The Lowdown on Russia: HELP!

We have 24 hours!

Hopefully most of you know about the missions trip to Russia that I am supposed to be going on tomorrow. The Lord has blessed us so far. But at the last minute (less than 48 hours before we are supposed to go) Johnson & Wales University pulled their financial support from underneath us (about $4,500.) The main reason is that it seems because there has been some things happening in Russia in the past and recently, and since the school has paid for our plane tickets they don’t want to be liable if anything happens to us. (Though there is no government issued travel warning at this time) We had already raised the remaining amount, and were ready to go. At first the  shock hit. Then we prayed, asked God for guidance, and weighed all of the options according to scripture. After talking to missionaries "on the ground," and realizing that the name of Christ was at stake, there was a clear directive. We must go. 

Our plans were with schools, English clubs, teachers<-most who are unsaved, a church, and missionaries. The team is prepared to build relationships and to speak to students about the gospel. Breaking the trust that the ONLY gospel preaching church has with the people in the city of Zavolzhye (50,000 people- one known church.. WHAT!)... we just cant do that. 

$4,500 is the total to cover the difference of what the school was going to cover. There are six of us that are going (Kevin, Jake, Niki, Kim, Jasmine, and me). This money will help go to the cost of the plane tickets and cost of visas. In the past 12 hours and since we first got the news, we have raised almost $2,600, but we still have a little ways to go. And we need your help if possible.

Here is how you can help:

**Donating right now using this verified paypal account that we set up: http://funds.gofundme.com/GospelinRussia

** You can send a check to Grace Harbor @ 9 Esten Street Providence RI 02908 -with "Russia Missions" in the memo (This is a tax deductible option) 

**Most importantly: You can be praying for God's will, for the gospel to be proclaimed among the nations, for safety, for the city of Zavolzh'ye

In order to go on the trip tomorrow morning, We do not physically need your donation in hand but just a pledge of the amount being given. So if you can, please just respond to this email if you are able to give and how much.

Feel free to ask if you have questions.

Raise Money Online

In Christ,
Alissa

Russia Once Again!

Dear Friend,

I am preparing to go to Russia once again! 

When: February 25^th through March 6^th, 2011 


Where: Moscow and Zavolzhye Russia


With Who: a team of 6 others from Grace Harbor Community Church  and fellow JWU students.
  
What: We will be helping Christ Our Savior Church in Zavolzhy'e, Russia with their youth outreach by speaking in high school classes about American life and culture. These presentations are the platform by which we will build relationships with students wherein we can invite them to church and share the gospel. We will also be spending some days supporting a missionary family in Moscow, as we learn about their ministry and how to partner with them in the future.

Why Russia: Statistics on the country paint a bleak picture of a nation that is without hope. Less than 3% of the population claims to believe in the gospel of the Bible. Russia’s population drops by nearly 500,000 each year and there are more abortions every year than live births. The alcoholism rates in Russia are among the highest in the world and drug abuse and AIDS run rampant among the youth there. The only hope for Russia is the Gospel of Jesus Christ, and I am excited to witness firsthand how God will move.

What you can do: We will be meeting the spiritual needs of many people while serving and more than anything, prayer would be most beneficial support you can offer. God does answer prayers.


 I am asking that you pray for:

• safety
• travel
• financial support for other team members
• that we will have servants hearts
• that God will soften the hearts of those we meet
• that our service will be a blessing and encouragement 

 
               The trip cost is $1,800. Johnson & Wales (my SECULAR university) has appropriated a good chunk of money per student, and the other portion was from an anonymous scholarship credited to my student account. God has worked miracles to provide the whole thing, completely and unexpectedly.

Thank you so much for your time and prayers. I am so thankful for the body of Christ and am truly blessed beyond measure knowing that there are so many of you which I can truly call brother and sister because of Christ’s unimaginable love demonstrated for us on the cross. I pray that each one of you would be awestruck by the work of Calvary, and heartbroken for those without Christ. 

