We mailed out our latest (snail-mail) newsletters in mid-August. They should be arriving in U.S. mailboxes about now. If you aren't on our mailing list you can still check it out on our web site at http://hqmail.agmd.org/~tonya.eshelman/NL2006Aug/NL2006Aug.html
One person highlighted in our newsletter is Sergei and the center for homeless he helped open this summer. He regularly worked for us as a driver, but he recently gave us notice and now is busy at the new center. This is a big step of faith since they do not have funds to pay him a salary. The homeless have been staying in tents, but have now begun construction on a building. Please pray that they would get enough built for the women to move inside before the end of October (when the Russian winter arrives). Also, please pray for Sergei and his family as they step out in faith.
At the end of August we took a family trip to the Sea of Japan. Russia is broken up into territories, much like the States is broken into states. This was our first time to Primorski territory (near Vladivostok), which is south of Khabarovsk.
We stayed in tents and discovered the pristine nature along the Russian coast. It was a very refreshing time for the family.
Vera found a sea star ( and put it back )
Tim enjoyed rock climbing (he just loves to climb).
We traveled with a group, most of whom are not believers yet. We've invited them to our place for a get-together on Saturday and hope to continue planting seeds.
We expected to get back just in time for school to start, but that has been delayed in Khabarovsk due to an outbreak of meningitis. Apparently things have improved because school will start on Monday. Timothy will advance to 2nd grade, and Vera will start 1st. Wow, the kids are growing up.
We thank you for your prayers for us to make contacts with the right people. One by one connections are being made and plans are becoming clearer for our work among the orphans here. We praise God that he continues to give us favor.
We are preparing to host a pastor's conference October 11-14. There are many organizational details, and organization in Russia has some special challenges. Please pray for us to have wisdom and for all the lose ends to come together.
We so much appreciate the prayers of you all. We know that without them we could do little of value here.
Because of Him,
Cecil, Tonya, Timothy & Vera
