God had given us a great desire to visit small churches and groups of believers along the way between these two major Russian cities. God truly blessed us, and in four weeks we were able to hold 16 worship services. The meetings we had with believers in the small towns and villages took place in informal settings. In many places, they had invited unbelievers to be a part of the meetings. There were questions, conversations, testimonies of God’s love for all people, singing songs, refreshments, and of course, wonderful times of fellowship. This was a great encouragement to the local believers, but even more so for us. We saw a great desire in people for fellowship as well as hunger for God’s Word. We greatly admired the commitment of our missionaries in these places to God and His work.

Especially memorable was a meeting with the missionary family of Vyacheslav Onokhov in Magoicha, a town in the oblast (state) of Chita. They used to rent an apartment in Magoicha, but financial difficulties caused them to pray and seek another place to stay and minister. And they found one by God’s grace!

It turned out that a local military facility had closed, and Vyacheslav — with the help of his family — was able to remodel a portion of an old soldiers’ barracks that was one big room. They separated a part of it, built a heating system and all the necessary adjustments. Later other families followed their example. Right beside them in the yard are torn-down barracks and storage buildings for military vehicles. As you look around it seems like it is so depressing, but Vyacheslav’s family lives there, working for the Lord witnessing to people about His love! My wife Vera was amazed at their commitment to the Lord. Vyacheslav works as a welder. Please pray for their ministry. They have no organized church thus far in Magoicha, but they continue to labor with hope that there will be a church there someday, in keeping with the example of the Apostle Paul, who said … I planted … but God was causing the growth (1 Corinthians 3:6).

Along the way, we had wonderful meetings in children’s camps being held by the missionaries and churches in various locations. It was unforgettable, and beyond our ability to describe it all in limited space.

I want to thank the Lord — and you — for the material help which you have been providing to us who are serving as regional vice presidents for the UECB. Your assistance helps us to be able to visit churches and encourage the hearts of the believers. Blessings to the faithful workers at SGA, and your ministry partners!