Dear Dad

I was cleaning my room this afternoon and stumbled upon a half written letter to my dad that I had started when I was in Russia. My heart was hoping I had left it in Russia and wouldn't have to deal with it, but alas, it made it into the pile of papers on my desk. I would give anything to go back, make myself finish it and send it to him. Who knows what would have happened, but then again, thats not what happened.



Hey Dad,
  Its Alissa. You might not have a lot of time or interest to continue reading, but I hope you do.
  I am writing to you from Zavolzhye, Russia, a small town about 6 hours north east of Moscow. I have been here for about two weeks, and already I have come to learn many things.
   In a small town where alcohol is very prevelent in family  issues, I just want to thank you for being an example for me and Kailey in the fact of not often drinking, and raising us to stay away from drunkenness. I also want to thank you for allowing us to attend private Christian school. The difference it has made in my life is incredible. Teachers who cared and honestly put my best interests in front.
  Growing up in this way has certainly brought me to where I am now- sharing the Gospel of God's love and forgiveness in an area of people who have never heard of such things.
   I am not going to pretend that everything is ok between us, because it's not. I feel hurt and sad at everything that has happened in the past year/few years, as well as the fact that we have never been emotionally or spiritually close. Im afraid that it might have to do with my own prideful mindset, and I truly want to apologize.
   You are my dad, and I am your daughter, and I love you, and I hope you love me. It would mean  the world to me if we could work past whatever is between us and be back on decent terms.

And thats where it ends.

Ephesians 4:26-27 says this:
“In your anger do not sin”: Do not let the sun go down while you are still angry, ²⁷ and do not give the devil a foothold."


One day of hurt feelings can easily turn into two, and that turns into two years. Before you know it, your dad is dead, and its too late to make things right. 


There are a lot of reasons that I could be upset with how my dad blew up our relationship and caused a lot of hurt to a lot of people. But I have no excuse when looking at the pride I let linger in my heart, the pride that said, "Well, you deserve to be hurt. Let him figure it out if he wants to make things right." What crap. What lies. 


I challenge, encourage, and implore you strongly, every single one of you, to go and fight for your families. There is absolutely no reason that you should not do whatever you can in your power to restore broken relationships- mother daughter, sister brother, father son, uncle niece, cousin cousin, etc.   You cannot force someone to accept this battle, but you can surely show them the love of Christ. Love that does hard things and battles sin. Then you pray, hard. 

Whats on Your Shelf: Mike?

For todays installment of On Your Shelf, we are lucky enough to get a participant from all the way across the world- Russia! Michael and his wife Karen are a career missionaries working in Nizhny Novgorod. I had the privilege of meeting them while I was over there, and they are a blessing. 

Check out Mike and Karen McDonald's blog HERE for some awesome updates about their ministry in Russia.

Whats on Your Shelf?

Kindle, Nook, or iPad? What do you think of e-readers?

Sony Ebook Reader – I like the Sony, it has it limitations, but it is nice to be able to carry one hundred books at a time – good for long Russian train rides.  The Nook gets bad revues.  Ipad is too big, Kindle looks awkward.  I used to own an RCA eBook reader – it was a first generation eBook reader.  The company was purchased by a bigger group, they then managed to bankrupt the company.  The reader was really well designed.  If they brought it back with “E-ink” technology I would buy it in a second.

Where do you most like to read? Anywhere

When? - Anytime

Favorite genre of literature?  History, apocalyptic novels (non-Christian), alternative history I will read the history of anything. Missionary bios and Methodist church history. I am trying to learn to read books that I don’t agree with, it helps me to see things from a broader perspective.

Best novel you’ve read? I really liked Exodus and Mila 18 by Leon Uris, but really how do you decide upon a favorite novel – I really don’t read a lot of what many readers consider “great”.

