Dennis Braga – Pskov, Russia

Hey Everyone

Just wanted to let you know that we made it safe to Pskov (a little behind schedule). Our long flight across the Atlantic was delayed for over an hour, so we missed our сonnecting flight from Frankfurt to St. Petersburg. It was pretty crazy running around the airport trying to figure out how to reach Jim (who was waiting for us in St. Pete) and tell him that we were going to be 6 hours late. This also meant we made the 4 hour van ride from St. Pete to Pskov at night instead of during the day. We arrived in Pskov around 11PM went straight to bed and then get up and get ready for church.

There are actually several groups involved with Pskov this summer: California team, St. Pete team, Penza (Russian city) team, Latvia team and a Boston team. The other groups are all Russian speakers, so we are called “The Americans.” Because of all the guests, the service was extra long especially if every team speaks one message and sings two songs. After being here a day, it doesn’t seem I have been gone for a whole year because so many things are familiar. One of the most encouraging things from this past year was that my host mother’s (Natasha) mom repented and came to Christ (a few months ago). Natasha asked us over dinner at the home tonight to pray for her because she has cancer. She is scheduled to be baptized in about a week or so.

Our basic schedule is going to be similar to last summer: work during the day beautifying the courtyard area infront of the flats (apartments), then play sports with the local kids. After dinner, go back to the courtyard where the Russian groups will put on an outdoor service. While the service is going on, the Americans will mingle with the crowd and on lookers. It definitely will be a full schedule and should have no problem sleeping despite the sun shinning at 10 o’clock at night.

Thank you for your prayers. It is humbling having all the support I have and thank you for your encouragement as well.

1 Timothy 1:12

Den