Around Christmastime, Tonya felt compelled to go and visit an
elderly friend of hers (we call her Aunt Polya). When visiting,
Aunt Polya complained about poor health and asked us to bury her
if she died, since she didn't have any other relatives. Tonya
answered, "Don't talk about death yet, you haven't made peace
with the Lord yet." To Tonya's surprise, Aunt Polya, who never
wanted to listen about God before saying, "You know I don't
believe in that stuff," this time said, "I think I am ready now,
how do I make peace with God?" Angels in heaven rejoiced as
Aunt Polya prayed and repented of her sins, asking God for
salvation through Jesus Christ. In February, we were told by
her neighbor that she had just died. Later, standing by her
graveside after the funeral, we thought about how short our
lives on earth are, and thanked the Lord for guidance from the
Holy Spirit, God's salvation, and mercy.
Another loss we had in February was the loss of access to some
orphanages where we used to do ministry. We are not sure about
the details, but what we know is that the ministry of education
in Khabarovsk gathered all the orphanage directors and told them
that the children should have no contact with our ministry
organization. So one by one the orphanage directors contacted
us and apologized that they can't let us come any more. We were
not given a reason, so perhaps it is political. Many teachers
and children continue to text us, asking us to come sometime.
We also miss them.
This Sunday, our ministry team is getting together to seek the
Lord. We know that when he closes one door, there is another
one being opened. So our team of volunteers will be praying for
the Lord to show us His direction.
On a brighter note, the construction of the adaptation center
is going very well. You can see in the photo below Cecil and
some helpers working on the balcony.
Now, as the construction is nearly finished, we will try to
finish developing a ministry team and the adaptation program.
We request prayer for wisdom as this is a new step for our
ministry. We will be partnering with another Christian
organization who will likely lead much of the day-to-day
ministry there.
Russians color eggs on Easter. Below are some kids from church
with colored eggs and a special Russian Easter cake in the
center. Easter isn't always the same day in Russia as in the
West.
Thank you for your faithful prayers and support.
Blessings,
Cecil, Tonya, Vera & Diana
