We went to a small church here in Vilnius today. We found it on the internet before we came to Lithuania. It's called Grace Baptist Church of Vilnuis. Everyone was very nice. The pastor preaches in English (he's from Ohio) while another man interprets in Lithuanian (standing beside the pastor) and another man off to the side speaks Russian into a microphone (those people listen with an earphone). It was quite interesting, but we definitely felt the love of God there. Some of the songs were in Lithuanian, some in English and some we sang first in English and then Lithuanian. Lina sang along. I wa
s glad she could listen along as well ... it was the perfect set up for us!Last night, when I told her that we were going to church, she looked quizzically between me and the dictionary and asked, "why?" I told her that in America, KC and I go to church and we have lots of friends there. I asked her if she had ever been to church and she said that she'd been twice last year to prayer for her brother. (He died when she was nine.)
Anyway, she got a little squirmy, but so did I. Not knowing how long a service usually goes makes it seem abnormally long. It was about two hours. Afterward, we talked to the pastor more and he invited us to his house on Wednesday (they live in the countryside). Of course, he has to check with his wife first. She's pregnant with twins and they have eight children ... not sure if that counts the twins or not? They have a couple girls around Lina's age, so we thought that would be good. The church also has a Youth Group night on Thursday that we thought we'd check out. Who knows, they might really like playing "Shuffle Your Buns" as much as our Youth Group kids do! :)
Their church website is www.church.lt. They are actually doing a wheelchair distribution in May with Joni & Friends. We really like this church ... good people!
We explained to Lina that God brought us to her and that God loves her. She pretty much just said okay. At least she didn't call Elona and say that she didn't want to go to church!
Well, that's about it for now ... not sure when the next post will be. We are scheduled to visit a different orphanage tomorrow with Elona. Okay, now I'm just stalling because KC and Lina are bonding over the dictionary across the table from me and I don't want to interupt such a sweet scene. You (everyone who reads this) will love Lina ... she really does fit in so well.
Lots of love to you all!
Michele, KC & Lina
4 comments:
Michele, KC and Lina - It is so touching to see the three of you bond a s a family from so far away. I know that once Lina gets to her permanent home here, the three of you will make such an incredible family. I cannot wait for the day when Jason and I finally get to meet her. All of you have brought Jason and I such hope that we are now looking into adoption. (I know it is a little wierd KC, since I normally do not like children all the much, but lately Jason and I have both been feeling a little different on that score!) Anyway, I love the fact that you guys have found the church, and Lina didn't object. That in itself is great news. Tell Lina hello from us, and we hope to see the next blog soon!
momanddad - did you try putting in the email address that your username is under instead of just the username?
I had no idea that there is an english speaking church in Vilnius. every day seems to packed full of adventure, I bet Lina sees how much life has to offer. It is like two angels appeared to offer her a different view on life. We are so happy!When are you bringing Lina home if everything goes well with the adoption agency?Do you know yet? with Love Neringa
Dear Uncle K.C., Antie Chele and Lina
jjhklp;pppppeporolo5cr95io6k6k6k6 k6k6676kl 7k7kk,78 l.786vccccccccc4 45465&
love
Tobey and Tavish
There you go. A note from Tobey & Tavish. I hope the video comes through soon. It will be really cool for Lina to meet the pastors kids. jason and jocelyn - IT WORKED!! THANKS! Nice picture Michele - with the drink! :)
Look forward to hearing and seeing more. Love you much. Mom M
Post a Comment