For most of our 19 years in missions, we have stayed in the country we were serving without needing to leave. However, two years ago the laws in Russia changed. Due to this change, all foreigners can be in the Russia 90 out of 180 days. This changed everything!
Many missionaries eventually left the country to other regions where this would not affect them. There was one way a person could stay in the country but it was difficult and few tried for the new temporary residency permits.
December Jill and I went through all the hoops and completed everything required. What a process it was. I do not think I will do it again, but this July, we received those new permits. Yes, we can now stay in the country for up to three years!September 2nd, after our sons wedding, we return to our apartment in Moscow to resume ministry. For those of you who were praying with us, thanks. We know our life and season of ministry is in God’s hands and trust in that fact. Now we can work without needing to leave every 90 days.
SOMETHING NEW:
Jill and I will be serving as the interim pastors of the A/G International Christian Assembly (ICA) once we return until new leaderships found. ICA has close to 50 nations represented for an average Sunday service. Our first scheduled Sunday in the pulpit is September 5. We will still travel across Russia teaching in the regional schools, but whenever we are in Moscow, we will minister at ICA. Keep this church in your prayers for a new leader and for Jill and me as we serve them.
In July we had the honor to be with my brother, Tom for his installation service at the United Methodist church in Plains, Montana. We were able to share about our mission. After service we visited at their home and this little baby deer came out of the woods along with his mother. We enjoy watching them for close to 20 minutes. Isn't the beauty of God's creation amazing? 
P.S. All the pictures are from the states while we waited for the word on our new visas.
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