Most influential book in your life outside the Bible?  “God’s Smuggler” the book that sent me to Russia, and “God’s Guerrillas” (out of print) introduced me to missions and the need in Europe

Who are some of your favorite writers?

I actually don’t think in terms of favorite writers – it really depends upon the genre.

What makes their writing great?  See above

Do you have any “pet peeves” about writing?  Writers who say the same thing over and over again

Reading habits? (e.g., Pen in hand? Coffee? Diet Coke? Music playing?)   Coffee if possible, or something cold preferably Coke Lite

Elephant ear or bookmark?  Never, never, never turn down the page of a book – I do highlite in some books

Approximately how many volumes are in your personal library?  Several thousand. Most are packed in boxes.  I have probably given away or sold 1000 or more over the years.

Favorite children’s book?  The Runaway Bunny

Favorite library you’ve ever visited?  I find libraries overwhelming – to many books, to many choices.

Mini Expeditions: Maps

Ok. I have to share these wth you but to save a million spearate random blogs, I will consolidate into one nice little bloggy blog links that you can check out, or not.


Ten of the greatest: Maps that changed the world
Maps are sweet. This is awesome and interesting.


Old and New Russia Transposed
Pictures of old soviet war torn Russia transposed on new pictures. Pretty cool stuff and crazy to see how much of Russia is still the same.

Free Stuff To Do in Rhode Island
This list, "Tons of Fun, No Cost: 10 Great Things To Do For Free" is a great resource to find out free things to do in Rhode Island!

Travelogues by Alissa!

Hey Everyone! Yesterday morning was week 2 of my travel internship with Annie's Escapes in Cranston Rhode Island. Its been an awesome experience so far and I appreciate the knowledge that Anne is willing to impart to me.

This morning I did some interesting travel reading, filed travel brochures (some of which I got to keep!), and called CVBs (Convention Visitor Bureaus) to get artwork for an article in a local bridal magazine about honeymoons. I was on the phone with people from New Orleans, Key West, to Nantucket. Cool, and I will take any opportunity to improve my phone skills.

Then I was asked to create some content for the website. So I wrote an article about Russia which I encourage you to check out here
@ http://www.anniesescapes.com/an-off-the-beaten-track-treasure/  


This is an exciting opportunity to have my writing published in a variety of outlets.

Exciting!

Quick Departure, Long Journey

Well hello people!
After 31 straight hours of traveling, I arrived in Providence on Thursday evenning weary, delusional, and terribly smelly - typical side effects no doubt.

My departure happened just as fast as my arrival. Pastor Sasha gets to the apartment, throws my stuff in the car and says "ok lets go." Just like that. Im walking out of the building trying to hold back tears, which would  be to complicated to explain to my Russian friends.

We get to the train station in Nizhny Novgorod and I know I am in for a long night. My two bunkmates, older Russian men, change into pajamas and pass out, snoring obnoxiously loud. The lights are out. A third roommate comes into the room at the next stop, but its dark and we dont talk. I cant sleep due to the noise and the awkward closeness of being in a tiny room with 3 sleeping strangers.

Upon arrival in Moscow, my third roommate happens to be a Russian young lady who speaks English! Just my luck. We conversate and learn that we are going to the same metro stop. She even buys me my train ticket. From a scalper none the less, "Are these tickets going to work?" .."Hope so!" She exclaims. After getting on the metro we talk more and exchange thank-you's and business cards and then get off and go our separate ways.

I ride the Aero-Express to the Sheremetyevo International Airport, the most annoying airport in the world pretty much. I had a packed backpack, a heavy duffel bag, and another carryon with random things. The moral of the story is not to pack more than you can carry, but I had even left behind books, socks, boots, and toiletries. Walking 10 miles through the airport killed my arms and I was halfway exhausted already.

The flight was 10 hours from Moscow to New York City, and not terrible, but I couldnt sleep. They played movies, Thank God, otherwise it would have been a lot more harder to get through those 10 long hours.

