“Because of Christ a sweet fragrance we are to God, in those being saved…” 2 Corinthians 2:15 (YLT)
The 4 days of tent meetings ended this past Sunday with morning worship. As we stood there worshipping, I noticed an incense burner had been lit to repel the insects. Making its way up and out of the opening at the top of the tent, the smoke’s pleasant fragrance permeated the air.
Standing there listening to the praise of the Russian believers all around me, I had the thought, that as our praise was rising it was a spiritual fragrance, a sweet smelling offering to our God.
I began thinking about what I know about the individuals who lead the praise and worship. For me, they are no longer just the three people who lead the singing. They each are trophies of God’s grace! I see the young man, who by the grace of God has escaped the grip of sin and drug addiction to attend a year of Bible college and now leads his church in praise. I see the married lady whose husband wants nothing to do with church or God, but allows her to come to participate because she loves to sing. And I see the young woman who struggles to pay her rent, because her husband has been in prison for 7 years leaving her to work and raise their son on her own. These three lead the Reconciliation Church in praise. And their praise smells pleasantly sweet to our God! He inhabits praise!
We all know that a church is not a building, it is the people. As Christians we are sinful people who have been reconciled to God by the sacrifice of His precious son Jesus’ death on the cross. Living in an acute awareness of their innate sinfulness and God’s great love, the people of Reconciliation Church are a thankful people. And they are people with a mission. This mission determines much of what they do.
A majority of the members, having been saved from drug abuse and alcoholism, desire to share the hope and love of Jesus with their community. The church has started and currently operates 2 rehabilitation centers. God has used the success of this ministry in their community to make this church “valid” in the eyes of officials, some from as far away as Moscow. The church is also sending out people to help start new rehabilitation centers in other parts of Russia.
They have started sister churches by sending “home missionaries” to at least three other cities. In recent opportunities to teach and preach, Bob has challenged individuals, and the church as a whole, to consider reaching out to the unreached peoples of Russia. Having taken the “Perspectives” course this past year, we have learned that there are 77 different ethnic groups within Russia who have never heard the gospel! Who could best reach them, but the Russian believers themselves?
If you were to visit a Reconciliation Church service (as Richard’s team will in another week!), you will find some similarities to your own church. The service will begin with singing, then prayer and preaching. There will be opportunity to give an offering. At the front is a box designated for tithes. There will be a time for greetings and announcements. The children will meet for Sunday school. Sometimes the believers will break up into small groups and pray together. Often there will be an invitation at the end. There will be lots of fellowshipping at the beginning and again at the end. Russians love visitors.
You will also find some differences. First of all, everyone will be speaking Russian!
Many of the women will greet each other with a kiss. Brothers will hug. Someone may give you a small sheet of paper with lines and Russian words on it. This is for your prayer requests. You may deposit them in another designated box which is also at the front. If it is summertime, the Sunday school is on vacation, so the children will wander in and out during the service to find mommy or daddy for something. All of the church equipment related to music, computer, projector, offering box, etc., will be brought and set up weekly because there is no safe place to store it.
Most of the songs will be very different from anything you are familiar with and the words are, of course, Russian! With every prayer and every song, you will be asked to stand. Often the greeting is a short sermon in itself. After more singing, special music and perhaps a testimony, someone will preach. This is not always Pastor Roma. Sometimes it is a visiting preacher or another local pastor. Next there will be a testimony, or a poem, a solo, and then more singing! After another prayer, the second preacher will come. This may be Pastor Roma. The announcements will come at the end. They will appear on the screen and will be read to you. Smaller groups of the believers will be getting together for something almost every night of the week.
Perhaps the biggest difference is that as a member of Reconciliation Church, you will go home from the meeting not knowing where or how your church will meet next week. After the renovation of the theater, will the officials grant permission for the church to rent the hall again? Will some part of the new building be finished before winter so that the church can meet there? You will trust that God will make a way.
“This is how we know what love is: Jesus Christ laid down His life for us. And we ought to lay down our lives for our brothers. If anyone has material possessions and sees his brother in need, but has no pity on him, how can the love of God be in him? Dear children, let us not love with words or tongue, but in actions and in truth.” I John 3:16-18
If you would like to join in showing God’s love to the people of Siberia, you may do so by contacting:
SEND International, PO Box 513, Farmington, MI 48332 /Phone: 248-477-4210 /www.send.org
The work on the church is moving along. Since the brickwork was completed we have had fewer helpers, but we have an American work team coming on July 19th. Bob is keeping busy with the couple of men he has to work with.
