AZ2LV... AZHILLS Youth Missions Trip to Latvia

A Cultural Experience

2008-07-27T13:42:00.000-07:00

I need to spend a few moments and share with you all what an amazing cultural experience the wedding was. The service in the church was not unlike a wedding service might be in any small rural community in America. The only significant difference might have been the Latvian tradition of flowers. Flowers are an essential part of Latvian culture. There are flowers everywhere. You can buy them on almost every street corner see them growing naturally along the side of the roads as well as in window boxes on the tiny balconies of the ubiquitous soviet built high rise apartment buildings. Elina once told me that flowers were the Latvians way of maintaining a sense of hope and individualism during the communist occupation. Small bright spots in a gray existence. At the end of the ceremony each of the guests lines up and comes to the front and gives the bride and groom flowers and some words of encouragement, I of course had no flowers with me but I got in line anyway… After the ceremony in the church, the wedding was just beginning. The procession then moved on to the traditional part of the wedding.

En route to the traditional part of this wedding the motorcade stopped at 5 different bridges. At each of these bridges Ricky and Lasma got out of the car and Ricky carried her across the bridge. Each bridge had a different meaning. There were seven total and two of them were done after the traditional part of the ceremony.

The traditional portion takes place in a forested setting. There are three musicians/wedding officials that explain each portion of the process which has four aspects one for each of the “elements” of water, earth, air and fire.

The first element is water. As we waited for the bride and groom to arrive, the musicians played traditional Latvian music. Soon Ricky and Lasma arrived via horse drawn cart. The water portion consisted of them cupping their hands and dipping them into a bowl of water and pouring it into each other’s hands then throwing it out over the guests. Monta was doing her best to translate for me but I am afraid that I will have to do some research to interpret the meaning. This aspect also included the couple each taking one end of a a string and twisting it until the string bunched up ( later at the reception, the twists were counted and it was explained that the number of children the couple would have was in some way related to the number of twists in the string)

From the water element we moved further into the forest until we reached a near by clearing. This was to be the location of the “Earth” component. One aspect involved Lasma being draped with a sheet as she sat and the guests all threw a handful of grain at her. The sheet is then carefully removed and the grain is collected from the sheet. Each grain is supposed to represent a blessing for the new couple. This as each portion was accompanied by music and singing.

The second portion of the “Earth” element was very special and it was at that moment that I was reassured that it was the right thing that I came to be at the wedding. In this part of the ceremony the official asked the couple to bring up four special people. Lasma’s parents were immediately asked to come forward and then Ricky asked his Mother who at the last minute decided to come, and then he looked at me and said “Dad” while he motioned with his head. So I proceeded to the center of the gathering and was given one end of a woven strip of cloth while Zoya ( Ricky’s Mom) took the other. Lasma’s parents did the same and we stood opposite each other forming a cross with the two pieces of cloth. We were then directed to walk in a circle as the music played and the people chanted. We then placed the strips of cloth at our feet and stepped back. Ricky then had to skip in a circle not touching the strips as the official chanted some sort of blessing that Monta later told me was to symbolize a “foundation or grounding “of the relationship. Ricky was then joined by Lasma’s Father and one of his buddies from work. The same process occurred and then we moved on to the next element, Air.

As we were walking away I gave thanks to God that Cindy had continued to look for a way for me to go to the wedding. Thinking about this 18 old…boy who now was a father and facing a huge step in his life potentially standing there basically alone with out anyone to stand with him made me glad that God is in control. A couple of days earlier I had listened as Ricky called his father and asked him if he would be at the wedding. I could see the disappointment in his eyes as he hung up. He has only had contact with his father in the last couple of years after God prompted Ricky ti seek him out and forgive him for abandoning him as a boy. This was a huge step that opened relationship for Ricky and his father but it obviously has not resulted in his father reclaiming that role in Ricky’s life.
In the next portion we walked again for about 10 minutes deeper into the forest where we came to a path that led to a giant swing that was between two trees. The swing’s platform was large enough to accommodate both the bride and groom. Some more music…and singing and we were on to the “Fire” potion. Fortunately the “Fire” element was located right next to the swing. By this time no one was up for another long walk. Keep in mind that the time is now about 6:30 PM. The ceremony at the church started at about Noon.

The fire ring was about 10 feet in diameter and had fern branches arranged radiating from the center for decoration. Ricky was directed to build a fire and once he was successful the men al gathered in a circle and danced around the circle chanting and “high five-ing” while shouting “Hey!” by this time Monta and I were both too tired to try and glean any understanding from the ceremony but it was still fascinating. The girls did something similar after that with Lasma and then everyone had some perogies and sweet bread as a snack. This was washed down by some of the purple Latvian juice which I think comes from some extract from Birch bark.

Then, it was time for a long hike back to the cars and a 45 minute drive back to the reception hall which was located out in the country closer to Limbazi. On the drive to the reception there were the final two bridges to stop at. For these Ricky simply walked along beside his new bride. You could see the happy couple was growing tired like the rest of everyone. They were both very glad to see that I had stashed an energy drink in the car in anticipation that I would probably need a boost in order to make it through the entire event. I had to sacrifice and give my last Red Bull to Ricky.

As we arrived at the reception hall the sky was going twilight. It was probably around 10:00 PM. Before we could enter Ricky had to pass a test. Lasma’s father produced what to me looked like a tenor sax case filled with wood and tools. Monta translated as he told Ricky that in order to be part of the family he would need to show that he could build a “house” for Lasma. As Ricky dumped out the pieces of wood his exhaustion was beginning to show. The wood pieces eventually fit together to reveal a quaint bird house and the tired couple worked together to hold and nail the pieces until the bird house took shape. Success!

The next activity was the cutting of a large heart out of a large piece of cloth that was held at the corners by Jack,. Roma, Mairis and Elnars. The couple each had a scisors and started down at the bottom point of the heart that was sewn on out of decorative fabric. They each made their way cutting along the inside of the heart and met at the point in the crux of the top portion of the heart shape. The couple then stepped through the opening they had just cut to the cheers of the crowd. From there they moved to the doorway to the reception hall where an apple hung by a string. Lasma and Ricky were instructed to simultaneously take a bite out of the apple before they could enter and start the festivities.

The tables were arranged around the outside of the room with a 5 piece band at the front of the room. Traditional Latvian food including carbonade and several different salads. Shortly after dinner the small green bottles of Estonian “Bodca” (Vodca) were broken out and distributed to the tables. Fortunately there was a non-alcoholic sparkling cider option as well. The band played such classics as “Villie Nelson’s…On Zee Rhoud Again” and “You Ain Nothing Bud Zee_ound Doug” and everyone danced spinning around the room. The band played until 3:30 AM and then the DJ started playing music until 7:30 AM.

There is a Latvian tradition of the guests “singing” the couple a lullaby in their room as they retire and then waking the newlyweds in the morning with song. Sounds crazy I know but that is how it is done. This is facilitated by the fact that the reception hall has not only a bedroom for the bride and groom but also two bunkhouse style rooms with many beds for the guests as well. So as people tire throughout the evening they simply go upstairs and have a nap. I have to say it is a bit odd and I managed to find a place to rest that was away from the two bunk rooms where the rest of everyone was sleeping. There was some silence from about 7:30 to 9:00 AM and then people started to wake up and soon they were gathering upstairs, accordion blaring to wake the happy couple.

Once they had awoken everyone gathered for breakfast and cake. It was at this portion that I needed to leave. Scott had asked me to have the car back in Riga by Noon so that wee could be on our way to the camp in Kasdonga where Elina and the resrt of the JV staff was working. The Red Mountain group was arriving at camp that afternoon and we needed to transport them from the bus stations out to the camp. It was tremendously difficult to say good bye to Ricky and Lasma not knowing when I would see them again but so very thankful that I had been able to share and support them in this huge step in their lives.