My friends Leeta and Niki picked me up and we spent 4.5 hours driving back to Providence, usually only a 3 hours drive -- Connecticut wasnt my friend.

I got home at 7:30pm. Took a much needed shower, and walked over to my pastors house to hang out with some people. Luckily, I was in bed by 10:30pm, and didnt have to be to work until noon the next day. Slept like a rock. God Bless America. I really miss Russia, but its good to be back.

Farewell for Now.

I never thought I would feel this sad to leave Russia. But I do, and it is basically uncontrollable.

Tonight we had a farewell party for me which consisted of all my English Club, and those from the church heading into the forest for a bon-fire, roasted hotdogs, and games. The mood was generally upbeat, and people kept saying “it’s a cheerful night, because we know we will see you again.” I have battled with God about that exact sentiment, and I believe it is true. When and how? Im not quite sure yet.

Three months is a pretty short time frame for someone like me. I am an observer, I take a while to dive into change and I need to assess situations before I really know how to handle them. Its basically taken me 2.5 months to get used to culture, people, and the language, and now its time to leave.  I did not fully realize how much I have fallen in love with the people here until this week. Their constant encouragement and gratitude has blown me away, and to see the work that God is doing here -- well, its just too much for words.

Tonight, I cry. Their hugs linger in my mind.
A 13 year old girl who has never spoken English to me, ran up today and gave me a big hug and said "I like you." My friend Ilya politely asked "May I?" And then proceeded to hug me for five minutes and just repeated "thank you thank you thank you." A young woman who I have especially gotten to know remembered that it was my birthday in a few weeks and gave me a beautiful necklace and she hugged me as she said goodbye.

The friendships made in these 3 months are deep. I know I have a family here. People from the community who had never step foot inside a church before coming to the English Club now know they have a family here.

And most importantly, they know who God is, and they want to know more.

Tomorrow (or should I say, later tonight) I leave in a car for Nizhny Novgorod where I will then take an overnight train to Moscow where I will fly into New York City and get picked up and head to Rhode Island. I will never be the same, and I am hoping and praying for God to continue his great work here in Zavolzh'ye as well as in my heart.

Thank you to everyone who has made this experience possible. Please keep Zavolzh'ye in your prayers, as well as clarity for me on future endeavors in Russia.  

More stories to come, just you wait. 

Friends and family, Catch ya on the flip side. 
-Alissa 

I wish it were easier...

Dial-up internet is just a common place thing here. Except, dial-up internet is finicky and most websites just crap out after 20 minutes of trying to load. 


I wish it were easier to blog. 

When I get home from a really awesome day, sometimes I just want to share a really great picture that captures it all, but it wont upload.  


To be honest, every blog post Ive written in the past 3 months has been written and scheduled in 2-3 week blocks... whenever I have time to go to Mike's apartment and use his high speed, I go blog crazy, writing everything I can think of, and then scheduling the posts for weeks out. It makes my blog feel empty and useless, like I'm not really here. But I am, I promise. And I love you all for keeping up with me and commenting. 


I wish a lot of things about living in Russia were easier. The cost of a plane ticket. The distance to the USA. Finding peanut butter. Learning the language. Trying to be polite about eating dill fish soup.  Not knowing how people really think of you. Not having summer clothes when its 80 degrees out. Ministry.
 
But despite the hardships, my good God is sufficient. He has provided me with real lifelong friendships. He has provided me with food that sustains me. He has provided me with such special people that support me and pray for me. He has provided me with a cool breeze during the humid days. He has provided me with His word that brings new life and breath into my crusty old bones. He has provided me with a salvation that promises life and joy. He has provided me with a mouth to share, and He has provided me with love, so that I may love. 

Thank you for sticking with me. Soon I wont have to rely on the "schedule your blog" feature. 
God is good. 
-Alissa 

Children's Circle Saturdays!

