Sunday -- July 1

What a fantastic Sunday in Cesis. This had to be one of the more most memorable worship days in my life. I know several other team members felt the same way.

First, we gathered at the shore of a large lake where 4-members of Cesis Baptist Church were baptized. Pastor Olegs preached a short but very good sermon about these new brothers and sisters in Christ were also new 'rocks' in the foundation of the church. Several songs were sung, accompanied by Steve Gowan on the guitar. It is so moving to hear the Latvians singing in Latvian and the US team singing the same song in English. Each of the four were baptized in the waters of the lake as the rest of us watched from the shore. It was not hard to imagine a similar baptism almost 2000 years ago....reeds on the shore, waves lapping at the edge, just a simple, beautiful ceremony.

Afterwards, we had regular church services with special recognition of the newly-baptised members. The Latvians seem to take baptisms as a lot more special than maybe we do. Each person was presented with several bouquets of flowers from the last two members that were baptised. Special music, scripture readings and gifts were presented to each one.

Since this was the last day for our group to be in Cesis, several of our team members either spoke or sang. The Cesis congregation is always gracious with our group and seems eager to see our style of music and worship.

Lastly, we had the Lord's Supper. Everyone that is partaking is placed in a large circle. The bread is then passed from person to person with each serving the next. The communal cup is then passed in the same manner. It was very reverent with time for reflection and personal prayer. It was so meaningful to do this with the Latvians. I think it bonded all of us even closer.

Closing the day, we had a fellowship outside of town with the Baptist congregation from Valmeira. After a time of singing and fellowship we had a lot of Latvian food and fun. Our team, especially the students, were happy to get out and enjoy the beautiful countryside.

Unfortunately, the first US group had to leave to return to Riga for their trip home. They flew out at 5:55 this morning (Monday). Many, many church members and Sports Camp kids arrived at the hotel in Cesis to see them off. After a few tears and hugs, they were on their way. As I write this they should be about to land at DFW.

We took the second group to the airport this morning. They left about 2:30p for Frankfurt for an overnight stop. They will land at DFW around 2:00p on Tuesday.

So, it is very lonesome right now in Cesis. Not only were we sad to see all of the Americans leave, we also had to say good-bye to our youngest sons, Jacob and Jordan. I know that Laura and I were both dreading the time that this would come but it was definitely harder than we imagined. Six months is a long time to not see your family ... they are both good boys and I know they will do well but it is another chapter in our lives that is closing.

When we felt God was calling us to this field, we all knew there would be sacrifices on all of our parts, including all four of our sons. They have encouraged us to do what we feel is God's mission. Thanks to all of you: Andrew, Adam, Jacob and Jordan. We love you . . .

Tomorrow: the wrap-up of a successful week's activities

MWimberley2005@yahoo.com