I returned to Riga and I knew I had cut it short because Runzo was waiting (actually ready!) with all the luggage for their family to spend the week at camp. We drove from Riga through the other half of Latvia that I had never been through. After we arrived and got the team from the busses out to the camp we only had a half hour before the students started to arrive. It was so amazing to be back in that environment knowing just how much God would be working in the lives of both campers and team members.

I stayed up late with Elina ans some of the other interns watching DVD episodes of Prison Break, not wanting to loose any time to sleep. It was so hard to say good bye to Elina again and not know when we would see her. We huged and cried for a few minutes and then Scott and I drove the two hours back to the Riga Airport. We left at 3:00AM and arrived at the nearly vacant airport at 5:05 AM.

I had left Ricky and Lasma 20 hour earlier. I gave my cell phone that Elina had lent me to Scott and checked in at the counter. I made my way through security and down to the gate. Two of the Latvian interns had told me of two other Americans that they knew were traveling on my flight. It was not to hard to spot them so I asked the two college aged girls if they were headed to the states and passed on the greetings the interns had asked me to give them. I was too tired to hold much of a conversation so I decided to go back and see if any of the shops or news stands in the gate portion of the airport had opened yet.

As I made my way back to the only open news stand back by security. I thought of the last time I made the trip to latvia alone back in January 06. As I passed the large glass wall that allows you to see the people who were back in the airport lobby, I was reminded of the powerfull image God blessed me with that day.(you can read about it by clicking the January 06 link or here ) After buying all the chocolate my leftover Lats would afford I headded back toward the gate. Looking up I was stunned to findout that God had done it once more. As I looked up I saw two figures dressed in Red on the other side of glass hallway in the Lobby. Ricky and Lasma were there in their reception clothes leanig against the rail.

I had no Idea they would be there. I would have never seen them if I had stayed at the gate, but their they were, hugging each other looking longingly across the hallway and thier faces lept alive when our eyes meet accross the glass walled space that sepparated us. I was so shocked and felt so paralysed simply mouthing "I love you" as they waved and blew kisses to me. Ricky was motioning me towards the security check line back to my right. I moved the 100 feet back to the security area unsure what Ricky had in mind. I could see him speaking to the oficial that checks the boarding passes and allows people into the security line. After some classic "Ricky haggling" he convinced the official to take the large envelope he was holding to the girl at the scanner. She quickly scanned the envelope and motioned for me to come get it. I had been standing about 20 feet back from the metal detector not wanting to unsettle the security agents by walking up the wrong way while Ricky was distracting thier attention. She handed the evelope to me and I thanked her repeatedly. I ran back to the glass wall and continued to smile and wave at the newlyweds who had gone to great extents to make it all the way to Riga after an exhausting marathon wedding.

Next thing I know even more haggling...Ricky is interupting the guy talking on his cell phone standing next to him. As Ricky is pleading with this guy and pointing at me I find myself being handed a cell by the guy next to me. Apparently he had been speaking with the guy Ricky was bugging and now I was able to speak to Ricky one last time. I told Ricky he was crazy and that I loved him so much. I warned him that he better take great care of my Lasma and then I had to go. I was worried that I had missed my plane. One last "I love you" and I thanked the guy who lent me his phone. When I got to the gate I opened the envelope and in it were two full 8X10 photos that had been taken the day before and printed out on heavy photo paper, all in the 20 hours since I had left them.

As I looked at the photos I broke down into tears. I couldn't stop as I though about how much God had just blessed me and how uncertain the future was for this young family. Of course the one and a half hours of sleep in the previous 40 hours was not helping my emotional state. I simply stared at the photo of me praying for them as we entered the church and begged God with all my heart to protect these precious kids.

After boarding the plane I passed out before we even taxied to the runway...

Return to Latvia Ricky and Lasma to be Married!

2008-07-17T22:25:00.000-07:00

On very short notice after Cindy had searched for months online to find some way for us to be able to get to the wedding we had become resolved to the fact that it just was not an option. Brett convinced Cindy to look one last time and there it was one fare that we could use mostly miles to buy and have it wind up being about a third of the $1700 that the ticket price. Mind you, this was three days before departing to Latvia. Things kicked into high gear quickly and here I am back in Latvia again. Praise God! My original plan was to join Elina out at English camp for the first couple days and then go to Limbazi for the wedding. Turns out God had other plans. Scott Runzo (one of our full time missionaries in Latvia) woke up the morning that I was to arrive with an inflamed achilles tendon( PRAY FOR SCOTT!). The final group from Red Mountain Community Church in Mesa the states was to arrive the following day and Scott was in no shape to take them around Riga as part of their orientation.

Elina and I now were on orientation duty so we have enjoyed our last two days getting to know the group and showing them al little of Riga's rich culture and history. As we were leaving them yesterday I was jealous of the fact that they were about to head out to spend the next week at English camp where so manny lives have been changed. I couldn't help but wonder if some of them would be blessed with the kind of connection to the kids they will minister to that we have had. I am praying that God will impact them in just as powerful a way. Here a a few photos.

Elina, Fletch and Scott...Waiting fro Red Mtn

Riga is so Beautiful

You can take the Girl out of America...But you cant take the American out of the girl!

Red Mtn. Group

Chili Pica!

Today I head for Limbazi. Ricky has been in Estonia working for a while, he just got back last night. I will meet up with him and tomorrow is the start of the TWO DAY wedding. This will be a tremendous cultural experience! I can't wait to see the kids. Please be praying that God blesses this huge step in their lives!

Meet Elina

2008-07-07T16:28:00.000-07:00

For the last two years Elina has been living with the Aylwards in Peoria AZ and attending Southwestern College of the Bible. This May was her graduation and she then returned to Latvia. Elina completed her degree in Marriage and Family Studies graduating Suma Cum Laudi. Her goal is to establish a Christian family counseling ministry in Latvia in the long term. Her short term goals include returning to the states to complete a Masters degree in Counseling. Currently she is back in Latvia working with this years English Camps.

On this recent trip to Latvia I was able spend some time with Elina and help with orientation for a great group from the states, Red Mountain Community. She dove head first into ministry as soon as she returned to Latvia. After the camps this summer she will be applying at Mathew's Baptist Church in Riga to start a work in their Family ministry.

We also recieved some great news a few days affter I returned home. The Runzos have a Vonage phone that allows calls to the states for a flat rate and Elina called with news that she had been accepted to Denver Seminary. We are all praying that God will work out the details to allow her to attend either this Fall or in the Spring. Please be praying for this as well as her dream of starting a Christian Family Ministry in Latvia.

Saying good bye again as I was leaving Latvia this time was a very difficult experience. Since I had to be at the airport at 5:30 AM and leave Kosdonga at 3:00 we simply stayed up all night and talked and hung out with some of the JV interns. It was another tearful goodbye and I was worried about her being all alone and the American interns will be leaving soon. They are the ones she has spent most of her time with since returning home and it will be hard when they leave. But God is in control and lets face it. It takes about 3 minutes after people meet Elina for them to fall in love with her, so I know that HE will provide a network of people to surround and support her in the future and if it is His will then she will return soon to attend Denver.

Please pray for Elina and her dream of starting a Christian Family Ministry

What God is doing in Monta's life...

2008-01-23T19:08:00.000-08:00

As we were deeply missing Latvia this summer, I emailed Monta and asked her if she would mind typing up some of her thoughts about how her life was different now a year later after accepting Christ. These were her thoughts.

“I used to think that I was never good enough to cut it”

I listen to last year’s theme song for our camp “Think Again” - “What I was made for” and it brings so many memories back and a huge smile on my face. Suddenly everyone’s here again. We all dance and sing. We play games and learn. We do it all with so much joy and that’s when we understand – we can cut it! And you know why? Because we’re not alone!

