Feel the field: Challenges
We’ve seen an influx in persecutions in Russia lately. Every month we hear about raids into churches by masked SWAT-type teams. They search for ‘’illegal spiritual activities’’ and terrorism chargers. Both are closely tied. Pastors and leaders are fined for “not properly marked Bibles” and “unproper proselytism”. There are several churches whose buildings are being demolished and congregations don’t know if they will be allowed to gather as churches. So, our first prayer in this letter will be about Christians in Russia. As probably in any of such circumstances, there becomes “less foam in a glass”. That is an old Russian saying, meaning in the days of revival we have churches full. But when hard times come, we see who truly follows Jesus. That’s what we’re seeing here and it’s probably true in your area too. Pray that first our believers stand strong and grow spiritually and also those who live elsewhere in Russia. Secondly, pray for disciple making process to gain momentum in those circumstances and the Church would expand greatly instead of staying in defense mode.
Family
Nevertheless, life is moving forward in Ufa. Our son Tim has officially graduated from the third grade. We didn’t want to omit Christina so had them both received presents.
Camp 2019–Special Need
The time for this year’s Summer Camp is coming fast. This year it will be held in a little bit harsher environment. We didn’t publish booklets for this camp due to stricter rules on printed materials for religious communities. But the attendance for the camp is looking good. People from Bashkortostan as well as from Moscow, Kirov and Kazan plan to come. We will have a special fellowship and teaching times. We still need a raft and a new tent to accommodate everyone in the camp, totalling $350 for both. One raft and a tent will not make it this year because they are worn out. By the grace of God, we pray for new ones. Thank you for standing with us!
You can make tax deductible contribution to Ufa Bible Ministries which is recognized by the IRS as a 501c3 non-profit entity.
Make checks payable to:
Ufa Bible Ministries
PO BOX 1761, Columbia, SC 29202
Interesting facts about Ufa and Bashkortostan:
Bashkir school of dance is well respected. Many students received international awards at competitions in Russia and other countries. World-renowned ballet dancer Rudolf Nuriev as a child danced in Bashkir folk performances.
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