Russia in Spring!

I just returned from a 2 week trip to Chelyabinsk, Russia. I am on the board of trustees for a group of churches, so we just concluded our board and advisory meetings. The trip itself was great for several reasons:

• I got to see many friends.
• The board consists of 5 Christians who each have over 20 years of Missions and Church ministry experience. We were able to provide advice, ideas, accountability, care and guidance to the church pastors and leaders.
• Everywhere I went, people went out of their way to encourage and comfort me as I struggle with my own ministry changes and life difficulties. I was ministered to more than I ministered while I was there.
• I got to worship in Russian!!!
• I preached and led a seminar in Russian. (God's miracles never stop amazing me.)
• Great conversations. One of the biggest traditions in Russia is sitting in someones kitchen, drinking tea and talking about life. I averaged about 5-6 cups of tea a day as I listened and shard about God's faithfulness in our life journeys.

Please pray for:

1. The Chelyabinsk Church of God who hope to open their new building this fall and begin a new church worship location. Pray that God will gather the resources (both monetary and people) in order to accomplish this.
2. The Living Word Church in Yekaterinburg, that they might hold steadfast to their mission as they encounter troubles and difficulties from people outside of the church.
3. For Lucy and I as we seek guidance from God. We are looking for jobs, new ministry, and a church to worship and serve in.
4. Our next planned trip to Russia in July of 2011. Pray that God will make this happen.

Thanks again for all your prayers and support.

Dan