Last year around this time I was just an average girl who was enjoying her summer holiday, working and preparing to go to camp for the first time in her life. To the camp that changed my life. It wasn’t the first time I heard about God, of course, but it was the first time when I felt Him being right there with me. Instead of spending one week in the camp I spent there 2 weeks. I learnt so much from all those amazing people who were so passionate about God that it assured me - I was ready. I will never forget July 12, 2006 when I became a Christian. I won’t have the chance to spend this wonderful day with my American friends this year… But I won’t be too sad about it, because I know I will meet them all one day again!

They were all so right saying that becoming a Christian doesn’t mean that all the problems will suddenly go away and never come back. Probably this year has been even harder that the last one. But it all has seemed so much easier, because I am not alone anymore. I always have someone who looks down on me and I know He smiles. Sometimes I believe that He frowns upon my actions, but even when I do mess up He still loves me and still keeps me near. Becoming a Christian changed me. It changed the way I think, changed the things I love and it changed the way I looked at the world. It also changed the way people looked at me, but still there are so many people who only think I have become a better person. And I know it’s only because of this endless love that surrounds me.

Not always I felt like I had it. There have been times when I felt like I don’t deserve it and there have been times when I had completely abandoned the idea of me becoming a better person or God loving me or being close to me. I must admit – there have been times when I’ve been so angry that I have yelled, screamed and cried. But over and over again I have learnt to give myself to Him and that is when the peace and calm come over. I wish I knew how to live like that every single day of my life. But I have learnt so much. Mostly I must thank Anete who leads our little Bible study group and has been so supportive. And than all the Americans who have been through so much with me. Especially Sara – I don’t know what I would do without her.

Looking back – I don’t think that I could compare who I was and who I am now. It would be impossible. I don’t think I have become somehow better – I’m different. And I try to live the way that God has planned for me. Things go wrong, I get His messages too late or just don’t understand them, I do bad things, I still hurt people some times and they still hurt me, but I have never felt better. I just have to be reminded from time to time that everything that is happening is only to make my life better. Sometimes I have tough lessons to learn and I do it and I know that when I do God looks at me and smiles. Could I ask for anything else? And it’s only the beginning of my journey!

The Last Day With The KIds

2007-03-25T12:51:00.000-07:00

These are some photos from Cindy and my trip to Limbazi last spring break. It was a really tremendous time for us to encourage the kids in some really tough choices that needed to be made. God showed us once again that He is faithful and in control.

Some Photos From Limbazi

2007-03-24T09:08:00.000-07:00

Back in LV

2007-03-24T04:16:00.000-07:00

WOW! It is really hard to believe that we are back in LImbazi for our Spring Break! It has been a wonderful trip and sooooo great to see everyone again. Cindy and I came by ourselves and the kids and Elina are staying at my folks house for the week. This time school is in session here and we have had the chance to attend lessons with Richards, Jack and Roma at the Russian School as well as speaking in Ieva's mother's English class about what high school is like in America at the Latvian School. We also had dinner at Ieva's home on Wednesday evening which was a wonderful time as well. Last night we went to youth night and got a chance to hang out with everyone. I am waiting for the battery to charge so I can add some photos so be paitent.

Along with the fun of suprising everyone and visiting the schools we we also got to experience the Latvian health care system first hand. My back decided to seize up on me and so between the urging of several well meaning Latvian women and Cindy too I was left with little choice but to visit the hospital in Riga. Praise God for muscle relaxants and a very nice doctor who happened to speak English. Unfortunately the X-Ray technicians did not so poor Rita had to accompany me into the X-ray room and translate. Rita and her boyfriend (Laos) were such a huge help we can't even begin to thank them a enough. My back is exponentially better now and improving each day so be praying for the ride home.

Well when the camera is charged I will add some photos.

Chau for Now!
Curtis

We Love you Limbazi...Share your thoughts.

2006-08-03T00:49:00.000-07:00

A moving video of the final moments in Limbazi as God cements the bonds of friendship between people from AZ and LV.

We're back home but missing our Latvia home...

2006-07-25T11:34:00.000-07:00

Hello everyone...
Just wanted to let you know that we all made it back safe and with no problems. It has been amazing for us to look back on the last 3 weeks and see what God has done. We are all missing Limbazi a lot! We love you all and are praying for you everyday that God would become more real to you and Jesus would become closer.

We are giving a report this Sunday to our church here in Arizona and we are going to talk a lot about the trip. We would like to create a poster of what camp has meant for all of you in Limbazi. If you could take some time and write a comment about what camp has meant and how God has affected you that would be awesome! I know some of you have already commented on this and we will use those comments too.

Thanks you for allowing us to come to your town and meet you and have friendships with you. My life has been changed by knowing you and seeing what God has done in you. We all miss you like crazy! Let's all keep in touch until God brings us together again. :)

Jon Hatch

Baltic Baptisms, Marlee, Jessica, Justin.

2006-07-20T05:28:00.000-07:00

While we were in Latvia God moved in the hearts of several of our team to obey Him in Baptism. Marlee, Jassica, and Justin all took a cold plunge in the Baltic Sea.

Goodbyes are so difficult...

2006-07-20T05:08:00.000-07:00

We have had a wonderful experience and goodbye is so hard to say. We are in London now waiting to board the plane for home and internet has been hard to come by but everyone is well, and three of our team members were baptized in the Baltic Sea before we left. It has truely been wonderful and I will update with some details when we get home. See you all at the airport.

Limbazi... Let us know your thoughts!!!!

2006-07-15T04:45:00.000-07:00

Hello Limbazi... We would love to know what you thought about the camps, the concert, and what the time God allowed us to spend with you means to you. Did God change your life? Tell us your thoughts and feelings by clicking on the "comments" link at the bottom of this post.

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It's 2:50 AM...

2006-07-14T16:53:00.000-07:00

We just returned to Limbazi from Riga where we each took one Latvian with us to a Christian Rock concert. The band “Delirious” played and it was fantastic.

Let me catch you up a little on the last couple of days. Wednesday evening we had our last evening youth service. After the discussion groups broke up we were praising God that four more girls had given their lives to Christ! Yesterday was so busy I could not get an update in so please bear with me here. The reason it was so busy was because it was the last official day of VBS and we had a parent’s night. Turnout was great and the kids all did a great job. Today the VBS kids came back for a half day party of water balloons and ice cream. Then we jumped into busses and headed to the concert.

It was awesome to watch Monta and others whose lives had just been changed, worship God with all of their hearts and experiencing the pure joy of their new lives in Christ. There were also some great conversations on the bus ride home. I will try and get some pictures and video up along with some more details later today after the sun comes up, but I just wanted to share some quick but incredible details of the last couple of days with you.

God Bless
Curtis

"Hello From the Team" Video

2006-07-12T09:11:00.000-07:00

Meet Monta...Her life was changed at camp

2006-07-12T06:10:00.000-07:00

Hello, my name is Monta.

I would like to tell you about myself. I actually grew up in a family where people had a lot of faith in other people, science and themselves. In my family no one really believes in God. One of my Grandmothers when I was little taught me a few prayers, and this was the first time I came across God and Jesus.

But because I was so little it didn’t make much sense to me I had not read the Bible or ever gone to church for services. When I was ten, my parent divorced. I actually thought I took it really well and it made me even more sure that I was the one who could deal with all of the problems…I could do it all on my own.

I never complained about my life I thought it was good. It got better when three years ago I went to Luxembourg and spent two years there. I thought my life was perfect but it wasn’t really because of all the stress I had, being in a new place and meeting new people. I got into a few eating disorders, but when I noticed it got me into more trouble I stopped doing that. I got back on track pretty fast and it seemed like life was good again. During this me and my mom became really close and I liked that. She was my role model, and she’s really convinced that we are the only ones who can lead our lives and really change them.