The remainder of this entry is a copy of the letter I recently sent to everyone on our maillist. If we haven't heard from you in a while, we would love to. Thanks for your prayers. They are keeping us "afloat"!
“Because of Christ a sweet fragrance we are to God, in those being saved…” 2 Corinthians 2:15 (YLT)
The 4 days of tent meetings ended this past Sunday with morning worship. As we stood there worshipping, I noticed an incense burner had been lit to repel the insects. Making its way up and out of the opening at the top of the tent, the smoke’s pleasant fragrance permeated the air.
Standing there listening to the praise of the Russian believers all around me, I had the thought, that as our praise was rising it was a spiritual fragrance, a sweet smelling offering to our God.
I began thinking about what I know about the individuals who lead the praise and worship. For me, they are no longer just the three people who lead the singing. They each are trophies of God’s grace! I see the young man, who by the grace of God has escaped the grip of sin and drug addiction to attend a year of Bible college and now leads his church in praise. I see the married lady whose husband wants nothing to do with church or God, but allows her to come to participate because she loves to sing. And I see the young woman who struggles to pay her rent, because her husband has been in prison for 7 years leaving her to work and raise their son on her own. These three lead the Reconciliation Church in praise. And their praise smells pleasantly sweet to our God! He inhabits praise!
We all know that a church is not a building, it is the people. As Christians we are sinful people who have been reconciled to God by the sacrifice of His precious son Jesus’ death on the cross. Living in an acute awareness of their innate sinfulness and God’s great love, the people of Reconciliation Church are a thankful people. And they are people with a mission. This mission determines much of what they do.
A majority of the members, having been saved from drug abuse and alcoholism, desire to share the hope and love of Jesus with their community. The church has started and currently operates 2 rehabilitation centers. God has used the success of this ministry in their community to make this church “valid” in the eyes of officials, some from as far away as Moscow. The church is also sending out people to help start new rehabilitation centers in other parts of Russia.
They have started sister churches by sending “home missionaries” to at least three other cities. In recent opportunities to teach and preach, Bob has challenged individuals, and the church as a whole, to consider reaching out to the unreached peoples of Russia. Having taken the “Perspectives” course this past year, we have learned that there are 77 different ethnic groups within Russia who have never heard the gospel! Who could best reach them, but the Russian believers themselves?
If you were to visit a Reconciliation Church service (as Richard’s team will in another week!), you will find some similarities to your own church. The service will begin with singing, then prayer and preaching. There will be opportunity to give an offering. At the front is a box designated for tithes. There will be a time for greetings and announcements. The children will meet for Sunday school. Sometimes the believers will break up into small groups and pray together. Often there will be an invitation at the end. There will be lots of fellowshipping at the beginning and again at the end. Russians love visitors.
You will also find some differences. First of all, everyone will be speaking Russian!
Many of the women will greet each other with a kiss. Brothers will hug. Someone may give you a small sheet of paper with lines and Russian words on it. This is for your prayer requests. You may deposit them in another designated box which is also at the front. If it is summertime, the Sunday school is on vacation, so the children will wander in and out during the service to find mommy or daddy for something. All of the church equipment related to music, computer, projector, offering box, etc., will be brought and set up weekly because there is no safe place to store it.
Most of the songs will be very different from anything you are familiar with and the words are, of course, Russian! With every prayer and every song, you will be asked to stand. Often the greeting is a short sermon in itself. After more singing, special music and perhaps a testimony, someone will preach. This is not always Pastor Roma. Sometimes it is a visiting preacher or another local pastor. Next there will be a testimony, or a poem, a solo, and then more singing! After another prayer, the second preacher will come. This may be Pastor Roma. The announcements will come at the end. They will appear on the screen and will be read to you. Smaller groups of the believers will be getting together for something almost every night of the week.
Perhaps the biggest difference is that as a member of Reconciliation Church, you will go home from the meeting not knowing where or how your church will meet next week. After the renovation of the theater, will the officials grant permission for the church to rent the hall again? Will some part of the new building be finished before winter so that the church can meet there? You will trust that God will make a way.
