The global economic downturn has greatly impacted the progress of the Russian Ministry Center Project, as the crisis has widened and lengthened. The Window Project brought great momentum and much construction was accomplished from 2008 until now with an amazing amount of $220,000 given since 2008. The Russian church, encouraged by the partnership and prayers and overwhelmed by the generosity of their brothers and sisters from around the world, continues to give towards this project through special offerings and regular monthly projects, in spite of their limited resources.

The funding still needed to complete this project remains well over $100,000. God has blessed the church and demonstrated His ability to accomplish the impossible during this time, as the fee for unfinished construction miraculously changed from doubling each year to a much lower set rate and a major issue concerning connecting to the city water was resolved.

The desire and need for completion is still great, but the reality of funding and the financial climate has compelled the development of a new plan of action to enable us to move toward that goal. With the preliminary work of electrical wiring, plumbing, and ventilation completed in the entire building, it is now feasible to break down the interior finishing work into smaller target areas. Although, this adds some complexity, extra paperwork, and fees, this process will allow areas of the building to be occupied before the entire facility is completed.

The priority is to complete an area that would provide the church space for ministries and outreach to begin. The first target area is the main floor entrance, meeting rooms and restrooms (Stage 1). Upon finishing Stage 1, inspection and approval could be given to occupy this area for usage. The estimate for completing Stage 1 is $35,000.

The next area of focus would be the Student Center/Café (Stage 2) located upstairs. The completion of the entrance area is necessary before moving into the Student Center/Café or the Main Auditorium (Stage 3). After each stage is completed, the inspection and approval can then be granted to use that area, even while the remaining areas are closed off and still under construction. The last area of focus would be the downstairs classrooms and offices (Stage 4).

We continue to plan and pray for the opportunity to celebrate a dedication in 2010. However, we also realize that this celebration may now look very different. Instead of planning one large dedication and celebration, consideration is being given to dedicate and celebrate the completion of each stage of the Chelyabinsk Ministry Center. A decision will be made by the end of 2009 regarding a tentatively planned event for April 2010.

As you continue to partner and pray with the Russian church through these challenges, please remember that we are hopeful and encouraged by the opportunity to trust in our God to help the Russian church finish what He began so many years ago through His faithful servants and their vision to reach out to the heart of Russia and this region.

Summer Celebrations

Pastor Andrei and Lena (Russian Women’s Leader) were able to visit a two congregations this summer. Before the NAC, Pastor Mark Nielson and the Monroe City Church of God welcomed the Russian guest to a special cookout celebration in Southern Indiana. Pastor Mark has visited Chelyabinsk and has stayed very connected and involved in the efforts to help the Russian church complete the Ministry Center. After the convention, Pastor Andrei and Lena then visited Kentucky. During this weekend they were treated to a special 4th of July celebration that's best experienced in the community and atmosphere of a small town. The hosts for this special visit to Kentucky have also invested heavily into the lives of the church in Chelyabinsk. The worship pastor of First Church of God (Lexington, KY), Pat Davis visited Chelyabinsk and helped introduce the "Bell Ministry" through a visit in 2001 with the Kentucky Bell Choir. Also involved in hosting this visit was Tom & Jan Cockerham were part of the CoMission Teams to Russia in 1994-‘95 and again in 1996. These individuals have also stayed very connected to the Russian church since their first involvement. It was a special joy and honor for the Russian leaders to have this opportunity to share updates in the construction of the Ministry Center firsthand and experience the hospitality of the "Hoosier" and "Bluegrass" states.

A Cup of Coffee Goes a Long Way...

