There seemed to be many different opinions about us starting a new work in Estonia, but in the end, one must do the best with what his heart understands. After a month here we are still sure we did the right thing, although the challenge is pretty big for us.

It is comforting that we definitely see God's hand actively supporting us as we walk in the fear of the Lord. Just a few days before departure from the States, Bishop Boris called to say that the church in Jarvakandi was backing out on us. One of the reasons is that they began to realize that David, though an American, would only be able to speak to them in Russian. Plans were quickly changed and we came straight to Narva, just across the border from Russia. One advantage is that here only a minimal knowledge of the Estonian language is required; to shop, read road signs, etc. For the first week we stayed in the home of Boris' oldest son, Vadim, where we always have stayed while in Estonia. Vadim helped us search the internet to find an apartment to rent. The biggest they make are 3 bedroom apartments, but most of them are being bought up by businesses so we had to settle for a 2 bedroom. We signed for 3 months with the hope that God will show us a house. The church receives humanitarian aid from Germany and was able to supply us with mattresses, sheets and blankets. Members of the church passed on their old dishes, kitchen table and chairs, etc, making life quite bearable.

The apartment "just happened" to be across the street from the Immigration Service, where we must obtain a residence permit. One of the elders of the church "just happened" to know an official there. She was willing to walk me through the process personally. She was very professional and ready to help, so much unlike our ordeal in Russia. To add to God's blessings, we received notice only 2 days after finishing the paperwork that we were allowed to live and work in Estonia for 2 years.
One of the big questions to be answered was our status and duties while working with this church. The original plan had been to be the responsible elder for the Jarvakandi church, which had about as many cons as pros. I believe God Himself shut that door for our good. After arriving in Narva, Bishop Boris is now saying that they will use me as a traveling minister, much like I ministered in Russia. The mother church in Narva will set up a schedule of sorts, according to the need of each daughter church to be visited. The setup has not been set into motion yet, so I will have to write later to comment on this.

There was one moment of strain that occurred 2 weeks after arriving. The committee of elders called me to the church for a special meeting. I guessed right away what it was about: "my wife was making others stumble by not wearing a headscarf during services." They asked me to be open about my understanding of Scripture on this topic and so I was, though striving hard to come across very meek and non-abrasive. As I talked to them, I began to see that our differences came from having two totally different methods of interpreting the Bible. They see it black and white and so believe that the angels will get confused about who is who in the church. I look for the principle and concentrate on character that pleases God. Well, in the end, they said, "If your wife is so obedient, let her put it on." It was hard to swallow, but for now Nina is willing to wear a scarf in services just to give the Truth a chance to be voiced. Bishop Boris was out of town when this happened, so I am wondering what his position is on this. I wonder how Jesus felt when He emptied Himself and took on the form of a servant??? What is the difference between compromise and godly condescension?
If you would like to pray specifically for us, here is a list:

1. That God will intervene concerning Nina's health.
2. That we will be used by God to shake the strongholds of religion by spiritual weapons.
3. That God would make our family to be an example for others that are seeking to walk with God.
4. That God would confirm His Word by signs and wonders, giving us boldness to preach the Gospel.

Thank all of you for being so patient and understanding with us while we searched for God's will. Keep us in your prayers as we do all of you. God bless,