September 2010 Update

You may have read about record breaking heat waves, forest fires and grain shortages in Russia. Though Ukraine is separate from Russia, the entire Black Sea region experienced these same weather patterns. For about two months, daytime high temperatures set new records. Without air conditioning many were unable to cope. Each day hundreds of elderly and poor died from complications related to the heat. Ukraine's traditional breadbasket grain crops withered and home gardens failed. So, this was a very hard summer for Ukraine. But, we thank God that the fall rains have returned and temperatures have finally returned to normal.

Despite inclement weather, summer ministries continued. This summer we have focused on helping the Bortnichi church grow. This summer the church held outdoor day camps under a tent. About 60 neighborhood children attended. Austin and Karyn became involved in playing games with the children. They even won a few awards. Kim assisted with the crafts sharing the love of Christ with the children. Despite the limited resources and harsh weather conditions, we can say that camp was a success. Several children accepted Christ. Relationships were strengthened. So, pray for God to continue to work int he lives of the children and their parents. Pray for the Lord to lead these families to the church!

In July, David was invited to Ukrainian wedding. We have known Kolya for about 6 months now. He is an orphaned young man that became a Christian through our teammates' ministry. Our teammates continued to support him with housing. Now, he lived in the garage apartment next to our house. He plans to complete university next year. So, we continue to encourage and support him in his walk with the Lord. We ask you to pray for him in his marriage and as he ministers to other orphans.

This summer we learned the government would no longer register our visas. We had to leave the country to apply for new visas. So, we traveled to the nearest location, Poland. While waiting for visas to be processed we visited some famous places in the old city of Krakow (Wawel Castle, Market Square, Saint Mary's Church, and the Hard Rock Cafe.) While there we also took educational excursions to Auschwitz and the underground salt mines. Visiting these places really made an impression and helped us to better understand history and culture of Eastern Europe. We are thankful that the visas were issued and that we had such an experience.

Over the summer God has given David various opportunities to preach the Word and serve in the church. David has started another English class through which he can meet new people, share the gospel and disciple believers. In addition, David is in the process of opening a project account at CrossWorld to help the Bortnichi church finish construction of the sanctuary. Currently they have to meet in the basement. Finishing the sanctuary will give them the space to expand their ministries to adults, youth and children. Please pray about helping with this project.

We want to thank you for the prayers and support that enable us to continue our ministry in Ukraine and Eastern Europe.