Looking back to the last few days in Siberia

Each day started with devotions by a team member and singing. We learned a song based on Micah 6:8 from Bob and Robin. It was a two part song with the men starting and the women echoing. This was a great way to begin every morning. Rob's devotion on Tuesday was regarding service and in this case, service to God. Marjorie focused on anger and forgiveness on Wednesday. Ryan (Herms) talked about joy in the Lord. As Christians we need to show that we are happy and share this with others.



We had several Russian women come to help sand and paint the benches on the last few days. Some of the Russian men worked on digging the foundation for the steps as well as on inside projects. Even though we couldn't speak each other's language, we managed to communicate what needed to be done and showed our appreciation of each other.



Marjorie, our oldest team member, was in charge of temporary windows. She designed a plastic covered frame that could easily be removed for ventilation, while keeping the rain and wind out when that was needed. She had favorite tools that worked for her and we had many laughs over her protectiveness. Just ask anyone on the team who might have borrowed them without telling her! Her work will be much appreciated by the church goers as the weather cools until the real windows can be installed.



On Thursday Jared and Rob secured the steeple area from leaks. Just getting up to the steeple was a challenge. Check out the pictures later for their precarious climb. The ceiling insulation was finished and the dry wall in the sanctuary is done. A woman from the church will be doing the finish work on it. Bob's last big item was getting the framing done for the first step into the church. These aren't just a small set of steps, they reach across the entire end of the church in a semi-circle. The Russian men will complete the steps and send a picture later.



On Thursday evening we had a time of fellowship with the Russian believers. The shashlik (shish kebab) took a few hours to make enough for everyone. They were cooked on a wood fired grill. We were given gifts made of birch bark from the church. The ladies received a beautifully shaped flower and then men received either a wallet or decorative box also made of birch bark.



Dan, our youngest team member, brought a few games to share with everyone. A favorite was a game that gave a light shock to the loser....and people kept playing and laughing over the fun. He also brought a football and frisbee. The Russian men enjoyed learning some techniques for throwing a good pass.



On Friday we met at the church at 8:30 a.m. This was a time to say our final good-bye to our Russian sisters and brothers (some quite emotional), take team pictures, and for Bob to give final instructions to the Russian men who will continue the work. It is amazing how close relationships can form in just two weeks and it was hard to see the tears in the eyes of some of the church leaders. The believers of the Reconciliation church are hard-working, faithful people. They have a new building now and we have a better understanding of Russian culture and their strong faith. We are humbled by these men and women who are connected to us through faith in God.



After our good-byes we headed to Krasnoyarsk with some of the Russian brothers. It is always exciting to ride with these men who might be well-suited for Indy racing! Riding with them can be a test of faith. They believe in fast driving and quick stops, too. It seems to be the Russian way.



We arrived in the city of Krasnoyarsk for some sightseeing and souvenir shopping. We were in a perfect place to see the solar eclipse on Friday evening. Several of us had a chance to view it through some special lenses provided by a television crew....which led to some filming of the Americans watching the eclipse. The evening ended with a debriefing with the SEND missionaries, James and Paul. They were invaluable in all aspects of our time in Siberia. They suggested that we prepare 30 second, 1 minute, and 5 minute responses for people who ask about our trip. You may want to suggest which version you'd like or you may hear more than you have time for.

Watch for another posting soon about the last leg of the trip. We enjoyed safety and companionship throughout the trip.