A year ago we had to move back to Latvia. I didn’t want to but we still came back. And that is how the worst year of my life began. I felt lonely even though I had friends around me and I had good grades, and my relationship with my parents was good, but I felt lost. This is when I started hurting myself. I was partying like crazy, drinking, smoking, and I didn’t want to stop, because it was the only thing that made me happy, this is what I thought. The few times I got scared and I started questioning myself. How long am I going to do this?... Why can’t I stop? The more I questioned myself, and people around me the more confused I got. This was probably was the hardest time of my life. I was empty and I did not know how to fill myself up. Then one day my English teacher offered for me to come to this camp. She knew that I was speaking English a lot, so I decided to come. Though when I heard that it will be around God and Jesus I had second thoughts. But then I figured it doesn’t bother me that much and I could still go and have fun, and make new friends. The first day here seemed like a mistake, but the next day it got better and we all became better friends, and I enjoyed every second I spent with these people.

But the best parts were in the evenings when the kids from Arizona came and gave their testimonies and Jon would talk. I could have listened to Jon for hours. I also felt myself changing. I felt things that I had not felt in a long time. I was truly happy and that was when I finally realized that it all had happened because I finally and truly let God guide me in my life. I even went to church on Sunday with them and I felt so grateful that they took me with them.

I don’t think I will be able to pay them back all those good things they have given me. With their faith and compassion in everything they do have showed me and given me new life. But above all that they have taught me that God is in my life and if I give Him my life He’s going to make something beautiful out of it. Basically I want to ask God to bless all of these people who are here and I wanted to thank the Lord for bringing them here. They are the best people I have ever met and no matter what I do and where I am I will still know they will always be in my heart. And maybe one day we will meet again and I know we will.

Talent Show Tonight

2006-07-11T09:02:00.000-07:00

Tonight our team and the locals will share their talents with each other at a talent show it promises to be great fun. VBS went well today and after the kids went home the girls all took Hailey to dinner for her birthday.

Richards Testimony

2006-07-11T02:44:00.000-07:00

Way cool!!!! The Video Worked!!!!!

2006-07-11T02:04:00.000-07:00

Ok... So now I can explain a little bit about the "rain Dance"...Last night it rained here for the first time since we have been here. In the middle of the evening program after a long hard day of VBS, the rain just poured down and everyone's attention turned to the windows. The next thing you know, a couple of the younger Latvian boys were out splashing in the puddles, and then a couple more went out, and within seconds the meeting had moved outside. It was a great relief from the heat (not the humidity but at least the heat) Hailey had just given her testimony prior to the rain and had proclaimed the joy God has given her and how Christians were not just a bunch of people who did not know how to have fun. It was neat to watch God create an opportunity to prove her testimony.

A video experiment?????Dancin in the rain!

2006-07-11T01:29:00.000-07:00

More VBS

2006-07-11T00:50:00.000-07:00

Some thoughts...

2006-07-10T07:35:00.000-07:00

Everyone's prayers are soooooo much appreciated. Therre has been some amazing things that God has done in the lives of the kids here and within our team. Almost any kid you ask "how do you like the camps?" replies with something along the lines of..."this is the best week of my life" or " I waited all year for this week", "I have no words...not even in Latvian". It is such a powerful thing to experience. The difference that God is making is so evident.

Friday night Richards gave his testimony of how God has changed his life. It was incredible to witness.
Tonight is another youth service and we would appreciate your prayers... there are so many kids with so many questions that are excited to know that God loves them so please pray.

"Serengeti Trek"

2006-07-10T06:58:00.000-07:00

VBS GOING STRONG!

2006-07-10T03:33:00.000-07:00

Today VBS started and the kids are all excited. Please be praying for extra paitence and energy for all.

A New Friend Alexandrs

2006-07-08T11:01:00.000-07:00

This is a new friend Alexandrs who we are enjoing getting to know.

Last Day of English Camp

2006-07-07T01:02:00.000-07:00

It is the last day of camp! The week has gone so well and everyone has done a great job with everything. Last night was awesome! So many latvian kids are close to making decisions to follow Jesus! We are praying that tonight lives are changed. Pray with us please! We will let you know what God does tonight.

Jon Hatch

Some more pictures below for you to enjoy!

our camp theme

the band rocking out

the young guys discussion group

sara and the girls singing

girls discussion group

guido and arvis

crazy game

our students doing a skit

English Camp

2006-07-06T01:22:00.000-07:00

Some of you have been wondering what it is we do exactly at camp and what some of the pictures are of. So here we go...
We have about 55 latvian kids attending english camp and we do several things with them. During the morning we have a big group gathering where we do music, games, and skits to get the morning started. Then they go to classes of about 10-15 kids each to learn english. After lunch we have recreation where we do lots of outside games for fun. Yesterday we created a 20 yard slipnslide for them to slide on and they loved it! Then they go back to class to learn more english and we finish the day with another big group gathering with music and games.
Then every night we have a youth worship service where we really get to share about God. The praise band does some great music, our kids give testimonies, we do skits, there is some preaching and then we break them into smaller discussion groups so they get the opportunity to ask questions.
Through all this our students are really trying to start friendships with the kids and share Jesus through those friendships.
Many of the pictures reflect all that I said above. So I hope this helps in knowing what we are doing and what to pray for. Also it might give you a better idea of what the pictures are of.

Love ya all!
Jon Hatch

2006-07-06T01:03:00.000-07:00

The spirit's at work...

2006-07-06T00:48:00.000-07:00

Hello everyone!
I wanted to give you an update on the last couple days of camp. Right now it is thursday morning and we are all really tired. However God is really moving in hearts and minds of many students right now. Our azhills students are really gathering energy from knowing that the latvian students they are working with are very interested in God and want to know more about Jesus. There has been some exciting conversations in several of our discussion groups the last couple nights. Tonight we are going to really talk about who Jesus is and what he did on the cross. So please be praying for the Latvian students that their hearts would be open and they would completely understand the message. Also pray for all of us that we would share it clearly and lives would be changed tonight! We need these prayers... in fact just stop reading right now and take a moment and pray. Pray that God would show up big tonight!
Your high schoolers from azhills are doing an amazing job. Many of them have already shared their testimonies and built relationships and they are all pouring themselves into making sure the kids here understand who Jesus is. Be proud of them because God is using them to make a difference in the world right here is Limbazi. Thank you for sending them!
There are some pictures here from our slip n slide we made yesterday and some others as well. Please keep the encouragment coming. The kids are getting a chance to check the blog and their email so your words are appreciated by them a lot. Thanks for holding us up in your prayers. We can feel it.

PS Amanda, Connor, Anderson... I love and miss you lots!

Jon Hatch

Happy 4-th of July!

2006-07-04T06:19:00.000-07:00

Today is Independence Day. In Latvia the Latvians are all flying flags however it is not for such a joyful occasion. The Fourth of July in Lavia is set aside to honor the memory of the Jews killed by the Nazi's, nearly 9000 Latvian Jews were killed. They fly the flag with a blck ribbon tied to the top in rememberance.

The 4th of July is also Zenja's ( Richards brother) birthday and the kids are getting him a cake later tonight and we will shoot off some fire works for Independence Day.

Yesterday Richards mother invited our family over to their flat for cake and coffee. It was wonderful to see her and we got to meet Richards' sister Jana, who is visiting from Ireland with Richards' new nephew, Dominic. Zoija, Ricky's mother is feeling better and we appreciat all the people who prayed for her earlier in the year when she was ill.

Curtis

Camp fun!

2006-07-04T06:05:00.000-07:00

Be praying for us as camp has started and the schedule is grueling...up at 6:00 and to bed after midnight. The first day of camp was a great success and so was the evening program.

Camp has started!

2006-07-04T01:46:00.000-07:00

Have to get back to camp ... I will try and give you all more of an update later today.