From Left to Right: Olya, Mark, Ira, Sasha, Elya, David, Dima

Every Saturday some kids come over for a little Bible Study! The first time they met me they were just so pumped about being able to use their English! Elya, the boy in the lower right hand corner, even brought his English/Russian dictionary the second time! Anya, my host roommate, leads the discussion with some fun games, and a lesson about something. As far as I can understand they are learning about the book of Exodus.

After the bible study they ALWAYS have tea and mini-cakes or cookies. Last week I made them popcorn and they were just so happy because they love popcorn but dont get to eat it often I guess.

I love these kids and will miss them alot!

A Russian Picnic, with a little bit of BBQ!

Just a follow-up to my lame post from this past weekend. Russia celebrates Labor Day on May 3rd, and we all went out for a fun picnic by the Large Dam. I bought some BBQ sauce. There was chicken to be enjoyed, fellowship fun, exploring, and good times for all! It was also a great group because there were so many awesome English speakers! Good job Andre, Tanya, Elya, and Dima! Love these people =)

Fun!

-Alissa-

Day of Spring and Labor

The Day of Spring and Labor / Праздник Весны и Труда (day off)
May 1, 2010
In 2010, the date falls on a Saturday and so May 3, a Monday, will also be a day off work.

Formerly International Worker's Solidarity Day under the old Communist system, it seems that everyone calls this one something different now. "Labor Day," "The May Holiday," and "Worker's Day" all seem to be used, but everyone at least uses the same date. It is celebrated with parades, concerts, food, and drink and traditionally kicks off the dacha season.

Taken from the this link.

The Beautiful Russian Forest

So the other day I went for a walk.

I discovered a beautiful forest.

In that beautiful forest, I discovered an even more beautiful forest of birch trees. They were unending.

Further through the Birch forest I stumbled upon a gorgeous lake. The lake was hand made after digging out peet moss for farmers. The ground around the whole lake is like a giant sponge. Old ladies come here early in the morning to swim, winter through summer.

The Russian forest is astoundingly beautiful, and I have my escapes there.

Russian Crab Salad

FINALLY! A Russian salad that I can excitedly recommend. This is so delicious and I just couldnt stop myself. Perfect for a party or just an awesome recipe to share with family and friends. Try it out!

Ingredients:  
1 cup of dry Basmati or similar type of rice,
4 eggs
250 - 300 gr. of crabmeat or imitation crabmeat,
1 small can of sweet corn
2-3 table spoons of grated cheddar or old gauda cheese  
3-4 table spoons of mayonnaise.

Directions:
1. Boil the rice, so it remains "friable", not sticky. Do not overcook!
2. Hard boil the eggs.
3. Let rice and eggs to cool down to the room temperature.
4. Cut crabmeat in small cubes,
5. Cut eggs into small cubes,
6. Open corn can, pour out the liquid.
7. Mix rice, corn, cheese, crabmeat and eggs.
8. Add mayonnaise at least 30 min before serving, stir.
9. Put in a big salad bowl, decorate with greens and black olives.

Checkin out Chkalov, Russia

Located approximately 95 miles northwest of Nizhny Novgorod, and situated right on the bank of the Volga River, Chkalov (Russian: Чка́ловск) is a small old fashioned town named for the worl renowned Russian aviator Valery Chkalov.

Mike, Natasha, Me, and Lena

We visited Chkalov on a frigidly cold day, and did not get to really see much of the town. We did however stop by the banks of the Volga River. In the background you can see the banks of Gorodets and Zavolzh'ye.

I would recommend checking out the Cklalov Museum. Its filled with all sorts of awesome things. They have so many historical items from Valery Chkalovs flights and from his life. The museum is housed in the very home where he grew up, and even features a recreation of his bedroom, office, and living space. They have many of his flight uniforms, and show some of the awards and maps from his flights. In a separate warehouse off to the side, see above, there are some of the actual planes that Chkalov flew. The large plane you see above was flown from Moscow to Vancouver, over the North Pole. That was a 63 hour flight. Whoa man.