During NAC, the venue for the Evening Services was at Madison Park Church. One of the “perks” of gathering at MP is the Holy Grounds Cafe, their in-house coffee shop that gives 100% of their proceeds to mission projects the church supports. The month of June was designated for the Chelyabinsk Ministry Center and thanks to very thirsty attendees of NAC, almost $6,000 was donated to the project. We were honored to volunteer to help serve at the Cafe, along with their wonderful volunteer staff who tirelessly brewed and frothed coffee delights and whipped up countless smoothies. Thank you to all who contributed by enjoying some beverages during NAC- these funds were a tremendous encouragement because the current economic crisis has impacted the process of completing the construction. We, along with the church in Russia, continue to thank God for His ongoing provision and wait on His timing for bringing this strategic center to completion.

Construction Update- Summer 2009

Construction at the Ministry Center has slowed down considerably as the world economic situation has become a global issue. Over the summer, work slowed to minor steps of completing some of the wiring and ventilation. Since January, the amount of work projects has had to adjust to the amount of funds as they became available. The project has accomplished about two-thirds of the goal since 2008. Now the remaining work must wait until the needed funds accrue so that the workers, materials, and supplies can be secured without causing risk of over-extending our budget. Please join us in prayer for wisdom and direction concerning the Ministry Training Center and continue to pray for God to reveal Himself during these economic set-backs.

Summer Visits to Northwest US

This summer, Pastor Andrei Kolegov visited the Northwest United States. During the visit he was able to connect with many friends of the Russian church. Former CoMissioner's, Orlo & Carol Kretlow, (who served from 1995-96) and Dennis & Georgia Miller (International Christian Ministries, scheduled to visit Chelyabinsk in October 2009)hosted him. Pastor Andrei first visited Mt. Scott Church of God in Portland, Oregon, one of the churches who helped get the Window Project going the summer of 2008. He also met with the mission team of Lynchwood Church of God, also in Portland and met many who have supported the Russian church in prayer and ongoing partnership. His journey concluded with a time of sharing at the First Church of God in Vancouver, Washington. The Vancouver church helped the Chelyabinsk church years ago to help make the initial purchase of property for the building project. Pastor Andrei's time in the Northwest was full of opportunities to share the gratitude and appreciation of the Russian believers for the support and prayers to those that have partnered with the Window Project, in the past, present, and future.

Pastor Andrei to Visit the Northwest and North American Convention

Pastor Andrei Kolegov will be in the Vancouver, Washington and Portland, Oregon areas from Sunday, June 14 to Sunday, June 21. We are so excited to have this opportunity for Pastor Andrei to share in person a word of thanks to so many that have helped the Chelyabinsk Church over the years. During that week Pastor Andrei will be visiting churches, missions teams, and some of our partners in ministry.

After the visit to the Northwest, Pastor Andrei will be in Indiana for the North American Convention of the Church of God. On Wednesday, June 24th, he will be joined by Lena Barannikova and will visiting Monroe City Church of God. During the NAC there will be many opportunities to connect with him as well as Dwayne and Kara Goldman. We will post a NAC schedule soon. Following the convention Pastor Andrei and Lena will visit Lexington, Kentucky on Sunday, July 5th, before returning to Russia. Until then please pray for Pastor Andrei as he travels and shares the wonderful stories of God's mercy and provisions in the Russian church.

Ministry Center (May Update)

It's finally Spring in the Urals and Pastor Andrei shares the latest news surrounding the Window Project and construction of the Chelyabinsk Ministry Center in Russia.

Construction Update

Phases Completed - The ventilation, plumbing and electrical wiring for the interior are completed. A few remaining areas will need to be addressed in the future, but the majority of the hardware, pipes and ducts are laid. In addition to these interior areas, within the past year the empty shell of a building has had the windows and doors installed and nearly all the exterior facade and painting completed. What a difference one year can make!

Next Phases - The connection to heat and the wiring for the ventilation system as well as the purchase and installation of the air handler are the next steps. Beyond that, preparations are being made for putting in walls and flooring and interior painting. Currently, the work proceeds only as the funds are in hand for each step. Each time a step is completed, there has always been enough for moving forward. As the final steps are approaching, we continue to trust that every need will be provided at the right time.

