The First of many to come

As the reality of being on the proverbial 'home stretch" of the building project sets in, the excitement is building among everyone. Each one who has sacrificed, though finances and prayer, has also had dreams and visions of what the future will hold. A very special "first" glimpse of some of the hopes, dreams, and visions came into our reality during Easter week. The pastors and leadership decided to hold a communion service on Maundy Thursday at the building site.



The day was overcast and chilly, transportation in the city was at a virtual stand-still due to a protest by the pensioners over transportation costs. The whole central district was cut off as the main trolley and tram routes were blocked by their protest. So, it was a challenge for many to get to the building that day, but in the end about 25 of us gathered.


The windows are in the sanctuary, which certainly made it not as cold inside as it was outside, especially as we were fully sheltered from the wind. However, it is still a construction zone, with various wood and brick debris scattered around and of course, lots of dust and dirt. Officially, we are not allowed to have any regular meetings there as the building is not inspected for use, nor is it ready to be, but a one-time gathering is not a problem.


A makeshift communion table was formed from gathering several cement blocks and laying a plank of wood over them. The cloth and elements were laid out on top and we all circled around. We all stood for the thoughts presented by Pastor Sokol, and we spent time in prayer before quietly sharing in communion together. After that solemn time, we took a moment to rejoice, saying "Praise God!" (слава богу!!), because we had just held the very first service in this building. Yes, it will be a church, but it will be so many other things as well. It will be a center for training leaders, for classes and conferences to develop pastors and layleaders, for clubs and "studios" which will bring the community into the facility and allow the real 'church', the people of God, to build relationships with the thousands who surround the building. It was a beautiful, thrilling moment to have this glimpse and in a way, a fitting inaugural gathering, communion which reminds us of the ultimate sacrifice and unending love. The legacy of our Savior which we who share in His communion are challenged to live out every day in our lives.


The other quiet significance of the gathering is that we all are planning to gather again next year at Easter, but this time not only with a few amidst the construction. Next Easter, April 19, 2009, we look forward to a dedication service, a gathering of many who have waited, longed for, and sacrificed for the day when this 'church' (the followers of Christ) would see the fulfillment of a promise and vision God gave them long ago; the completion of a ministry facility which will be used for the glory of God and the advance of His kingdom here on earth. This communion was a sweet foretaste of the amazing things to come as we watch during this year and beyond as God fulfills His promise and leads the believers into the continuing journey "unto the ends of the earth."