The town has some good restaurants, and for about 8 bucks (250 rubles) you can get soup, salad, and a main course.

If you are ever traveling through the area, dont make Chkalov a full day stop, but for a quick afternoon, definitely hit it up!

Russia Playlist

In my past, I have often had certain songs or playlists that if I were to listen to know, I would specifically think of that time in my life.

For example, Michelle Branch music reminds me of my whole middle school years. Norah Jones reminds me of my mom. Shaggy reminds me of 6th grade when we would all hang out at my house. Kt Tunstall and Gnarls Barkley remind me of the time after my parents got divorced and we moved in with my grandparents. Chromeo and JayZ remind me of freshmen year in college and hanging out with Alex.

I realized that I have a “Russia playlist.” These songs have been on replay since I’ve gotten here, kicking up their play count at least 40 times per song. I love them all for different reasons. Some just catch with me, or some I can relate to, or they challenge me, or encourage me to pursue God. They are great songs and I recommend you check them out.

• Phil Wickham: Divine Romance
• JJ Heller: Only Love Remains
• JJ Heller: My Saviour’s Love Endures
• Bon Iver: Skinny Love
• Fernando Ortega: I Need Thee Every Hour
• Junior Caldera: What You Get
• Passion Pit: Live to Tell the Tale
• Morandi: Colors
• David Crowder Band: Come Thou Fount




What songs are in your life’s playlists?

Unexpected Phone Call

I usually know when my phone is going to ring. Maybe it is Natasha or Pastor Sasha outside, letting me know that I should come out and meet them. Or maybe Anya is calling me to make sure I am safe. Actually, those are the only two reasons my phone rings, and when Im not expecting a call, I dont even bother to keep my phone on me.

Tonight, my phone started ringing unexpectedly. Even though numbers of key people are programmed into my phone, every number always shows up as unknown. As I looked at this unknown number, thought began racng through my head, who is this? is there an emergency somewhere? did I do something wrong?

I picked it up, and Pastor Sasha urgently greeted me. "Alissa, I need you to listen. I have to tell you important information."

Oh lord, I thought to myself. Am I getting deported? Do they not need me at the English Club anymore?

He continued, "Do you understand that you must listen?"

"Da, ya paneemiyo."  (Yes, I Understand)

"Ok, tomorrow at English Club you have an important task. A beautiful girl will come. Her name is Marta. She is 15. You must be her friend. This is important. Work hard to be her friend."

A wave of relief and slight comedy came over me. I was ok, and I was up to this task. And no one is dying.

"She might invite you to her home. She might invite you to visit with her. Work hard to be her friend. We need her to come to church. Her mom said she doesnt have many friends. She is depressed. But she is interested in English. She is interested in being your friend."

Oh wow. The pressure is on. I told Sasha that I understood, and that I was ready to work hard to be friends.

"Ok. Alissa. This is important. Good bye." Typical Sasha communication: Abrupt, intense, and careful, yet slightly funny as he was being intentionally dramatic. I love it.

Sometimes unexpected phone calls can bring terrible news, but sometimes they can bring a bit of humor and a challenge. This one brought a challenge of prayer and friendship. Tomorrow I will aim to make friends with a beautiful girl named Marta.

Lets hope it works out.

My Typical Day?

Some of you have been asking what my typical day is like. So in this post I will aim to answer that question.

First of all, every day is different.  

But, keeping that in mind, lets explore.

I wake up every morning feeling like p.diddy.  (no not really)

Most mornings I wake up between 8:30-10:30. The first thing I do every morning is open the window and take a breathe of fresh air, embracing the coolness. After a sweaty night of heat, it is refreshing. I groggily walk to the kitchen, light a match, turn on the stovetop, and boil some hot water. 
While the water boils I wander around, hook up the internet, brush my teeth, and try not to fall back asleep. The pot whistles and I make coffee, which I then stick in the freezer. 
During my ice-coffee making time, I jump in the shower for a refreshing, cold water experience. 