BBQ

2006-07-04T01:36:00.000-07:00

Sunday service and Bar-B-Q at the Limbazi Church

2006-07-04T00:51:00.000-07:00

Sunday we went to church and Guido gave his powerful tetimony about how he wouldn't have traded his encounter with God that day as he waited for someone to find him in the ditch even to be able to walk again...It was amazing to hear...Sara played the piano and Adam led worship with the local music team. After the service, we had another bar-b-que and cooked American style hamburgers for the congregation.

Riga

2006-07-01T04:50:00.000-07:00

Some images from Riga and Limbazi

2006-07-01T04:36:00.000-07:00

Made it to limbazi!

2006-07-01T04:28:00.000-07:00

After a night in Riga, we finally made it to Limbazi!!! It is great to be here and see everyone again. Yesterday afternoon when we arrived we had a huge cookout at the lake and many of the kids from last yearš camps met us there. We ate and played water-baloon games.

Today we started training for English camp and found out that there are twice as many kids signed up for camp as there were last year! How awesome is that?!! It will probably be a couple more days before we can get the kids to access you comments to them, however keep writing and checking the blog for updates. It would be great if when you notice us posting an update for you to email it to others who may be interested. The more folks praying...the better. I will try and post some more photos after this. Thanks againfor keeping us all in your prayers.

Curtis

Made it to England!!!!

2006-06-29T01:08:00.000-07:00

Travel has gone smoothly so far. We appreciate all of your prayers. We ended up at a hotel too far from downtown London to really do much sight seeing yesterday, but we were able to find some good “fish n chips” and a soft bed so that was cool. This morning we ended up on two different busses to Gatwick Airport; however, we managed to reunite in time to check in and now we are waiting for the flight to Riga. You should all be proud of your kids they have done great.

More when we get to Riga.

Curtis

Leaving Sky Harbor

2006-06-29T00:58:00.000-07:00

Thanks too everyone who drove us and accompanied us to the airport. It was a great blessing to have you all there.

Travel Details

2006-06-25T15:25:00.000-07:00

Click the 06-Itinerary link to the right for flight and travel information.

Great News from Limbazi

2006-06-25T08:31:00.000-07:00

I recieved this email from Janis (the pastor in Limbazi) last week. Lasma and Dace are sisters and both were translators at the camps for us last summer. They are really neat girls and it is so awesome to see God at work in their lives!!!
Janis writes...

Dear friends, I want you to be together with us in our celebration for the glory of our Lord and Savior tomorrow we will be baptizing 5 people. There are 2 (Lasma, Dace) and 2 (Irma, Lonija) sisters and one older man (Janis - now we are 4 Janis's in our churc :))) ). 2 younger sisters have grown in the church but the Lord spoke to them last year and especially through the summer camp.2 older sisters have been coming to services for half a year and you could see how God would work in their lives and bringing them closer to Himself.Older gentleman also has a long story but God has changed him through His grace and made him new creature in Christ. I just want you to be with us in this joyful moment and pray for me and for these people who will be baptized. Please praise our Lord and Savior with us and be in prayers for us!!!

In Him and for Him!
Janis

2 DAYS AND COUNTING...

2006-06-25T08:20:00.000-07:00

Ok the clock is winding down and it is almost time for our departure. Everyone is getting excited and some are even a bit nervous. Please be praying that God blesses our travel and all the logistics associated with it. Also, be praying for great team dynamics and communication to continue to develop. We are thankful for all who have made comments, so please leave an encouraging word when you visit the blog and keep on praying!

AZ2LV-06 Team

Greetings From Latvia

2006-05-30T10:39:00.000-07:00

Hey guys!Just wanted to let you know that we are looking forward to the camps this summer. Kids are getting excited already and can not wait for another month.There are still quite a lot of paper work to be done before camps start. And you can guess who is doing that :)The camps will be exciting but also tiring, but it is good to know that our sacrifices are not comparable to ones of our Lord. Ok! See you soon! Janis Kalejs

Support for the trip...

2006-05-28T13:38:00.000-07:00

God is good! Thanks to all who have committed to supporting this effort. We still have a considerable way to go in order to reach the needed support goal for this sumer's trip. Please be praying that God will be raising up people to support the trip through prayer and financial resources. Use the link on the right to access a printable version of the Faith Promise support form.

Meet the "06-TEAM"

2006-04-19T22:58:00.000-07:00

Click Here to Meet The 2006 Team

Click the link above or on the right to meet the "06 TEAM"

LV Summer 06 Under Way!!!!

2006-03-05T19:53:00.000-08:00

Today we had a great meeting with all the folks who intend to make the trek to Latvia this summer. It looks like a GREAT GROUP of folk who want to serve God! Please be praying that we are able to come together as a team and really get a lot accomplished in preparation for this trip. Also be praying that God will be preparing the hearts and minds of everyone in Limbazi as well as the people going.

What the kids in limbazi say...

2006-01-14T12:05:00.000-08:00

Ralphs said...
Hi Cortis!! I just want to say thank you abot that you was was here!Than you people who gave money to Cortis!!! Always love you all!!!
Ralfs said...
Thank you Cortis about that you teach us!!! And than you abouth thath last night for my mind it was like a sweets!!! In my head everything got clear!!! THAK TOU!!!
Rickyzzz said...
I really like that God let Curtis drive to Latvia so we could do so many good things. I was really happy that many people gave much money. thank you very very much. We don't have school in Latvia now it is too cold. The news told us that. I really liked ice skating with Curtis, bowling was really fun too. Dad made the first strike on the first throw.... he said it was his first time?!

Some thoughts I had on the plane after leaving

2006-01-12T13:45:00.000-08:00

A final journal entry for Friday January 6, 2006
(Ieva’s Tear)

...We had all said our last goodbyes and embraced for the final time. We had shared one last meal in the airport together and expressed our hopes that God would reunite us soon. I had already assured the kids that everything would be OK after I was gone…That we would be praying for each of them. I had already moved through the final security checkpoint and beyond, stopping at the glass-walled hallway that looked out across the café, below and over to the balcony where they all stood staring back at me with pleading eyes and long faces. I had already read their lips as they mouthed “We love you…God Bless you”, and had already backed slowly away with my eyes fixed on them until the glass gave way to a cold stainless steel wall which obstructed my view. I had already walked around the corner past the shops, down the hallway of teak glass and steel into the departure gate area where I had discovered no remaining vacant seats.

There were still a few minutes left before boarding would begin. In fact, the massive line, which evolves without respect to seat assignment for boarding planes in Riga, had not yet begun to form. I remembered upon returning home last summer from Latvia that the Lima chocolate, a sweet reminder, which for a moment could transport one back to Limbazi to the smiling faces of the kids, had disappeared much too quickly once we had gotten home. I didn’t want to repeat the mistake of being under stocked.

Double checking the departure time, I quickly turned and headed back towards the shops I had passed a few moments before. Upon quick survey, the first two locations provided little chance of yielding the precious Lima chocolate, so I turned back down the hallway rounded the corner, approaching the first store in the terminal…the one with its farthest wall forming the threshold between opaqueness and transparency, where I had last seen my Latvian family.

Forgetting about the chocolate, I wondered, “would they still be there?” After all, it had been several minutes, and they did have a bus to catch. My steps slowed as I approached the boundary of steel and glass. I hesitated unsure that if they were still there that I would have the ability to walk away again. Nevertheless, I allowed myself to look.

As I moved slowly past the transition point, Richards and Elina first came into view. Ricky had seemingly collapsed in Elina’s arms, leaning on her desperate for her maternal comfort. Elina’s eyes were shut as she tenderly held Ricky’s head to her shoulder with one hand, the other stroking the back of his jacket.

Immediately to their left stood Ralphs, his left foot perched lightly on the bottom rung of the balcony’s railing while his head was propped up by his right hand, his elbow resting firmly on the top rail. With a somber stare, he looked beyond the people and commotion of the café below, perhaps trying to find one more snowball fight or lap around the ice rink.

