A Prayer for the Fall

Pray for Almaz Church as they begin a new season of church ministry...

Gracious God,

As the season changes, we are reminded that you are an unchanging God, but it is your desire to continue to change us--to mold and shape us, to teach us to have faith like a child. Lord, be our teacher!

Lord, teach us to praise. We praise you for awe, wonder, and excitement as new programs and plans are introduced in our denomination and individual churches this fall.

Lord, teach us to confess. At this time of year, we are inundated with busyness. Forgive us, Lord, when our busyness overshadows you.

Lord, teach us to be thankful. We are thankful that in teaching us, you change us. Teach us, Lord, to trust in you for guidance and direction.

Lord, help us realize the magnitude of your grace and then to teach others what it means to live with that grace. As we seek to further your kingdom, fill us with the same exuberance, wonder, and awe that we see in children at the beginning of a new school year.

Amen.

Turn off music below and hit pause to watch video...

Indescribable

Trailer 2011

30 August 2011, Tuesday

Going to the Ukraine was definitely an amazing experience. As soon as I decided to go, I knew it would be an adventure. Early on in the process, I felt God calling me towards missions, but I wasn’t sure where.

Once the door opened for Ukraine, I treaded on faith that God would make it happen if it was His plan. Once the support raising began and planning meetings took place, I felt more of God’s presence as the days went on. It really sunk in when the pastors from Almaz, our sister church in Ukraine, came to [nlcf] to share about their church. I still remember the night they came and spoke, and that is when I really knew that going to the Ukraine was part of God’s plan for my life.

We finally departed for Ukraine, not totally sure of what would be coming, but fully expectant that God would work in and through our team. God started teaching me things and laying things on my heart very soon into the trip. For example, one of the first things I realized was how many little things I take for granted. I often forget how fortunate I am to be living in America with two loving parents in a Christ-centered family.

Meeting the Ukrainian team was very exciting. Seeing their perception of Christianity and how it differed from a typical American’s was very interesting. I noticed that many of the Ukrainians clearly saw Christianity as a gift, something so amazing and so exciting that they truly wanted others to have this gift as well. During a game, a question was asked to one Ukrainian, “If you knew that you would die tomorrow, what would you do today?” He responded by saying that he would go out in the streets and shout about Jesus because he would no longer have any fears or worries. That struck me in an awesome way. It made an impression on my heart that these people really cared about the mission that God has given us.

Throughout the week, the guys worked on various construction projects while the girls played with the children, showing God’s love. With projects ranging from enclosing a porch with polycarbonate siding to preparing the foundation for a playground, I knew that God’s work was being accomplished.

Since I hadn’t had the opportunity to play with the children yet, I decided to play with the children some on my last day there. I am definitely glad I did. So far on the trip, I had only seen disabled children near the building we were working at. I found out that not all the children were disabled, but other buildings held young kids full of energy and curiosity. Minus the fact that they spoke no English, they seemed just like typical American kids playing. I had a blast finding out that play is a universal language.

When we left and started our trek back to Blacksburg, I knew that God had moved. He had moved in my heart, and also in the hearts of those we met. He impressed upon me the importance of following His call. He gave me a heart for the Almaz church and those children at the orphanage. By the conversations I had with the Ukrainian team and the smiles on the faces of the beautiful children, I knew God was smiling too.

For an update on The Almaz Ministry...

please visit their website from Ukraine www.almazgo.com
See what this wonderful church has been doing for the orphans in Ukraine...

Please consider helping the Skripak Family meet their goal for their van!

The Skripak Family is still trying to hold on to their larger van which they desperately need to fit their family and missions teams. Those who can and are able please consider donating to save their van so they will not have to let it go..Any contribution will help..They are trying to raise $7000 to pay it off....They can not fit into a regular car and must have 3 car seats to drive legally in Ukraine.

Thank you and God Bless You!

Missions to Vorzel

The missions to Vorzel are happening this month and last...It maybe too late to be involved for this year, but if anyone would like to get involved for next spring/summer trips to Ukraine...please email Pastor Sasha at the above email...it's never to soon to plan. You will be glad you did...
Pictures & Info on the recent weeks at Vorzel coming soon!

WELCOME TO THE ORPHAN MINISTRY IN UKRAINE

We invite you to share the joy that the orphan ministry can bring! On May 30th we opened up a new season of the summer projects in the orphanage in Vorzel. During this summer we will be serving the kids age 1through 6 as well as reaching with the Gospel about 200 workers of the orphanage. THe program of the summer project includes

Daily lessons for children twice a day.
Bible study for the workers twice a week.
Bringing workers and older kids to the church service.
Construction work:
2 playgrounds in the orphanage buildings that have no playgrounds.
reconstruction of two restrooms
reconstruction of two rooms where 30 kids live all year around
total replacing of plumbing in one of the orphanage buildings
We are looking for and delivering any humanitarian aid need like diapers, clothing, vitamins, medicine
Please, pray for us and ask GOd to provide all the necessary resources: spiritual, human and financial. You can follow our news daily www.almazGO.com

Thank you for staying with us during the summer!

