Wednesday, March 5, 2008

It starts with ONE!


I know the photo in the header shows some of the new windows, but I wanted to post a few close up photos. There is still a long way to go, but there is something about seeing windows in those big empty holes that makes it feel like the completion is alot closer. We took photos of the progress, even though only some of the windows are in, and showed a slideshow at church. A spontaneous and collective SHOUT of "PRAISE GOD!!" or "Слава Богу!" rang out, along with applause.

The believers here have been collecting towards the window installation since November 2007. They made pledges and have already given more than double what was pledged and they also collect a "penny-a-day" on the last Sunday of each month. Of course, it is more like "Kopecks-a-day", but to date they have brought in close to 20% of the total cost of the windows. Kopecks are smaller than roubles- like our pennies it takes 100 kopecks to make 1 rouble. Currently, it is 24 roubles to $1 US. Believe me, it is ALOT of kopecks, but oh, how the little "widow's mite" adds up in God's economy!

So, rejoice with us! It is okay to jump up and down, shout praise to God, and give Him glory to see this happen. Many, many people have been part of the project and this is a moment we wanted to share with the world!