Having now moved entirely beyond the steel wall, I could see Lasma and Ieva. They tearfully clung to each other, swaying ever so slowly back and forth. I stood undetected watching this silent scene, separated by the glass and space, yet perpetually connected in my heart. The pure emotion of it all touched me at a level which defies description. I realized in the beauty of that instant I was experiencing the presence of God on a level I never had before. By allowing me to feel the love of those kids, the sorrow of our separation, and the deep longing to bless them, even though by blood they were not mine, God was giving me a more complete understanding of His love for us all. I was filled with awe and peace all at the same time.

Then, as confirmation of this truth, He marked the moment with an image…an image that will always be with me. Ieva had started to straighten up from their tearful embrace, still unaware of my silent presence. As she raised her head and reached to wipe the tears streaming down her face, one of them slid gracefully from her cheek. It seemed to almost pause in mid air as it caught a ray of light from the windows behind. I half expected to hear an audible single note chime as the teardrop fell. I’m not altogether sure my mind didn’t fill it in. The shimmering of that light enveloped the scene in a way that was beyond surreal; it was spiritual. With laser like brilliance, the light of Ieva’s tear etched the beauty of the moment forever in my mind.

Completely unaware of all that had just taken place, Ieva continued to wipe away the tears and within a few seconds, she turned and her eyes caught my gaze. A smile lit up her face. Excitedly she tapped on Lasma’s arm. Again I could make out her mouth forming the words, “He’s there…He’s there!”. Lasma shot up and her eyes darted to the place she had last seen me. Smiling, she reached out her arm extending it over the rail as if to touch my hand which was pressed against the glass wall separating us by some 20 feet. Ralphs and Ricky both looked up. Ralphs waved slowly, and Ricky’s eyes opened wide as he grinned. Elina simply gazed back at me as if to say, “Don’t worry, I will look after them while you are away.”

Then, just as quickly as they had appeared, the smiles faded, as if simultaneously we all knew that I would once again have to back away…this time for good. The edges of the scene softened as my eyes succumbed to the tears which had been mounting. I instinctively tightened my upper lip as it began to quiver and swallowed hard in a desperate attempt to stay in control. I needed to appear strong for them.

I had to go…backing away for the final time, I could still perceive the refracted light from Ieva’s tear radiating around the kids. I prayed that they would comprehend the love of Christ and how it engulfs them in the same way.

Rounding the corner to the gate area I could see the line had begun to form. As I approached the line I noticed a display cart containing the Lima bars I had set out for . It was from the very first store which I believed held no promise of the Lima bars. I proceeded to purchase a half dozen or so and get in line. If I had seen the cart in the first place, I would have never traveled back and seen Ieva’s tear nor been blessed in the manor I was that day. I think sometimes God blinds us from some things so that we might not miss others.

Getting on the plane, my boarding pass would not scan. The attendant called over the other girl working the counter who checked me in earlier. She looked at it and said, with a smile on her face, “Oh, I forgot…you’ve been upgraded.”

Richard's comment

2006-01-12T13:41:00.000-08:00

Rickyz said...
Hi dad. This web is cool! I like it. Arvis like it too! I thast want tell thanks for you been in Latvia. And say thanks who give you money! I LOVE YOU DAD!

Leaving was the hardest thing...

2006-01-08T00:46:00.000-08:00

Winter...

2006-01-08T00:24:00.000-08:00

It really was winter there!

Narnia

Stroller...

Got all the gear for Christmas

Aliens landed in the park???

2006-01-08T00:04:00.000-08:00

There were a lot of firsts for the kids on this trip. Ieva’s first movie and solo ice skating, Lasma’s first time bowling (and getting a strike), and Ricky’s first time having a birthday party.

It was cool that not only was I able to be there but some of the Josiah Venture interns and workers from this summer too. Erik, Lelde, Elina, and Ieja all joined us in celebrating with Richards. Galen and Cindy also called and wished him a happy birthday. I don’t think there is any way Ricky could not have known how much he is loved.

Ricky's Birthday Fun!

2006-01-07T23:31:00.000-08:00

Dinner and Skating at Lido

Ricky's Present

Never fall asleep on the bus...Especially if you throw to many snow balls, Jack!

2006-01-05T04:54:00.000-08:00

Yesterday we went ice skating (AGAIN) for Richards' birthday. Then we had desert and gave "Ricky" his presents. Lasma gave him a beatiful belt in a hand made box that was amazing.Before we went into town I had Ricky open his huge birthday bag. It had a small box of batteries in it and RIcky was a bit confused, but thankful :-) When I gave him his MP3 player later, he was extremely excited. I'm not sure we have seen him without it since.

The Adventures continue...

2006-01-05T04:38:00.000-08:00

Tueday we went to the sea. It was very cool! The snow on the beach was perfect for snowman making.When we got back to Limbazi, Ralphs and Richards cooked for us, pankukas, and pelmeni (a type of Latvian Potsticker). Lasma and Ieva worked on little bead angles that her mother sells at Lido to tourists. When Lasma makes 100 of them she can get a new phone...so she is very motivated!

2006-01-03T08:20:00.000-08:00

From Jon Hatch...
Curtis, I'm so glad you made it man! Looks like you guys are having a great time and that is awesome! I've never been ice skating outside but always wanted to so I'm jealous of you. Hello Richards, Lasma, & Ieva hope you all had a great Christmas and are enjoying your time with Curtis. I'm sure Curtis told you, but we are planning on coming out again to Limbazi this summer as long as everything works out to do so. A lot of the students here are excited to go again and we will probably have several new people for you to meet as well. I hear and know that God is working in your lives in great ways and just want to encourage you to stay strong and keep reading the Bible no matter what. A lot of us here are continuing to pray for you all. Know that you are loved and thought about often! The pictures of you guys are fun to look at, put more on when you get a chance. Talk to you again soon! In the meantime keep having a blast in the snow since there is none here in Arizona at all anywhere yet. See ya!

Jon Hatch

Ok Cindy says the spelling is bad....

2006-01-03T02:13:00.000-08:00

Sarry evarybady but the splill cheque is nut woarking wel nd I'm gong fst! hoop u get the ider ;-)

Monday

2006-01-03T02:04:00.000-08:00

Monday we went on the the bus to Valmiera and went bowling and ice skating. Valmiera is a town of 40,000 people and is about 45 km away. This was Lasma's first time bowling and she got several strikes! We had pizza at the "Sun Cafe". When we got home we watched a video at Richards' home.

Richards' House

2006-01-03T01:52:00.000-08:00

At Richards house we had a nice time with his mother Zoja and her sister who was visiting, Rita. We even watched Shrek in Latvian. Quite the different twist. Zoja is obviously home and feeling better. Thank you all who have been praying for her!

Limbazi

2006-01-03T01:42:00.000-08:00

Sunday we traveled to Limbazi and went to church and weent to Richards' house.

New Year

2006-01-03T01:24:00.000-08:00

We went to see the Cronicles of Narnia today and had pizza. It was another "great day" it was Ieva's first cinema which was very cool! When the movie was over Richards and the kids just gathered arround me and gave me a long group hug and said " it was the best day ever!" It was very touching.

We spent the entire tram ride home discussing the parallels between scripture and the movie. Lasma particularly enjoied looking for the symbolism.

At the Runzo's we all watched the "saluts" or fireworks everyone shoots off. I'm talking huge roman candles and all, everywhere. The sky over Riga looked and sounded like Bagdad, it was kind of weird but cool.

Ieva started the new year with text messages and peanut butter.

Satrday @ "Lido"

2006-01-03T01:16:00.000-08:00

Updates

2006-01-03T00:37:00.000-08:00

Ok seems to be working so I will type it all again! :-)

Saturday we went ice skating at "Lido" a huge resteraunt in Riga. It was "really great" as my Latvian daughters like to say. A fter that we returned to the Runzo's home outside of Riga. I was introduced to the Latvian tradition of "sauna".