Sasha and Olya Skrypak
Leaders of the Orphan ministry in Almaz church

1 June 2011, Wednesday

Today the men were assigned to help build the foundation of the future playground. The concrete was supposed to come at two and we were to prepare the location for the concrete in the meantime. The morning consisted of all the men shoveling gavel or hand mixing concrete for specific locations to assist in leveling the foundation. We had a great time working extremely hard in the sun. Around 11:30, David and I stopped working on the foundation and went to one of the houses where the children were putting on a show. They were 3-5 yr olds and extremely cute! I WOULD HAVE LOVED TO KNOW WHAT THEY WERE SINIGING! It’s a bit difficult when they’re singing in Russian. However, we’ve all been enjoying learning to communicate with one another without using our full vocabulary and everyone is trying to learn new words in the other language. After the concert, David and I returned to the playground area and continued hard labor. We are all loving the hard work and the breaks with the kids. The concrete didn’t come today, but this gave us all time to finalize the prepping of the site and clean up for a great dinner/picnic in Pastor Nickoli’s backyard. It was a great meal to end a great day.

Jesse Bogert

Tuesday May 31st

Section: Missionary project in Vorzel (summer 2011)
31 May 2011, Tuesday

Today we kept in mind a few verses from Exodus chapter four, verses 11-12. In this God reminds us that we do not have control over the way that things are on this earth. God knows that there are orphans among us that do not have parents. He knows that there are children who are not born with eyes, a hand, or legs. He knows that all of these things have a purpose and work together into His intricate plan for humanity, yet we do not see the purpose behind these things that are. These verses remind us how important it is to remember that God created the world and has everything under control and that He brings glory to His name in everything He does, even if we do not see it as well.

Today the women played with the children that we met yesterday. We had a wonderful time reuniting with the children and we continued to share the love of Christ with them by loving on them and playing with them. It was much hotter today than yesterday because there was no breeze and we became tired much faster, but we still had a good time playing with the children. The children are so easily amused that it is easy for us to just play. The difficult part about interacting with them is when we try to speak to them or understand them. I don’t know much Ukrainian or Russian and they don’t know much English. However, Sasha pointed out this morning at the team meeting that we all understand one common language…Love. Some of the guys also came up to the children and played.

Is it possible now for foreigners to adopt a child from Ukraine? What awaits Ukraine's orphans?

Section: Some news
31 May 2011, Tuesday

On the 19th of May 2011 Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine (Parliament) passed a law “About amending the Family code of Ukraine regarding specifics of adoption of a certain class of children”. The law forbids adopting children for those persons who due to their health grounds need to be nursed on a regular basis; stateless persons and those who marry such person who can’t be an adoptive parent.This law also allows adopting children without parent consent in case if they didn’t take a child out of public health service’s institution.

The law also states that a child who is a national of Ukraine can be adopted by a foreign national in case if for more than a year he/she is registered at the central authority of the executive branch which competence covers issues of adopting and protection of children and he/she came of 5 yearsold. An adoption can be accomplished before the stated period and also before reaching by a child of 5 years old in the following cases:

An adopter is a relative of a child
A child suffers from a disease that enters a special disease list confirmed by the Ministry of Health of Ukraine.
Foreign nationals are willing to adopt a child who is brother or sister of before adopted by them child
Adoption of all siblings in one family if one of children reached 5 years old and if not less than a year he/she is registered at the central authority of the executive branch which competence covers issues of adopting and protection of children
If you have any questions, please write to skripak2007@gmail.com

xрещення 28 червня 2011

On the 28th of April 7 people from our church made a covenant with God by means of water baptism.


On the 28th of April 7 people from our church made a covenant with God by means of water baptism. Alexander Skrypak a Pastor of “Almaz” church started this joyful event with a sermon on the 6th Chapter from the Epistle to the Romans. In this way he reminded to those who came to be baptized and to everyone else of the meaning of water baptism which is the symbol of our immersion into Jesus Christ.

There were also some unbeliever relatives of those who got to be baptized. The baptism ceremony was led by another “Almaz” church Pastor – Nikolay Skopych. The next day all 7 of those who got baptized were announced as new church members on a Sunday service. There were announced also 3 other people who decided to become “Almaz” church members that joined them.

It never fails to amaze as our Lord again and again adds to the church those that were saved. It’s very moving to see as people that just recently lived in rebellion against God now confess their faith in Jesus Christ, show total commitment to Him and a desire to follow Him till the rest of their lives. Be the Glory to Him for all of it!

сессии ЦБШ"А"

Almaz Church Bible School

Our Goal....

To display the majestic glory of God through perfection of God’s children into mature and joyful servants.
Every session, every home assignment, work of the students on their home assignments, practice of students’ serving, teachers and student mentors’ serving – all directed at reaching the above goal.

Our Curriculum...

The School has 2 levels of training.

Level 1 “Foundations of Faith” – Length of study: 2 years

1.Doctrine of the Bible
2.Hermeneutics
3.Doctrine of God
4.Doctrine of Man
5.Doctrine of Sin
6.Doctrine of Salvation
7.Doctrine of Christ
8.Doctrine of Holy Spirit
9.Doctrine of the End Tames

Level 1 “Practical Ministry” – Length of study: 1 year

1.Doctrine of the Church
2.Personal Spiritual Life: Imparting the Word of God to One’s Heart
3.Discipleship: Imparting the Word of God to a Disciple
4.Small Groups: Imparting the Word of God in the Context of Home Groups
5.Leadership: Specifics of Biblical Leadership
6.Preaching: Imparting the Word of God to Great Audiences
7.Christian Counseling: Imparting the Word of God to Troubled Hearts
8.Evangelism: Imparting the Word of God to the Lost

Length of a session day
Teaching time: 6 hours. Total time: 9 hours.

