Directly from Matt Picciotto:
With the door closing on evangelism and missions in Russia as well as many Muslim and Eastern European countries it has become necessary to shift the focus of "Missions". That is what 1st Baptist Church of Pigeon Forge and Russia For Christ have begun in Pigeon Forge. And as partners in Pastor Alexei Kotchan's ministry it is what four people from Mariners' Church went to experience the week of August 25-28.
The “Work and Travel Program”
Every year approximately 2500 students from Russia and thousands more from Eastern Europe and Asia travel to Pigeon Forge to work in America under the Work and Travel Program of the State Department. These are the people group targeted by the "International Student Center". These students are very bright, often coming from top universities in their home countries, they have chosen to learn English and to learn about American Culture, travel and live here in the United States. They then return to their native countries.
The “International Student Center”
Unfortunately for many of the students it is the “work” part of the program they see the most of and not a lot of the travel. But that is why the 1 st Baptist Church of Pigeon Forge joined by Russia For Christ is such a blessing! They take the students places they might not be able to go, provide them with a place to do laundry, use a computer, bikes have also been donated for student use (as the students do not own cars,) and a place to go to for help. The main volunteer Linda also helps the students with their English as well. It seemed no matter what time we were there there were always a few students there doing laundry, using the computers or returning/ borrowing a bike.
Our short visit was packed with activities typical of the ISC. Shortly after arriving we were blessed with the opportunity to see a musical “The Miracle”. A theatrical story telling of the birth, death and resurrection of Christ. We were joined by some 20 plus students. We also joined Alexei and Tanya as they held a “Borscht Party” for the students. After eating Tanya gave a presentation on abortion, and for many of the students it was an eye opener. The last thing we were able to do was join 30 students on a short hike at Great Smokey Mountain National Park. God blessed all of us during our short time in Pigeon Forge. Emory (the most extroverted of the four of us) had many opportunities to fellowship with students. Bobby and Nicole were a great encouragement to Alexei, Tanya and there two daughters. I was able to Learn more about the ministry and God revealed future opportunities in Pigeon Forge, TN.
The Future
With missions trips to Russia becoming more and more difficult and the opportunities for effective ministry limited. God has revealed an open door for us to preach the gospel to foreign students. And even beyond the planting of seeds but to actually disciple new believers over the course of a summer. The work and travel program has brought these students to us! Being young many are open to learning the truth about God and His people.
The 1st Baptist Church of Pigeon Forge is looking into expanding their student center and it’s activities to include the creation of a travel agency to bring students here and place them in jobs and housing, offering the continued support through the summer that the typical agencies do not offer. Longer term plans include the leasing of an apartment complex or group of cottages with one apartment or cottage set aside for missionaries to live in close proximity to the students to provide guidance and be a Christian example. Pay attention to announcements as plans are made to expand our involvement in this ministry.
Foreign Missions is changing, the mission field is coming to us.
A few pics from the trip: click here
Great post, Matt!
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