October 27, 2012
Church
“I have planted, Apollos watered; but God gave the increase.” 1 Corinthians 3:6 What a blessing it is to be able to be used of God! He definitely does not need us, but chooses to let us take part in His plan. Over the past few weeks, multiple people have come forward acknowledging their need of salvation. We are unsure how many have prayed, but among those were Valodia (the man we did Bible lessons with and who came faithfully for years), Ruselan (the man we did Bible lessons with in the prison) and Baba Maroosa! Slavic has grown abundantly over the past year and the others who came forward were a result of his witnessing. One lady in particular seemed to be greatly burdened over her need of salvation and Slavic himself had the opportunity to lead her to the Lord! Her name is Olya. Although we had met her and given her tracts a few times, she did not start coming to church until recently. She has been quite faithful during the time the Whites were there and appeared
greatly convicted after every sermon as Mike White clearly presented the Gospel each week. The others that came forward were Olya’s sister, Nastia and her daughter Naomi, Tonya, Olya’s friend, and Arteum and Sergay, friend’s of Slavic. We are excited to get back and talk with these people. Since the Whites were required to leave the country, the church is without a Pastor for two more weeks. We praise the Lord that He allowed Brother Mike to stay there two weeks longer than expected! Do remember to pray for our little church. Especially with so many newly saved, we know that Satan will try to hinder their growth. Even with no one there, the church is continuing to see around 20 people in attendance.
We also ask for you to pray for Slavic as Yuri has sent his nephew to persecute him, trying to get money from him, threatening to beat him and throw him in prison. Satan does not like Slavic’s witness and we are praying for God’s protection on him during this time. They will think that without a missionary there, Slavic will be more vulnerable, but God is still there!
Family
We have our passports, visas and plane tickets and are ready to be home. We fly out of Washington, D.C. November 8th at 5 pm! We have said goodbye to our family and friends, though Jessica’s parents may be making one last trip up to see the kids before we fly out. You all have been a blessing and encouragement to us. Some of you knew about Daniel’s ER visit due to 3 days of fevers around 105 and we greatly appreciate the gifts you sent in for that. We also appreciate the money sent in to replace our transmission. I don’t know if we could begin to express our gratitude for the blessings you all showered over us during our furlough. We came, intending to be a blessing to you and leave overwhelmed by your love. Thank you all for your prayers and support over the years!
“Finally, brethren, pray for us, that the word of the Lord may have free course, and be glorified, even as it is with you.” 2 Thessalonians 3:1