Average level of participation
65 persons. We make exceptions only when holding sessions in the form of conference. In this case, the sessions participation is around 300 persons. We turn to this form of training when we want to teach a topic to as many people as possible. In these cases beside students our other close friends can attend the conference.
Every session includes lecturing and working on home assignments.


Our Staff

Nickolay Skopych,
Teaching Pastor, one of the founders and teaching pastor of the Christian Evangelical Church “Almaz” in Kyiv, graduate of the Ukrainian Bible Seminary, Master of Theology.

Nickolay Bibikov,
Student Mentor, Level 1 ”Foundations of Faith”

Liliya Litvin,
Student Mentor, Level 2 “Practical Ministry”




February-April 2011 Sessions

In February-April 2011, the Course “Doctrine of the Holy Spirit (Pneumatology)” was taught at Almaz Church Bible School. The Course was taught during two sessions.

In February 2011, we held the Conference “Holy Spirit, His Essence and Actions.” It gathered 280 participants from various cities of Ukraine. This was a record number of participants as compared to the previous Almaz Church conferences. We believe it is a testimony to many Christians’ interest in the Biblical teaching of the Holy Spirit and, on the other hand, to their hunger for the Word of God and the study of Truth. This is, no doubt, a cause of joy.

During the Conference “Holy Spirit, His Essence and Actions” for one day the teaching on the person and deity of the Holy Spirit, His actions and manifestations during the Old Testament and New Testament times was presented. Taking into account the number of serious mistakes in understanding this topic in the modern day we spent a considerable time dealing with the details of baptism with the Holy Spirit, spiritual gifts, Holy Spirit’s role in a person’s spiritual re-birth. It was pointed out that the rights understanding of the third Person of the Trinity and His actions is extremely important for every Christian and the Church as a whole. At the same time, deviations from the right understanding of the truth of the Scripture may lead Christians to failure in their spiritual life.

The photo report on the conference can be found at http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Uw81gW8_dUM.
In April 2011, the one but last Level 1 “Foundations of Faith” session of the Almaz Church Bible School for the students of the first admission took place. We studied issues connected to the actions of the Holy Spirit in lives of Christians. In this session, we presented diplomas for the previous courses taken.

Future Planning

On May 29th, 2011, we plan to have a ceremonial presentation of diplomas to the students successfully completing the program of the “Deep Foundations of Faith” Level of the School. We plan to invite special guest and congratulate the graduates.
In September 2011, the School will enroll the second group of students for the Level 1 “Deep Foundations of Faith.” At the same time, we are starting courses of Level 2 “Practical Ministry” where we enroll the graduates of Level 1.
Viktoriya Demchuk, student, 25

“During the session, I kept wondering at the greatness of God and His kindness to sinful people, His boundless love for us. I was also struck by the humility of Jesus and His faithfulness to His Father. I understood better that my sins are real, that they have eternal consequences, and that the sacrifice of Christ covered them. It is hard for me to realize just how great was the mission of Christ that now allows me to live a life of joy at the feet of Him, Who also gives me strength to live a pure holy life. He is my Lord!

Understanding of Who Jesus is helps me praise Him more in my prayers. When I know more about Christ’s Person, it helps me follow in His footsteps in every sphere of life: His obedience to the will of His Father helps me seek God’s will and fulfill it in my ministry, His humility teaches me to be as humble in team work or in simple relationships with friends. The last session of the School, the Doctrine of Christ, made me once again think of Who Christ is and how important His role is in my life.”

Children in my Heart!

This is the time of year when I first went to Ukraine...May of 2009. We were already a large family of 9, but God was pulling us to adopt 3 more little children with Down Syndrome from Vorzel Ukraine. It brings a smile to my face to think of the orphanage and all the children who were at Vorzel when we first visited, and who are now with their own special families. It still amazes me, though I know it shouldn't how God works things in your life. We think we are in control most times, but God is when you let Him. God is very capable and all knowing.

When we got to Ukraine...we rushed to our appointments with our facilitator...After that we would go first to Baby House #3 and see our little Masha, who is still tiny and darling as ever. There I would also see Ivanna, Vladik & Timothy and some other regulars through out my 2 months in Ukraine. These children touched my heart and life like nothing else...

After 30 minutes or so we would rush down to Baby house #5 and see Milena & Luda..who lived together. They both have been such a joy and are also so darling and along with Masha & make me laugh & smile everyday. When I spend time with them I often think of their little life in Vorzel and all the other children who were there with them. There are many families we have contact with still who have taken the leap of faith and obeyed God's calling in their lives...for this I am grateful. All children deserve a family to love them unconditionally..and every family deserves the blessings of a child with Down Syndrome...

Many times we miss God's calling because of our own agenda. We think we are in control of our own lives. In some aspects of course we are, ...but in the stillness is when we can hear God's calling the best. During prayer & quiet times. I am grateful today for my salvation and God picking me...why me? Why my husband? why anyone? Well we are all called to come to know Jesus as Saviour...but not all hear. Some are deaf to God's call. This is very sad for Christians...knowing others who will not answer when God knocks at the door of their hearts. Maybe today you will ask Jesus into your heart and admit you are a sinner and need a Saviour. There is no other way to heaven..not by your works which alone are worthless to God..

