It is all done but the departing! We have completed our assignment for this visit to a land and people we have come to love.
Today we had our final pastoral visit, really it was a “lady visit” as Marilyn and Ira Ivanov and baby Katrina were the focus of this visit. But it was also a “pastoral ministry time for the lady’s. It is always good for pastor’s wives to have someone they can unload their burdens with and know “all is well” - nothing with be misused. This is particularly true when it has been hard to develop close relationships with other pastors and wives.
“Relationships” – I guess that has been the theme of this visit. The time the pastors had just to focus on theological issues and discuss them at the retreat and the relationships that developed from those free-time discussions is invaluable.
You must understand the background and the cultural upheavals which have plagued Ukraine. These pastors were children when their country was under the control of the communists. No one trusted anyone. You were not supposed to. You were schooled on “reporting others” for any misuse, conduct or communications. And so their households were permeated with this spirit of distrust and “isolationism.”
The single most repeated comment from pastors who attended the Idea Exchange in Crimea was focused on the fellowship and the potential of the development of new relationships.
Even now, though the power of communism is no longer visible, the new government has invoked new “rules” which are impacting the Churches. The first visible sign was the huge increase in the rent for any facilities used by Churches – 3 ½ times the previous. In addition, Churches are no longer able to use the facilities of government run schools (Church and State Separation - sound familiar?)
We have spent the last two days with Vadim Uruymagov and his sons, Peter and Mark. Much of our discussion with them has been about their progress since death of Inna, the wife and mother. I am happy to report all are doing well. They are moving on, looking to the future – to discover where God is leading them as a family and for Vadim’s ministry. I will sum this up by saying, “Praise God! They recognize they have future and a hope and are looking forward to it.
So now we look to the future. The owners of the resort, The Equator, have given a verbal invitation to return next year. Several pastors have expressed a desire for a meeting next year. We, Marilyn and I have each shared some thoughts about next year, now we must hear from God. So pray with us.
Until we see you in Ft. Myers,
God bless and thanks for your prayers.
Dr D & Marilyn
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