Sauna is a crazy tradition. While very refreshing, the process seems to be counter intuitive. It starts with an icy cold shower, followed by entering the sauna room (closet??). Scott and Lisa have one in their home as many Latvains do. It is like getting into a chokingly hot black sedan on a 120 degree July day, then steam is poured on hot rocks and it get so hot you can not breath and your lips hurt! Then you get out and icy shower and repeat. The final sauna is followed by a run out into the snow face first and then you roll over and make a snow angle. Yikes!!! by that time you can't feel anything any way. I have a ne appreciation for the shrimp we cook on the beach and then ice down for shrimp cocktail!

test

2006-01-03T00:36:00.000-08:00

This one is a test! the last few entries are not here?????

Friday

2005-12-30T02:40:00.000-08:00

Julia - and the Russian Phrases

Today we are in the capitol city Riga. Richards and Lasma are with me and we are picking Ieva up at the bus soon. I am writing from Scotts office in Riga. Last night was intersting because Richards and Lasma were confused about my arrival time and Elina and I had to go searchng for them. Scott left me the car because they had a perormance to attend. So I got tonavigate the icy roads of the Lavian countryside and Riga in a five speed! (haven't driven a stick in a few years).

When we fianally met up with Richards and Lasma the Hug I got made all the travel and expence well worth it. It was truely a blessing to see them. Today we are going Ice skating and going to the movies. It will be awesome.

Elina has asked that we pray that God'š will be done in respect to her brother possibly getting engaged. Please pray for that!

I was able to use the Russian I learned on the plane. The kids got a big kick out of my accent and pronounciation! A big thanks to Julia and her mom for the lessons.

Some Photos

2005-12-30T02:25:00.000-08:00

I made it!!!!

2005-12-29T04:42:00.000-08:00

Ok everyone just a quick note to let you know that I made it. Unfortunately Richards and Lasma are still in Limbazi and they won't be here in Riga until later. Pray that God protects them as they travel and they go slow!

The flight was great, uneventful and profitable. God arranged for me to sit next to a mother and daughter from Southern California, on their way to Ukraine. I got personal Russian lessons all the way to Amsterdam. It was wonderful.

I must go but I will give you all more details when I get back to the computer.

God Bless

Returnig for a winter visit...

2005-12-15T21:27:00.000-08:00

I just want to thank God for His provision. All year since we have been back from Latvia, Richard and some of the other kids have been asking if we were coming this winter. Each time my responce was "Not unless God does a miracle" not wanting to build any false hopes especially knowing our budget.

Recently Cindy has felt strongly that I should try and return for a short vistit. Winter is long, cold, and dark so she thought it would be an encouragement if I were able to visit. So, as we started to pray about it we shared it as a prayer request with our small group and several others. Immediately God raised half of the money for a plane ticket. The WWW missions team at AZ Hills stepped up and committed to fill in what ever was remaining, so we went ahead and purchased a ticket for after Christmas.

I will be there for Richards' birthday on the 4th of January. He wrote earlier in the year that it was his dream to "spend his birthday with someone can call his Dad" as this is something he had never done before. It was really a blessing to be able to tell him that God had done a miracle in raising the funds for a ticket. Below are a couple of excerpts from the emails we recieved after we told the kids I would be visiting.

Richads writes...

"I'm very happy that Curtis can come. When I came back home, i called Lasma (she is sick as well) and she started to scream of happiness. I was praying for you all night long. I'm so happy. My wish is coming true... i'm thinking of you all the time, but now I'm even thinking of you when I'm studying. I love you!

Sincerely, Richard"

Lasma writes...

"I'm so happy
Please give big hugs and the best greetings to Curtis from me in this special day.
Richard called me and sayed: "I have suprise for you, but I will not tell you!" but he sed "ok ok Curtis is coming to Latvia" When I head that I were in shock. I didn't belive that. It is the best news in the last cople months. I am soooo happy. I just have no words.
I love you all very very VERY MUCH!!!
Your latvian daughter"

Be praying that God will bless this trip and that He will use it to encourage the kids. The youth are still meeting on Friday nights and the AWANA kids are still going strong on Saturdays. It is our prayer that God will use these kids to forever change Limbazi and all of Latvia.

I will try to update the blog as I get ready to go and while I am in Latvia. Please comment as often as you can. If you want to review the highlights from this summer click on the "July Archives" link on the right side of the page.

God Bless,
Curtis

Pastor Janis' Comments

2005-07-26T10:16:00.000-07:00

Pastor Janis of the Limbazi Baptist Church says...

Hey!
It was really good to see all the kids that showed up for AWANA. Even though it was raining. But God stopped the rain right before we had to play games outside, and right before kids had to go home.
Of course it is just beginning, but we are hoping that God will use this program and leaders of the AWANA to bring many to Christ, also the parents of the children. It is new thing for the church, to go outside its walls, but I believe that God will work and bring many into the Kingdom.

Once again I want to express my gratitude for all your efforts while here in Limbazi, and for your continues prayers and support.

Janis Kalejs

Follow Up Service this Sunday

2005-07-25T08:51:00.000-07:00

This Sunday, July 31st, we are having a latvia mission Sunday in both main services at Arizona Hills Church. Make sure you don't miss it as the team shares what God did during their time in Latvia.
God is continuing to work even now as we are home and we will share what God has been doing in the past weeks since we've been home. Don't miss it!

Jon Hatch

20 kids at the first AWANA!!!!

2005-07-24T14:21:00.000-07:00

Janis, the pastor at the Limbazi Baptisit, church reported today that there were 20 kids at their first ever AWANA program. PRAISE GOD!

For those of you who do not know, AWANA is a weekly Bible club for kids of all ages. There are games and Bible lessons along with a ton of scripture memorization. Be praying that God will raise up plenty of leaders for the Limbazi program. I will be talking to the Desert Sun AWANA club about the adopt-a-club program. This is a program where one AWANA club sponcers a new club to help it get going. Pray that God blesses this ministry and uses it to further transform the town of Limbazi.

Curtis

First Limbazi youth night

2005-07-22T00:07:00.000-07:00

Praise the Lord! Our family just got back from Limbazi and are just amazed by how God continues to work. There were 25 students at the youth meeting from the two camps. I wish I could remember all their names, but I'm sure you will hear about it through others. I don't think this church has seen this many young people in it for at least 50 years, it was great.

There was music (David from camp played with Eric), we played games and Janis spoke on "what is eternity". Lasma, who just gave her life to Christ last week, gave her testimony! After the program people hung out, I don't think the people of the church were ready for all the young people. There was even a few smoking outside after the service, I'm sure people will be talking.

Thanks again Az Hills God used you to make it all happen, please, please keep writing those new friends you made, and pray often for us here in Latvia.

Scott Runzo

From your missionary in latvia

2005-07-20T10:37:00.000-07:00

This is Scott Runzo one of Az Hills missionaries in Latvia. I just wanted to connect you to our web-site so you could hear in more detail about the summer in Latvia. The team from AZ Hills was amazing and served God well and we saw great things happen because they came and served. We could not do the work that the Lord has called us to here without the support of quality groups like the one from AZ Hills. Please read more at the following site, if you would like to continue to receive updates about the work in Latvia please e-mail me at the email address on the following site, Thanks and thanks for supporting our work and sending a team to help. We hope Az Hills will be a big part of the work happening in Latvia for many years to come.

http://slrunzofamily.typepad.com/the_runzo_family/

On the way home!!!!