I am so happy we listened to God's call of Adoption. He placed adoption on our hearts when we were 1 st married in 1993. We saw a special television documentary on orphans and adoption and this stirred our concern. I soon after got pregnant and was told to wait until our own child was 6 months old. By that time I was pregnant again with our 2 nd child and our adoption plan was put on hold. Years later we were reminded again at our church when a couple adopted twins from Korea and so we searched the website at last! By this time we had 6 children, our 5 th daughter having Down Syndrome. It all made sense then when we were drawn to this little girl in a crib looking up with eyes saying "Take me!" Oh my Lord, we are so happy and grateful we answered the call. This is when we went to Vladimir Russia to adopt Yulia who also had Down Syndrome. She has been sunshine in our lives for over 5 years now. A wonderful experience we will cherish & never forget! My older girls call her the live baby doll..we recently brought home our 13 year old son and he fits in like he was always here...our blog is torresfamilyadoption.blogspot.com

For questions or advice on adoption, please email us at rubenandjoann@msn.com

Adoption is an awesome calling...if you think you are being led to adopt a child with special needs, there are many places to go.. the place we found our children were Rainbowkids.com and Reecesrainbow.org theworldswaitingchildren.

We met Pastor Sasha & his family while in Vorzel Orphanage..We are so glad we met him and his team working at the orphanage. Through our adoption many people have gotten to know The Skripak family and their church. They are an awesome testimony and you will be happy you met them and became a part of their missions team. Please think about saving the life of an orphan through adoption or through Almaz Church orphan Outreach Ministry.

Getting Closer to the Goal!

Over $2000 raised so far for the van for the Skripak Family & their Ministry to the orphans!
The chip in is still on but no donations yet there..you can also send a check...email Pastor Sasha at above email Address for details...The first week at Vorzel will be starting soon and the church is in need of this van to transport people from the airport to Vorzel and other orphanages.

Thank You to all those who have made the sacrifice to help out the Almaz Church!

Summer Missions in Vorzel Ukraine

Ready to make a step in faith? Come to Ukraine and work with the Almaz Church Outreach Team this summer. Spaces are still available for June 2011. Also we can set your group up for next spring/summer. Contact Pastor Sasha at the above email. It will change your life....to help the children and care workers at the orphanage in Vorzel Ukraine.

Interview with Sasha Furmanchuk who began her service to the orphans and is still on this way


- Sasha why out of such a big variety of ministries or ways of spending your time did you choose to go to the children's home and serve orphans?

- My ministry to orphans started just recently - a bit more than half a year ago. But during this short period of time the Lord helped me realize much I have: my family and those near and dear. Why did I choose this very ministry to the orphans? Because for these children in their situation it is important to realize that God is the only One Who can change their lives. He can become their loving Father. This is why the aim of out team's trips was to bring them the Gospel and love of our Almighty God.

The testimony of Kareena, the administrator of building #5 of the orphanage in Vorzel
"In our orphanage we have several buildings. Some of them regularly get help from Christians and other donors. For some reason we never got any major help in our building. In 2008 representatives of Almaz church came in and offered to remodel the building and help the staff and orphans. We did not expect much because we do not trust promises.
In 2008 and 2009 Almaz church and their partners from USA have done so much work that we still cannot get over it. Most important for me was to see that people who love God not only talk about Him but show their love practically. These people are so faithful! And it proves to me that God is not leaving us alone in our needs and He is here with us caring for the lives of the orphans."

A testimony of a changed life
I am Dima. I am 16. When I was 6 my family abandoned me and did not want to care for me any longer. I did not know what I will do with my life. I know how to play chess and I win local competitions. Last summer believers from Almaz church came to our orphanage. They spent a lot of time with me and explained to me who I am, who God is and what future I will have with God. I have a vision now. I know my life will have sense.

Serve with Humility...Join our team in Ukraine to minister to orphans...

John the Baptist was born with a single purpose; "to make ready a people prepared to receive the Lord" (Luke 1:17). He was chosen for service before he was conceived and was "filled with the Holy Spirit even from birth" (Luke 1:15). John was so obedient to his calling that Jesus said, "Among those born of women, there is no one greater than John" (Luke 7:28). But John also knew his position within God's Kingdom...he had come to serve.

John 1:26-27
"'I baptize with water,' John replied, 'but among you stands one you do not know. He is the one who comes after me, the thongs of whose sandals I am not worthy to untie.'"

John had been given his assignment and was empowered by the Holy Spirit to accomplish his tasks. He was a servant preparing the way for the King. John was the greatest man ever born; and yet, in his humility, he felt unworthy to even untie the sandals of Christ.

True humility is not simply defined by a low self-image. It is the natural condition of our spirit when we begin to understand who we really are...and Who God really is! John felt unworthy because he had been given a glimpse of the unfathomable greatness and holiness of his Lord. As he stood in the presence of Perfection, there was only one response; "He must become greater, I must become less" (John 3:30).

When we know that Jesus is on the throne, "at God's right hand" (1 Peter 3:22), and that He will reign for all eternity, we begin to see our life in the proper perspective. He is infinitely perfect and worthy of infinite love, worship, and service. We live and breathe purely by His grace; we are but "a mist that appears for a little while and then vanishes" (James 4:14).