The Drywall Project - The people of the Chelyabinsk Church are currently raising money for one of the next steps in the construction. To finish the interior walls, it is estimated that 300 drywall boards will be needed. Each drywall board costs approximately 300 Rubles. (about $9 US) In two weeks the church has collected for 43 boards already. Although the dollar is stronger now than it has been in over 10 years, the economic crisis throughout the world has hit Russia hard. Those who still have their jobs make significantly less than even a year ago while expenses and prices have still increased. The believers are generous and cheerful givers and God is blessing the church for being sacrificial in their giving and trusting in their hearts. May God bless all who go above and beyond during these difficult times.

Passing the Torch

Leaders that truly make a difference invest in others and find ways to empower others to do even greater things. One such leader recently passed away, Dr. Don Pickett. He opened the door to Russia by empowering a small group of youth and a young youth leader from Florida in the 1990’s that established a connection with Chelyabinsk, which eventually led to the planting of a church. Those that knew him are well aware of his love for young people and his passion and heart for the Russian people. We know he hoped to return once more to Chelyabinsk to be part of the dedication service. Instead, he is rejoicing now in heaven. We are saddened by the loss and had to say a temporary “goodbye” to a dear saint and champion of young leaders, however we also must remember the importance of continuing his legacy. It is our hope and prayer that the leadership development taking place in Russia today will accept the baton passed by Dr. Pickett and continue to encourage, train, and challenge young people to be all that God has gifted and created them to be, wherever that may take them.

Easter Celebration 2009

Orthodox Easter on April 19 was the date we hoped to dedicate the Chelyabinsk Ministry Center. We had visions of many of you standing together with the Russian church in thanksgiving and praise as this dream would finally become realized. Although the completion and dedication did not happen, our Easter was still filled with thanksgiving and praise as we celebrated the risen Savior. A year ago, we first shared the need facing the Russian church and the window of opportunity to see this building project completed. During this time we have seen God continue to pour out His blessings, even in the midst of difficult economic times. The original estimated goal was $350,000 to complete the exterior work and inspections so that the building can be occupied and used. To date $220,000 or over 60% has already been received. The economic fluctuations have so far benefited the project in that the dollar gained 30% more value in exchange rates and materials have either held steady in cost or decreased. The remaining $100,000 is needed as quickly as possible before circumstances and situations change again.

When the Window Project began last year, a compelling reason was the high fees and construction penalties that doubled each year. We are so thankful that the laws changed in November so the fee is decreasing to a set amount instead of continuing to double each year. However, penalties are not the only reason for urgency. Just two days before Easter, the pastors were told that the rented auditorium used for services is unavailable for the following week. Fortunately, this is only for one week and with enough notice to make the announcement to the congregation. It certainly highlights the desperate need for a facility that will always be available for services and ongoing ministry.

Providing finances and inspections, we hope to be in the Ministry Center within the year. The church leadership is making plans for a community ministry launch by the end of summer. That which God has begun, He will see through. Please share this update and need with others and continue to pray with us during these times. It is only through the partnership of all of us together that the Russian church can realize this dream. We are so thankful for the faithfulness of God and the generosity and encouragement of His people.

Deadlines vs. Faith

Deadlines do matter in life to complete tasks and projects, but I was recently reminded that the achievement of our hopes and dreams matter more. A few months ago, the realization that the dedication the Ministry Center had to be postponed was discouraging. At that time, Pastor Sergei withdrew for a moment and returned with a Russian church bulletin from 2002. In it was an announcement for a youth conference to be held at the Chelyabinsk Ministry Center in August 2003. That conference never happened and during that year, the Russian church and the Ministry Center faced the beginning of many setbacks and economic hardships. Pastor Sergei reminded us that our faith should not be shaken by missing a “printed” date but rather be challenged to a deeper level of trust. The Russian church understands and knows what it is like to face difficult times. This project has taken longer to complete than ever imagined and even as it still seems to be an endless task, with God nothing is impossible. Dates are set as goals for us to reach but it is ultimately God’s schedule that is followed. We do believe that the opportunity to complete this project is at hand. Although the window of opportunity may be narrowing, God has given us all the grace, strength and faith to see it through. We continue to plan, prepare, and set dates, but at the same time keep our faith that tomorrow is in God’s mighty hands.