2005-07-18T08:58:00.000-07:00

The team left London today and is heading for Phoenix...this email terminal is terrible so I will be brief.
Everyone on the team is fine, but tired. God has used some powerful and dramatic events to forever change the team and the town of Limbazi. Our last evning will nver be forgotten, but God added even more people to His kingdom because of it.
We will post details after everyone is home and has a chance to rest, but we just wanted to thank all of you for your prayers. I am so proud to have been associated with such a fine group of young peoople whoo aree oonn fire for God.

Leaving was one of the most emotional times I can ever remember. We will all miss our Limbazi family, and are looking forward to seeing our family back home.

We will continue to blog our after thoughts and postscripts to the trip so keep checking tthe blog.

VBS in full swing!

2005-07-14T01:04:00.000-07:00

Today we are starting the last day of VBS in Lambazi, Latvia. It has been an incredible week! Our az hills students have done a great job hanging with the kiddos and being there for them all day. They are tired but some how they push through with God-given energy! Last night we had a parents night and lots of parents came. It was so fun. The pastor of the church here talked about kids programs they are starting, inluding awana. So many connections were made between the parents and the pastor. We are praying that many people begin to attend the church here and their lives are changed. So God is working all over the place... in kids, teens, adults. Wow!

Tomorrow we are leaving this town and heading back to Riga, Latvia and then on Saturday we will be going to London. The trip is coming to a close, but pray that maybe some more ministry happens tonight and tomorrow as we leave. God works all the time! Also, pray for traveling safety. I have called and checked on all of our flights and hotel stays and everything is okay and secure, but please pray. We will update you tomorrow on the effects of vbs. Until then look at some more pics below.

In Christ,
Jon Hatch

2005-07-14T00:55:00.000-07:00

Latvian kids having a blast during big meeting! They love the songs!

2005-07-14T00:54:00.000-07:00

Girls in the Anna bannana group.

2005-07-14T00:53:00.000-07:00

Brett and Brennan at VBS.

2005-07-14T00:51:00.000-07:00

This is a latvian hedgehog. Cool huh?!

2005-07-14T00:50:00.000-07:00

Some latvian teens and our team.

VBS Has Start at Full Speed!

2005-07-12T01:15:00.000-07:00

After a weekend of a little R&R the team went full speed ahead into vacation bible school on Monday! We had close to 40 kids show up excited about the week! Our azhills students had tons of enthusiasm and energy for them and it made the day for the kids. The first day couldn't have gone better and everyone did a great job making sure the kids had a good time!
We really need prayer for energy for the rest of the week. Slowly each one of us is feeling the exhaustion of the past days. We want to really make the kids here enjoy this week and we are all pouring out everything we have to make it happen. Please pray for us!
Also pray that God would use us to reach these little kids for Christ. Pray for decisions to be made that last forever. Pray for little hearts to find Jesus!

Thanks again for the encouragement. We love it!
A few pics below...

Jon Hatch

2005-07-12T00:45:00.001-07:00

First Day of VBS.

2005-07-12T00:45:00.000-07:00

BBQ after church service on Sunday. It was the church's 97th year anniversary!

2005-07-12T00:44:00.000-07:00

R&R on the beach at the Baltic Sea.

Pray for some missing gear...

2005-07-10T05:59:00.000-07:00

Friday morning a computer and video camera came up missing. Pray for the return of these items. The computer belonged to one of the interns and had her first year of seminary work on it. Pray also that this fact does not seal the joy from the wonderful week we have had.

Curtis

English camp is over... 10 came to Christ! Many others are getting closer!

2005-07-09T10:04:00.000-07:00

Wow! That's all I can say right now! God is incredible! Last night He changed hearts and lives of 10 latvian teens right in front of us. They all began relationships with Christ that will last forever. Many other students have taken serious steps closer to coming to know Jesus. God is good!
Yesterday morning our az hills kids were tired like never before. They all talked at our morning meeting how they felt that they had poured their lives into the latvian teens and they were heart broken for them. They all wished that all the teens would understand how muched God loved them and that their lives would change. So as a team we called on God to specifically change hearts during the last evening program. And he honored our request! Awesome!
Every single student has given 100% of themselves to make a difference in the world. And because of that committment 10 more souls have been won for Christ! Woo Hoo! Your prayers have been a big part of it. Thank you for all the spiritual support.

On another note... we know of the attacks in London and are working on making sure our hotel is still available and flights are okay too. Right now everything looks fine for us, but as we continue to communicate with everyone we will keep you updated. Everyone here is safe and secure. So no worries but please keep praying for safety.

Today we are resting and getting ready for VBS next week. Thanks again for being a church body who loves God, Christ and us. Keep up the prayers!

Excited about changed lives,
Jon Hatch

Until the next update here are some pictures below...

2005-07-09T10:03:00.000-07:00

Fun at our very own coffe house after evening program.

2005-07-09T10:02:00.001-07:00

Ryan talking to Jack, a latvian student, after the evening program.

2005-07-09T10:02:00.000-07:00

Mark's small group.

2005-07-09T10:01:00.001-07:00

Zack and Jon leading small group after evening worship.

2005-07-09T10:01:00.000-07:00

Big meeting during english camp

2005-07-09T10:00:00.000-07:00

A latvian student with a funky hairdo!

3 Days of English Camp Down... 2 to go!

2005-07-07T02:06:00.000-07:00

I wish I didn't have to write this and instead you all could experience what is happening here because your faith would change in huge ways if you could only see how God is at work. But since you can't I will tell you the amazing things that are happening.
We decided as a team that one of our goals would be to do everything we could to move latvian teens closer to the cross and closer to making Christ a part of their lives then let God do the rest. Well guess what?! It's happening! Last night, the 3rd night of camp and evening program, the room was packed with teenagers. There literally was not an empty seat in the room. We were looking for chairs anywhere we could (latvians don't really like sitting on the floor). God moved in huge ways throughout the service like he has the previous 2 nights. After the service we give the students a chance to get into small groups and answer and ask questions about God, Christ and church. I wish you could have heard the conversations! Every group was into heavy talks about Christ. And afterward many latvian students told us that this is the first time they ever were able to talk about these topics and how much they loved it.
Last night, during our team meeting our az hills kids were so pumped and excited about the conversations they had that they couldn't sleep. Everyone of them talked about how they felt God using them to reach out to the latvian teens they have built relationships with. There have been no complete decisions for Christ yet... but nothing like what we are doing has ever been done in this town! So inch by inch teens are working their way to Christ changing their lives forever.
Again I must tell you how incredibly bold our az hills kids are! I have been challenged in my own faith because of their boldness. Every single one of them puts themselves on the line for God everyday just to build relationships with the latvian teens here. They share their testimonies and personal life experiences all the time. They are so consumed by God and how they see him working in peoples hearts. I get goose bumps just writing about it.
The english teaching has started to become fun for all of us. And the latvian students are really having fun as well learning the english. They especially like american idioms like... See you later alligator, It's raining cats and dogs, or Catch you on the flip side!
Thanks for all the responses on the blogs. The kids do get a chance to read them, but not much time to respond. So please know that your encouragement is getting to them and they love it.
Pray! Pray! Pray! That God continues to do amazing things here. Tonight we are really talking about Jesus and his sacrifice on the cross. Pray that lives are changed tonight!
Until tomorrow there are pictures below for you to look at.

God Bless you all!
Jon Hatch

2005-07-07T02:04:00.000-07:00

Kids singing and dancing during english camp.

2005-07-07T02:03:00.002-07:00

Latvian students engaged in the evening program.

2005-07-07T02:03:00.001-07:00

Fun times at the lake.

2005-07-07T02:03:00.000-07:00

Curtis talking with Richard, a latvian teen, after the evening program.

2005-07-07T02:02:00.000-07:00

Road to the town lake.

2005-07-07T02:01:00.000-07:00

The crowd from the first night.

2005-07-07T02:00:00.000-07:00

The Latvian kids love mark. They are taking pictures of him with their camera phones.

2005-07-07T01:59:00.000-07:00

Dancing at a town party