Friday Report by Lloyd

This day has been just as rewarding as all the others.  Our team feels very blessed by having the privilege to work with these wonderful people.  These children, with their very large smiles, are some of the most beautiful children anywhere.

Small Group Sessions

The day began with House of the Gospel members teaching small group sessions of 10-12 boys and girls from John 14:6, "I am the way, the truth, and the life."  Wow!  What a powerful message.  Although in a different language, "I understood."

Original Ozero House Church

Craft time consisted of: 1) decorated picture frames with each child's picture; (2) necklace with each of the colored beads representing man's sin, Jesus' shed blood, cleansing of our sins; (3) plastic eggs with bands representing the salvation story; (4) and a frisbee for each child with John 3:16 in scribed in the center.

Later on in the afternoon, after multiple breaks, snacks, and recreation times, we reconvened in the tent and Brother Steve and Talia presented the story of the empty tomb, complete with felt board characters and scenery - another powerful message.

44 years and counting...

This afternoon also found Suzanne and Betty having a small group session in a private home with 10 non-believing women.  They gave an inspiring presentation on Psalm 23, "The Lord is my Shepherd", and He can be yours too!  At this time, Steve, Rusty and I accompanied Polina to the original "House Church" of Ozero.  The FBC folks have been such a great part of that church house - provided new paint, windows, doors, electricity, small wall furnaces, etc.  It isn't great, but it's functional, and it will accomodate about 20 people for worship,  Thanks to all who have given.

Polina had a surprise for Betty and me - a balloon bouquet of roses, celebrating our 44th wedding anniversary this very day.  What is the key to our long marriage?  God's grace and blessings.

Our day ended with another great dinner at Maria's, our home for the week.  After dinner we invited Maria and her family (Orthodox Church members) back into the small dining room for "conversation."  Maria, her husband, son, sister, niece, and other children were there.  Through two translators, Suzanne and others gave their testimony and witnessed Jesus Christ to our friends.   Slava Bogu (Praise the Lord)!  No conversions tonight, but the seed was planted.

Thank God the Father, for His goodness and mercy.
~Lloyd H.