Yes, we are a "mist," but we are a mist with a purpose. We have been empowered by the Holy Spirit with the necessary tools to victoriously serve. Though our offering will always be imperfect, and far less than He deserves, it will be pleasing and acceptable if we give Him our ALL, give Him our best, and give from the innermost part of our heart.

Our God is truly above ALL, and He loves us so much that He gave His one and only Son so we could be with Him for all eternity. He calls us to believe in His gift and then serve Him for all the rest of our days. Let's continue to love Him with all our heart, give Him our absolute very best, and daily walk down the path He lays before us. Let's serve obediently, boldly, and victoriously...but let's also lift the Name of Jesus higher and higher and serve with humility.

Have a Christ Centered Day!

"True freedom is when you loose the need to impress people. If you are driven by applause, then you are bound by the feelings and emotions of other people."
Proverbs 27:2
Let another man praise thee, and not thine own mouth; a stranger, and not thine own lips.

Детская площадка 2010-Монитор

“Every child has a right to play”
Construction tour around the orphanages
in Ukraine 2010-2015

This video will show the beginning of a 5-year tour in 2010. This is a tour around Ukrainian orphanages with the goal to replace old Soviet playgrounds with new modern ones.

Action plan:

Step 1

Find a large investor who would be willing to donate $9.000 – 15.000 into a new playground. We want to become hands of this person so that they could work through us in Ukraine from a distance.

step 2.

Negotiate with the orphanage administration the demolishing of an old and nonfunctional playground (unaccesable for special needs children).

Step 3.

Clean the territory from the old equipment and from the trees that may put the lives of the children in danger.

Step 4.

Lay a special foundation that can live through cold Ukrainian winters. We want the foundation to be nice and even and surrounded by the fence so that kids could play withough nurses controlling them constantly.

Step 5.

Cover the foundation with a rubber layer that will protect children from injuries and will allow them to move independantly. It is especially important for special needs children.

Install playground equipment that will allow children to move around and work out. Special needs children have to have an easy access to these equippment.

This video will show you how the tour was started in summer of 2010. You will see the first 4 steps we have accomplished.

Plans for 2011:

1. To finish the construction of the playground #1 by covering the foundation with the rubber layr and installing the necessery equippment.

We have 50% (which is $3.500) of the neceserry funds to finish the playground #1. We still are looking for another $3.500.

2. To build a playground #2 in the orphanage building where 100% of the children have special needs.

We have 60% of the necessery funds and we still are looking for $4.800.

3. If we have any additional donations and funds we are ready and willing to build 2-3 playgrounds in 2011.

Please, pray for us:

- for the team;

- for all the necessery means for the ministry for the next 5 years so that we could give children a chance to get out of the building walls where they spend every day of their lives;

- for children to use our playgrounds and develop their skills and physical abilities;

- for children to be better developed and more attractive to potential adopting families in Ukraine.

Preaching about the great God in Western Ukraine, where thousands of religious people live who do not know a real relationship with the living God.

The Conference “Great is Our God” was held on 8-9 April 2011 in one of the greatest cities of Ukraine, Lviv, that is situated in the Western Ukraine and has a population of nearly 800,000 people. It is about 70 km. away from the Polish border.


The main religious confessions in the region are the Greek Catholic Church, the Russian and Ukrainian Orthodox Church, Roman Catholic Church, and Judaism. That is why it is not surprising to see in the streets and inside the houses statues and pictures of Virgin Mary and other saints, who are considered by the majority of local Christians to be mediators between God and men, which is a reflection of their views of God…


The main speaker at the conference was Nikolay Skopych, Pastor of Almaz Church in Kyiv. Nikolay came here by way of invitation from the pastor of one of Lviv churches. For the previous 3 years, Nikolay has been undertaking such trips all over Ukraine in the framework of the Almaz Church’s Ministry for Dissemination of God’s Word. People of Lviv City and region could hear his sermons on marriage and family and wise usage of money on three occasions during those years and together with the speaker research the Scriptures that have so much to say about these vital topics.

This time, nearly 200 people from Lviv and nearby towns and villages came to hear about our great God and His attributes.

Nikolay taught a lot about the sad situation with knowing God. When dwelling on it, the main stress was made on the thought that “without knowing the grand majestic God it is impossible to burn with love for Him, impossible to truly follow His commandments or carry out fruitful ministry.”

We also studies what the Bible says about importance of getting to know God, learned about the ways to do it and obstacles to be overcome. And, of course, the lion’s share of time was devoted to the study of God’s nature and His attributes. In other words, for a day and a half we searched the Scripture to see what He is like, out Great God.

Closer to the end of the conference we had questions and answer time.

And, the closing accord of the conference was made in prayer and worship time.

After the night on a train, on the next morning Nikolay preached at his church in Kyiv….

Report on the Conference

The Conference “Great is Our God” was held on 8-9 April 2011 in one of the greatest cities of Ukraine, Lviv, that is situated in the Western Ukraine and has a population of nearly 800,000 people. It is about 70 km. away from the Polish border.