10am Tuesdays, Thursdays, & Fridays. Masha, an 18 year old, stylish, energetic, college student comes over to my apartment. Both our 2nd language skills are terrible, so we have to use the computer translator to talk to each other. But we work on some vocab, listen to some Christian songs in English, and just repeat some phrases. She leaves around 11am.

Afternoons. I am free to do as I please. Most afternoons are made up of studying.  I typically read my bible, do some journaling, read one of the books I brought with me. And I surf the web. Not mindlessly, mind you, but I look for information regarding ESL teaching tools, teacher resources, topics for the week for the English Club, help from other ESL teachers, etc. I also browse christian websites like TheGospelCoalition, DesiringGod, and Boundless as a means of growth. 

Random times, I will head to the grocery store to pick up food for that day, some produce, cereal, cheese, and ORANGE JUICE. I live off orange juice. Today I tried some tuna though, and it wasnt bad. During these random times I will also go for a walk around town- to the forest, take some pictures, or take a nap, or catch up on emails and whatnot. I try to schedule visits with people during these random times as well. Even if its just going on a walk with a young mom from the English Club.

The English Language Club meets Tuesday and Thursday from 6-7:30pm, and Saturdays from 11-12:30am. I head to the church an hour and a half early to set up all the equipment. The members come, we have conversations and practice our English, read from the bible, following up with a movie in English. This week we watched some clips from the Tennessee River Aquarium, pretty cool stuff.

Meetings, hanging out, all the rest. Saturday Nights are a weekly Chidlren's "Good News" Club with 5 or 6 kids from the neighborhood. They are adorable and its one of my favorite parts of the week. They learn about God and get some snacks! Sunday's are always the busiest day. Church the morning, followed up with a visit to someone's home or to a nearby city for some walking, and then Youth Club in the evenning. I usually dont get home until late. Other free time is spent intentionally hanging out with someone who isnt from the church. Building relationships is an important tool in evangelism.


And then I sleep. Thank God for sleep.  

   

Moscow Out: Russian Cuisine

On this week's Moscow Out, Martyn Andrews and his crew explore the history and ingredients of Russia's most popular dishes. From tasty solyanka soup to delicious beef stroganoff - we meet local chefs, find out secret recipes and visit a range of restaurants that serve mouth-watering Russian Cuisine. Is Russian food healthy or not? How does the climate effect what people eat - we find out! Knives and forks at the ready!


Original program found here

The Soul of Russia: Fascinating Look Into Russian Orthodoxy

This article from National Geographic is literally the most fascinating article I have ever read on the Russian Orthodox Church pre- and post Soviet Union. The article chronicles an introspective man’s journey and observations about the battle that the church has faced in the past 80 years. It goes on to tell of some of the victories that the Orthodox church has experienced, as well as short comings and failures.

This article slightly touches on the friction between western denominations, or “sects,” and the people of Russia, as well as the perceived desire for the Orthodox church to become the state church.

 I recommend that you check it out. click the title below.

Soul of Russia By Serge Schmemann 


Interesting tidbit:
"The Soviet regime was the product of faithlessness, but at least it allowed real believers to live the flame of faith," he says. "Today we are more concerned with fighting sects and 'enemies' than with repentance. These forces are tearing the church from within."

According to Nikolai Mitrokhin, a historian and critic of the church, about 60 percent of Russians today identify themselves as Orthodox—they may be baptized, married, and buried in the church—but less than one percent actually enter a church at least once a month. Other sources put the figure closer to 10 percent. One reason for the sparse attendance may be that the Orthodox Church is not entirely friendly to people who are casual or clueless about its hallowed traditions."