31 New Members joined “our” Church Of The Holy Trinity this past Sunday , November 14th . Praise God for each, and all our tears of joy! With two services full we are considering adding a third.
100 Text Books Donated to UFI C.O.A.H. (Come Over And Help) donated “The Almost Christian Discovered” by Matthew Mead. It will be one of the books used by our UFI students this January.
Application Packages continue to be requested and enrolments keep trickling in as word gets around of our actual presence in Kiev. We have 64 applicants accepted so far, the latest travelling from Russia, and expect a total of 70 pastors and leaders plus waiting list (With teacher-student interaction and Teaching Assistants being trained, larger classes tend to not work well)
Team Power. Writing and Translation Victory! Artyom & Leanna's long hours of meticulous translation of Ron's long hours of writing and compiling has resulted in work about which we are all very excited. The first UFI syllabus is done, with 3 more well into completion and a marriage course also coming together nicely. With questions and clarifications, graphics flying between discs and computers (even Linda's), formatting and reformatting refinements being done daily at the UFI office, Ron, Artyom, and Leanna have bonded as a comfortable effective team. Throwing strangers from different cultures together to work is not always so successful. Hard work by this brilliant duo, punctuated by stress relieving fits of laughter, and Ron's ever appreciated encouragement and attempts at humour, is a relief and joy. Praise God. (The translation is into Russian, not Ukrainian, as Russian is still readily accepted here and useful for reaching into surrounding countries in the months and years ahead.)
Marriage & Family Course Just confirmed: Ron will be teaching his/UFI's course to a Christian Education group of 35 leaders! All are involved in the educational ministry of their churches. This will again be at Kyiv Theological Seminary. Classes will be February 17th - 28th , 4 hours per day.
Intense Bible Studies. Both Adam and I have experienced wonderful intensity in our respective Bible studies. English and Russian teaching and translating flies both ways. It's fun. .Though I do not lead the one for ladies (17 -25 yrs. though no limits) the young energetic, very bright American leader seems to think I have an inexhaustible supply of wisdom so calls upon me weekly, inevitably with the most difficult issues. Aaaarg, but we make a good team. “Forgiveness” is our study topic. The girls are sharp, deep, poor, loving, well educated, often speak several different languages, and ask challenging questions. 10 minutes later they're lost in giggles at DVDs. Adam shares leadership for the youth and has gained lots of respect through his bright humour and strong quiet way
Spontaneous Helping (physical, cerebral, spiritual) can easily overflow our already full plates. Wisdom to live by example yet not losing sight of the specific goal of training leaders is a constant challenge. Adam particularly is having a tough time doing it ALL!!! Prayer is essential for power and peace.
Fundraising Please pray that we now implement the specific proven World Team plans made before we left Canada. Pray God enables helpers to share the news of this powerful ministry opportunity.
PVs for VIPs: (Personal Vignettes for Very Important Persons) Like me, Ron also had the urge to write lots when we arrived here. The urge is waning as we and you know more and the candle begins to burn already at both ends. Ron only just gave me his “Typical Day In Kyiv” and it is long of course. Everything was/is so new. We'll tuck it away for another mailing, but not without sharing this part at least. Ron writes: “I regularly thank God for the little things that show He cares, as well as the huge answers to many prayers to bring us here. Truly it is a privilege, and I never want to lose the sense of awe and gratitude for His calling and provision.”
Photo link follows this letter. Countless thanks to you, from all of us.
From Kyiv: Ron, Linda, Noel Adam
From Ottawa: Angela & Dawna, whom we JUST heard are both again full time employed! PTL!
Dr. Ron Harris: Founder of Wellspring of Life Biblical Counselling Service: wellspringoflife.com rharris@iGlide.net ~ Academic Dean Ukraine Family Institute:ufi_kiev@yahoo.com , rlharris@iptelecom.net.ua
World Team Canada : 2476 Argentia Rd., Suite 203, Mississauga, ON L5N 6M1,
(905) 821-6300; (800) 610-9788, www.world-team.org ~
International Faith Initiatives Inc. (USA) www.internationalfaith.org ~ Rev. Linville: mike@internationalfaith.org
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