The main religious confessions in the region are the Greek Catholic Church, the Russian and Ukrainian Orthodox Church, Roman Catholic Church, and Judaism. That is why it is not surprising to see in the streets and inside the houses statues and pictures of Virgin Mary and other saints, who are considered by the majority of local Christians to be mediators between God and men, which is a reflection of their views of God…

The main speaker at the conference was Nikolay Skopych, Pastor of Almaz Church in Kyiv. Nikolay came here by way of invitation from the pastor of one of Lviv churches. For the previous 3 years, Nikolay has been undertaking such trips all over Ukraine in the framework of the Almaz Church’s Ministry for Dissemination of God’s Word. People of Lviv City and region could hear his sermons on marriage and family and wise usage of money on three occasions during those years and together with the speaker research the Scriptures that have so much to say about these vital topics.

This time, nearly 200 people from Lviv and nearby towns and villages came to hear about our great God and His attributes.

Nikolay taught a lot about the sad situation with knowing God. When dwelling on it, the main stress was made on the thought that “without knowing the grand majestic God it is impossible to burn with love for Him, impossible to truly follow His commandments or carry out fruitful ministry.

We also studied what the Bible says about importance of getting to know God, learned about the ways to do it and obstacles to be overcome. And, of course, the lion’s share of time was devoted to the study of God’s nature and His attributes. In other words, for a day and a half we searched the Scripture to see what He is like, out Great God.

Closer to the end of the conference we had questions and answer time.

And, the closing accord of the conference was made in prayer and worship time.

After the night on a train, on the next morning Nikolay preached at his church in Kyiv….

This is something wonderful that happened last year...

An amazing testimony of the administration of the orphanage.
Today we had a unique conversation with the representative of the orphanage administration in Vorzel. This person said that the last year was very important for the orphanage and there was certain struggle going on. They said that the government was going to shut down the orphanage because the old facilities were dangerous for children and personnel. But in reality the reason is somewhat different. The land in Vorzel is very expensive. Today the land of the orphanage costs $5-7 mln. There are people in the government who really want to get this land and the bad state of the facilities was just an excuse to shut down the orphanage. It this case 200 people would lose their job and more that 100 orphans would be sent to other remote orphanages where facilities are even worse.

The representative of the orphanage administration informed that in the beginning of 2010 a governmental committee checked the orphanage and they saw all the transformations including new doors, windows, new flooring and the most important the remodeling of the heating system because it was mostly dangerous. So they are losing reasons to shut down the orphanage.

The representative of the orphanage was so grateful and exited about the construction and remodeling in 2008, 2009 and 2010. They believe that because of this remodeling the orphanage has a future.

Today began our church men's weekend. Attended by more than 30 men. Please pray for all of us, that God did what He thought of us to be attentive to his word!

Pause music at below to listen to videos...

"Here I am to Worship" - Russian Youth Choir

Beautiful!

Russian Christian Music

Russian Christian Song - "Свят,Свят, Свят Господь ++ "

Russian Gospel Music with English Subtitles

Please Help Almaz Orphan Outreach Project....

We are trying to raise enough to pay for the van necessary for the missionaries in Ukraine.
If you are friends of Almaz outreach, please add a "chip in" on your blog or website and end the event May 31 2011. We are asking people to skip a coffee or a latte for a day or a week and donate for this need of our brothers and sisters in Christ. You may offer what ever amount you'd like. Please keep in mind pay pal does charge a fee for their processing terminal, even though it is minimal. We thank you in advance for all those who will help in this ministry. Summer missions trips will be starting in May & June so we need to get this van ready for the Skripak family and for the missionaries who will be coming in to Ukraine soon. If you can donate a large sum and would like a tax deductible receipt, then email Pastor Sasha for details on how you can do this.

These missionaries will be heading to Vorzel Ukraine where they will minister to the children and replace broken and old plumbing & electric. They will repair walls and rooms and hopefully finish off the playgrounds for the children. Playing is something we take for granted in America...these children in the orphanages also need to play to stimulate them and to have the staff be able to interact and for therapeutic reasons.

If you have ever considered going on a missions trip but don't know anyone or don't the first thing about getting involved..here's your chance.. Email Pastor Sasha at the address above to join a team already in progress. Can be 1 person, can be a few...places are filling up. You can add a couple of extra days to your trip to do some sight seeing as well in beautiful Ukraine. Be prepared for an awesome life changing experience though....you will be happy you did. If your life seems empty of unfulfilled or you don't understand what life is about or why God put you on this earth, you will probably find some answers to many question you have had.

Join the Skripak family this summer as they follow through on a mission from God to love, help and care for orphans.

PSALMS
17 You hear, O LORD, the desire of the afflicted; you encourage them, and
you listen to their cry,

18 defending the fatherless and the oppressed, in order that man, who is
of the earth, may terrify no more.

27:10 Though my father and mother forsake me, the LORD will receive me.

68:5 A father to the fatherless, a defender of widows, is God in his holy
dwelling.

82:3 Defend the cause of the weak and fatherless; maintain the rights of
the poor and oppressed.

“Give justice to the weak and the fatherless; maintain the right of the afflicted and the destitute. Rescue the weak and the needy; deliver them from the hand of the wicked. ” – Psalm 82:3-4

Dear Friends!

We would like to share our story with you.

Many of you know what our life situation is – beside us, our parents, sister, children, and grandfather all live together in a three-room apartment, all in all 9 persons and 4 generations. 

Of course, lots of various things happen. Life in such conditions is sometimes especially complicated.

