Monday, October 15, 2012

ENERGIZED FOR GOOD

Much of our work is prompted by and interpreted through our faith and historical background.  A few days ago the German class from the Russian school came to the Centre for a Mennonite history lesson.  Dema had prepared a powerpoint presentation going back to Menno Simons.  There was great interest and many questions. Furthermore, because these children are studying German, communication was possible for us.
Marina Romanova, director of the Russian school, teaches this elective course and has invited us to visit the class. When students come to the Centre there is always an expectation that they will have tea with us. These students were hardly out the door when a small bus turned into the driveway and a group of people from the Melitopol History Club of the Pedagogical University stepped out.  This visit came entirely unannounced.

Dema immediately invited them in and repeated his half hour presentation.  The upshot of this occasion has turned out to be far-reaching.  Dema has been invited to be a presenter at an international conference in Kiev at the end of November. This event is sponsored by the Ministry of Culture and will be focusing on minorities of Ukraine.

The last days of summer – days are warm again but temperatures have dropped to minus five at night.  Yesterday we were invited to partake in another Thanksgiving service.  It required an excursion through the countryside to Bolkovoya, a village located close to the centre of what was once the Molotschna colony, not far from the first-ever MB church building.


We were welcomed by a small, but vibrant, Mennonite congregation.  This is an annual exchange and they hosted us royally. We sat through five sermons; four speakers were appointed on the spot when they arrived at church, Dema being one of these. Those who are energized by surprises do very well here.  In many ways we also find it best to be prepared for the unexpected and to be very flexible.

Thinking back to the week that was – what has brought us joy and inspired gratitude?
  • Opening the tap and seeing water coming out!!  Not to be taken for granted. Last week there was one day only without this problem.
  • Unexpectedly finding a twist-tie (treasured item in our kitchen).  Of course clothes pins make an acceptable substitute.
  • The last rose of summer blooming at the Centre.

  • Walnuts. As we’ve walked the streets of Molochansk during the past few weeks we have gleaned a large quantity of walnuts that would otherwise have become road-kill.  A great addition to our daily bowl of oatmeal.  Sadly this pleasure has come to an end.

Walking to the Centre - walnut trees on distant right
  • Italian parsley and dill.  Huge bunches found at the market for only 30 cents.
  • Most importantly, expressions of relief on faces of those we are able to help, particularly those facing serious health issues. So heartwarming when people come back relaying their gratitude because their lives have been changed for the better - enabled by your support, your gifts and your prayers.  Thank you!   

      
Photos can be enlarged by clicking on them.

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