June, 2003

“A man may make designs for his way, but the Lord is the guide of his steps.”– Solomon was writing.

Since August last year we were dreaming and praying to start the ministry in two new cities this year. But God’s plans were a bit different.

8 people were invited after the interview to the assessment conference that took place in the country of Kiev June 18-25. These were hard, tense but at the same time blessed days for everybody – for candidates and regional coordinators that also came to this conference to watch, set up seminars, participate in everyday discussions and in making decisions concerning every candidate.

The conference consisted of two parts: assessment and training. During first three days we were trying to create situations for candidates to show their character – all best and worst traits of it. We had many games, tests and sessions. Coordinators were watching how they all could work in a team, who would reveal him as a leader; in what situations they will be ready to humble themselves. At the end of the first part, on June 21 the decision was made and 4 people were proposed to join IP staff and two – to become volunteers for one year with a future possibility to become staff.

The second part was not so hard and tense. New staff that will actually be interns for one year were getting basic information about the ministry that every staff member should know.

As a result of this conference we’ve got a team that will go to share Christ with influencers of Odessa. And we added people to existing teams in Zaporozhie, Kharkov and Kherson. So God answered our prayers in His way. He didn’t give us two new cities but only one and we’re thankful to Him. He’s wiser and knows better what we need.

“For my thoughts are not your thoughts, or your ways my ways, says the Lord.” Isaiah 55:8