“This is how we know what love is: Jesus Christ laid down His life for us. And we ought to lay down our lives for our brothers. If anyone has material possessions and sees his brother in need, but has no pity on him, how can the love of God be in him? Dear children, let us not love with words or tongue, but in actions and in truth.” I John 3:16-18
If you would like to join in showing God’s love to the people of Siberia, you may do so by contacting:
SEND International, PO Box 513, Farmington, MI 48332 /Phone: 248-477-4210 /www.send.org
Thursday, July 3, 2008
"But Noah found grace in the eyes of the Lord." Genesis 6:10
As of June 30, the brickwork is complete! We have "found grace in the eyes of the Lord!"
With much excitement and relief we watched as the last few bricks were put into place on the backside of the church building. The brick masons and the helpers had worked together for 3+ weeks, even on Sundays, to get this job done and it is accomplished! We are happy to say that although the scaffolding had to be raised as much as three and ½ tiers high, the job is completed without any serious injury. Praise God! He blessed us with the skill to build the scaffolding, lay the bricks, and provided strength and endurance for each day’s work! At the request of the leadership, the entire crew took two days (Tuesday and Wednesday) to rest and refresh themselves before continuing the construction.
Inside the building, the stage area is being constructed along with partition walls forming “corridors” which lead to the two rear doors. Also, we are preparing the window openings for windows to be installed at some point in the future. In the next few days we will be working on lots of details to prepare the construction for the arrival of the SEND Team. They will arrive in Russia Saturday, July 19 and will begin work the following Monday. Please remember to pray for them as they travel. Also, please pray for safety and success in their work. We are excited to think of what may be accomplished as we have more laborers and finances to push forward toward completion of this building.
As of this date, the Reconciliation Church has no official place to gather. However, by God’s Grace and what some are calling a miracle, the church has been given permission to congregate for tent meetings by the Yenisei River for the next four nights. Posters and flyers have been distributed everywhere inviting everyone and anyone to come to these meetings. Please pray for the Gospel to go out in power and that the Holy Spirit will have His way in the hearts of all who gather.
On July 14-18, the churches of the Baptist Union will host their yearly Music Festival in the Krasnoyarsk area. These are evangelistic meetings with sweet times of fellowship for the believers and a half-day children’s camp for the kids! Many believers travel long distances to these meetings, some sleep in tents, some in their cars! This is a much anticipated time of refreshment, fellowship and outreach for the area churches. Please pray for these meetings as well.
For those of you who have prayed for baby Vova, here is an update: Vova is off the ventilator!!!!!!!! Doctors are considering letting him go home in a few days. They can’t explain why he is thriving…can you? Thank you for your prayers and notes of concern. Praise God with us for this answer to prayer.
With much excitement and relief we watched as the last few bricks were put into place on the backside of the church building. The brick masons and the helpers had worked together for 3+ weeks, even on Sundays, to get this job done and it is accomplished! We are happy to say that although the scaffolding had to be raised as much as three and ½ tiers high, the job is completed without any serious injury. Praise God! He blessed us with the skill to build the scaffolding, lay the bricks, and provided strength and endurance for each day’s work! At the request of the leadership, the entire crew took two days (Tuesday and Wednesday) to rest and refresh themselves before continuing the construction.
Inside the building, the stage area is being constructed along with partition walls forming “corridors” which lead to the two rear doors. Also, we are preparing the window openings for windows to be installed at some point in the future. In the next few days we will be working on lots of details to prepare the construction for the arrival of the SEND Team. They will arrive in Russia Saturday, July 19 and will begin work the following Monday. Please remember to pray for them as they travel. Also, please pray for safety and success in their work. We are excited to think of what may be accomplished as we have more laborers and finances to push forward toward completion of this building.
As of this date, the Reconciliation Church has no official place to gather. However, by God’s Grace and what some are calling a miracle, the church has been given permission to congregate for tent meetings by the Yenisei River for the next four nights. Posters and flyers have been distributed everywhere inviting everyone and anyone to come to these meetings. Please pray for the Gospel to go out in power and that the Holy Spirit will have His way in the hearts of all who gather.
On July 14-18, the churches of the Baptist Union will host their yearly Music Festival in the Krasnoyarsk area. These are evangelistic meetings with sweet times of fellowship for the believers and a half-day children’s camp for the kids! Many believers travel long distances to these meetings, some sleep in tents, some in their cars! This is a much anticipated time of refreshment, fellowship and outreach for the area churches. Please pray for these meetings as well.
For those of you who have prayed for baby Vova, here is an update: Vova is off the ventilator!!!!!!!! Doctors are considering letting him go home in a few days. They can’t explain why he is thriving…can you? Thank you for your prayers and notes of concern. Praise God with us for this answer to prayer.
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