Russia: Day 5

Sunday was probably one of the most anticipated days of the trip, worship with other believers in Russia! Service started at noon (best idea ever!), so although we had to be at church early, we still got to sleep in a bit. Feeling well rested, and of course well fed by Sasha (he made fried eggs again), we headed to the church. With the worship center undergoing repairs, we had some logistics to figure out. Service was held in the school gym next door, but the school was also receiving annual summer maintenance. We did some sweeping and cleaning up, as well as hauling benches and other necessary items over for the service. I enjoyed seeing how everyone came together to serve and prepare even with all the changes. Once everything was in place, there was quite a bit of fellowshipping before the service.

The service was not all that different in format from our American services. We listened as they sang several songs in Russian, we chimed in with our English on the few melodies we recognized. Then Eddy had the opportunity to preach while Helen (teacher and translator) translated. It was ceratinly a neat experience to hear the message in English and Russian. 

After the service, we had the special opportunity to meet the child we sponsor, Nadya, and her family! When Eddy first expressed interest in Mission To Russia, our initial step for further involvement was choosing a child to sponsor. We were both excited and chose a girl close in age to Janna. We thought the girls could communicate with one another by letter, and of course establish a relationship that would be more meaningful over the years. 

Eddy and I were extremely grateful to have Helen and Sasha translate for us so that we could communicate with Nadya and her family. We exchanged some gifts, shared pictures of our families, and learned quite a bit more about Nadya. We also ended up having lunch (or our late afternoon meal) at the same café and Nadya entertained us with some of her dancing skills. Seeing Nadya was a special experience and an exciting reminder of why we chose to sponsor…to help another family and hopefully show the love of Christ.

Nadya's family wanted us to come to their home and spend some more time with them. Unfortunately, as soon as we finished our meal, we had to get on the road back to Moscow. So, we said goodbye to Nadya and her family, as well as the many other friends we had met from the church. The time in Kostroma was special and it went by so quickly. We certainly, and hopefully, look forward to returning in the next few years.

Eddy preaching and Helen waiting to translate.

Us with Nadya and her family.