We know that it is God, who is allowing this situation, even though it seems quite desperate. But He wants something for us in this situation. He wants us to exercise humility, learn, be the light for our non-Christian parents and grandfather, and influence the nephews in some way. And saying the truth, we are not always faithful.

Two summers in a row God gave us opportunities to apartment sit for our friends and, thus, live separately. They left for the whole summer to America and we used their apartment. But this summer, they are not going. We knew about it and were perfectly prepared to spend the coming summer at our own Kyiv apartment.

Some two weeks ago we prayed about out living situation at out small group meeting. We prayed for us, that God give us strength, wisdom, and especially support, so He, if He will it, let us live somewhere separately for at least a little.

I had little faith that this would bring any result. Nothing indicated that we will ever be able to live alone. We cannot afford renting an apartment.

Quite unexpectedly another family suggested that we stay this summer at their house . They too are going to America and need somebody to apartment and dog sit for them. In fact, they proposed it to some other couple, but they decline and recommended us. These people know us very well and a very long time, since we came to the Lord. We used to go to the same church at some point. But, we never were especially close. And, on the last Friday we learnt that they are ready to trust their house near Kyiv to us.

This was a miracle!

I remember what we learnt about Abraham. He was afraid. At some moment of his life he showed lack of trust in God. But, God did what He planned. God is always faithful.

We are not perfect in the life conditions, where God put us, we often lose our battles, we often feel weak and whine. But God is our hope. Our hearts are with Him.

Another scripture I have been thinking about:
Behold, happy is the man whom God corrects: therefore despise not thou the chastening of the Almighty: For he makes sore, and binds up: he wounds, and his hands make whole. (Job 5:17,18)

God allowed us to live in difficult conditions for these three years. And this seems to be a desperate situation. But, He never leaves us alone in this situation. He supports us, gives us respite, time when we could be hospitable to people. The same has happened again. His hands make whole, very tenderly and with great love.

This is a miracle for us!  And, we want to share it with you :)

Thank you to all, who prayed for us or somehow felt for us.

Hello,

My name is Alexey Volkov. I focus on developing and improving Almaz church worship services. Starting from January 2011, I am also a full-time minister at Almaz church.

Among other things, my responsibilities include taking care of the administrative issues dealing with Sunday services, coordinating different ministries related to church services,
developing vision and strategy for improving worship services together with our pastors, and implementing the set goals.

With God's help, over a couple of months' period we have accomplished the following things:

- growth in children's ministry: in the upcoming weeks we will have group #4, even though a month ago there were only two groups;

- growth in hospitality ministry: we started a better feedback system for new people through questionnaires, calls, emails and personal meetings with the pastors.

Besides, we now have worship service translation into English through headsets.

Pastor Sasha visits with Ruslan while is USA

IMG_0494

IMG_0964

IMG_0967

IMG_0966

IMG_0965

конференция "Обними-не отпускай"

WE CAN SEE MORE THAN WE CAN EVEN IMAGINE.

In 2008 my wife and I visited an orphanage in Vorzel for the first time. There were 10—15 special needs children who impressed us especially. I remember how desperate I was to realize that no one needed those children. I suffered thinking that they had no future and their lives will end in the institution. We could only visit those kids, involve our local church into ministering to them, to share with some Ameicans our grief and bring them to that orphange to visit.

For the last three years I have been witnessing miracles though they are still hard to comprehend. Most of those kids were adopted into families. Today they have parents and become socially adjusted. It is an honor for me to even touch the lives of these children and to the work of God He is doing in them and for them.

I want to introduce three of those kids to you.

Igor.

A boy who you always want to visit because he is so friendly and outgoing! Despite his desease he is brilliant and has great memory! Today he is adopted into a wonderful American family.

Ruslan

Nadya, Sasha and Dima.

We met these kids in 2009. All 3 of them lived in Vorzel's orphanage. Nadya was 6, Sasha was 3 and Dima was 1. They knew very well they were the only family for each other. It was so sad to know that Nadya was moved to a boarding-school. The boys were so upset and depressed not to have their older sister around. An incredible miracle happed. One family from Almaz church in Ukraine fell in love with these kids during one of the ministry projects. They were praying in secret for two years about adopting them. Our Lord Jesus promiced to give to those who ask Him.

Dear Friends!

We long to let you know that the miracles God does in lives of many people become evident in our family in Ukraine!

It is hard to put into words what we experienced when the doctor said that Liza’s nose was broken. We heard it from a well-qualified doctor and the X-ray proved the diagnosis.

We tried to stay calm and confident in the Lord. We trusted Him in everything we had to face. It was so encouraging when we heard from all of you!!! We were so moved that so many people prayed right away about our daughter!

We were broken before God and got ready for the surgery. We got to a hospital early in the morning and we knew it was all in God’s hands. We had to stay in line for 2.5 hours to see the doctor. It is an average situation in Ukraine. We had prayed and asked God to bless us with a good doctor. An we did met a professional. He looked at the X-ray and he commented angrily that we were not attentive to let it happen. Then he had several tests and with a great surprise he said the nose was not broken just hit. We asked him to test Liza again to make sure he was absolutely right. He said that in his opinion there was no fracture. It is hard to tell how happy we were to hear that. But from the other hand we got suspicious. Why would it be so?

The next day we went to the institute of otolaryngology to hear the third side’s opinion. We wanted to make sure the nose was ok and did not need a surgery. The professor there proved that the nose was hurt but not broken and Liza did not need the surgery!