Adopting a Vision for Chelyabinsk

Soon after the Goldman family arrived in Chelyabinsk in the fall of 2007, they were contacted by several American couples who were stuck in lengthy delays in adoption processes. Some spent over two months waiting in Chelyabinsk and were determined not to leave this time without their children. During this time, they came to church and met the people and pastors. These families were quickly “adopted” and found the support and encouragement they needed from an unexpected source, a Russian church. As their prayers were answered and they left Chelyabinsk with their children, Pastor Andrei had the honor to pray a dedication over them as newly formed families.

This was a ministry we never envisioned but one that God brought about and it was our privilege as the church (in Russia) to serve these families. The relationships and connection did not end when those families departed Chelyabinsk. They still are part of our extended family of believers and have also become partners in the Window Project.

One couple is from Colombia, Missouri and attends a small country church. Dwayne recently visited this family and the church in February while renewing visas. In an adoption, there is a tremendous need of support from friends and family; it is the time when others come alongside and lift you up in prayer and support. In a similar way, Midway Heights Baptist Church has “adopted” the Chelyabinsk Ministry Center and the Russian church through their love and support. How amazing to see how God brings His people together in ways that are beyond our imagination or expectations.

Spring Has Sprung (Kindof)

The first of March signifies the "official" beginning of spring in Russia. Even though it is snowing as I write, the hardest part of winter is over. While renewing visas in the US in February, Dwayne met with Keith Stork who plans to bring a team from the US to the building dedication and celebration service. The trip is being coordinated with Eye on the World. After reviewing current progress and funds yet needed for the completion of the Ministry Center, the decision has been made to postpone the Celebration from the target date of April 19, 2009 (Orthodox Easter)to a later date.

Work continues inside the Ministry Center and we hope to soon have the funds to begin drywalling. We are so grateful and thankful for the outpouring of support and prayer during the 10 months since the Window Project began. Already over $220,000 has been raised in this short time. Although economic hardships impact the entire globe, the dollar is stronger today in Russia than it has been in over 10 years. Each dollar now goes much farther- it is a great investment that each dollar given actually INCREASES in value almost 40%! The remaining $130,000 will complete the building phase (drywall, ceiling, floors and fixtures) and cover final inspections.

Each step of the way the Lord has provided exactly what was needed in order to continue the work. We trust Him to continue and believe that it is possible to begin ministry in the completed Center by the end of summer. We know that ultimately the timeline is in God's hands and although we plan and target dates, He knows when it is the right time. It is a wonderful gift to trust in His timing and also see that the fulfillment of this dream and promise is coming soon!

Please join us and continue to pray for God's provision and His protection during these next few months as we partner to "Seize the Moment, and Share the Dream".

See What the Lord has Done!

As we stand at the beginning of a new year, we took the moment to reflect over the past year. And we are amazed! A year ago, we became aware of the critical need to move the Ministry Training Center to completion. Many joined with us in prayer and partnership as we saw the Window of Opportunity to Seize the Moment. The building looks very different now than it did 12 months ago and although it looks almost finished on the outside- the work is just beginning on the inside.

While we had hoped to be further along with the interior, as we look back, we can only stand amazed at the amount that was completed with your prayers and support. Below is a slideshow to show what has been accomplished.



In the next months, the work is continuing on the interior. Workers are in the process of installing the plumbing and fixtures, the wiring, and ventilation system. Then as funds continue to be available, the dry wall and plastering and other finishing work will begin. A tentative dedication was scheduled for April, the date has now been moved to Fall 2009. Even now, it is still a process of faith for the church to continue, but as demonstrated to us in the past- God is faithful and He will be with us every step of the way.