What a relief!

So today we can confidently say that God healed our daughter! It is unbelievable but true.

Today instead of sitting in the hospital and suffering from pain after surgery we are able to keep on serving the Lord and His church.

Please, share our joy with us! Tell us that our Lord is the Lord of healing and He is merciful to the families who labor for Him.

Today we are in awe but joyful!

Skripaks

Sasha
Olya
Liza
Herman
Martha
Tereza

Dear Friends!

On behalf of Almaz church and also from us personally we want to thank you for taking part in the ministry to orphans in Ukraine! Knowing how much you are willing to support us our family moved into Vorzel for 2 month to serve the orphans here!
Sasha Skrypak, the pastor of Almaz church and the family of Olya, Liza, Herman and Martha.
Vorzel, 2010. What is new?
Week #1
We all were looking forward to start working in the orphanage in Vorzel this summer! Today there are about 100 kids. How does is happen that these children are in the orphanage and not home with their families? Some parents abandoned their children right after their birth, others were trying to take care of them and gave up, some were deprived of parental rights. Our mission is to take care of children and of the care takers in the orphanage. Most donors want to help kids but often forget about people who live and work with these children (half of them are disabled) day by day and get them ready for their difficult life.
So, we are we doing in Vorzel this summer?

We break the old.
We broke down a 50-years old restroom in building 5. More than 60 kids and care taker were using it for years. Children have no idea about using a comfortable toilet and having a shower or a warm foamy bath. We will not go into the details explaining the conditions for the nurses who work there day and night. Financial support of Ada Bible church, Michigan, USA made this construction possible.




We started the reconstruction of the early intervention therapy room or as we call it the "sensory" room (room for developing sensory skills). Here they have classes for children with Cerebral Palsy, for mentally and physically retarded kids and for kids who need rehabilitation after serious surgeries. The physical and mental development depends very much on the conditions of the classroom and learning tools. The better kids are developed the more chances they have to be adopted. Also they will have a better quality life in the institutions where they are sent when they turn 6. Unfortunately life in these institutions greatly differs from life in the orphanage for little kids where the atmosphere is nicer and more friendly. Financial support of Ada Bible church, Michigan, USA made this construction possible.


We also started remodeling of another room where 20 kids live. They sleep, eat, play and learn in one room. These children get sick more often than others because of the old wall papers that spread around the old infection. We could not leave it the way it was! Faithful members of Almaz church support this project financially.

This ruins will be replaces with new remodeling and construction that will bring lots of joy to children, nurses, doctors and care takers. Some of them work at this orphanage for more than 50 years.
We are building a play ground.
If you have ever been to the post Soviet territory you khow how this terrible metal constructions called "playgrounds" look like. It is scary even to think about children playing on this playground, They are in absolute decline. Children are not able to spend time outside where they can play, learn and get exercise. It breaks your heart when you see kids wondering around outside having nothing to do and losing their opportunities.
For the first time our ministry got a chance to build a playing ground for the orphans!
We are planning to build a playground of 135 square meters covered with a rubber layers. We want to have there a track, sandboxes, swings, a pool and place for rest for the care takers and children.
This is how children spend time outside today.



This is the beginning of the reconstruction of the old playground.





We spend time with children and share our love with them.
For the first week our multinational team was able to reach out with love and care to more than 30 kids. We were able to take them out, help stimulate their intellectual and physical potential and just share our love and joy! It is not much but how grateful those kids were!





How you can participate in the mission ministry to orphans in Vorzel today.
Tell everyone who is interested in adoption.
Tell everyone you know that Kati needs a family.

This girl is 13 months old. Her mom gave her away because Kati was born hydrocephalic and had a myelocele. Also she has dislocation of her thighs joints. She was operated on and had certain medical treatment. Kati is recovering right now. It is amazing but her brain works well and she is doing very well intellectually.
Please, support the ministry in your prayers.
Please, pray for the physical, emotional and spiritual state of people who have been serving in Vorzel for 3 weeks now. They still have 5 more weeks of a hard labor ahead.
Pray for us to have wisdom how to share the Good News with the personnel. This year as never before they ask so many questions and want to know more about our life and our faith. It is a unique opportunity to share Christ with them!
Pray for the patience and wisdom in working with children. The children are special and so different. Most of them have special needs and have lack of discipline.
Help finish construction of the playground in Building 5
Thanks to the CBN ministry in America and in Ukraine and to the Christ Community Church, in New Smyrna Beach in the USA we got the funds that made it possible to start building a new playground, build the foundation and a fence. We need to continue working on this playground.
We are planning to purchase:
135 square meters of rubber covering (1 square meter is $45). This rubber cover will allow the disabled kids to move around independently. We will be laying the covering step by step so even if you decide to help with 1 meter it would be a great investment.


A swing set ($500).

A swing set ($600).

A swing set ($300).

A slide ($500)

A sandbox ($300).

2 benches for the caretakers ($300 X 2 =$600).

A swimming pool ($120)


If you consider helping the ministry financially you can send the donations to:
Account Name: Friends of Ukraine
Bank: Fifth Third Bank
Location: Grand Rapids, Michigan
Routing Number: 072400052
Account Number: 7165237749

Checks sent to office.



Phone 616-954-2000
Donate quickly with PayPal : www.almazgo.com/donate/