On July 25-27, my wife Alena and I were able to visit Minnesota. This is a state where I experienced true and freezing winters, where my children grew up, where I received a calling to spiritual ministry, where I had the experience of “faithfulness to God in little”, and where I began ministering as a pastor at a church which was small at that time, but which God blessed in the past, and continues to bless to this day!
Returning to the familiar church filled my heart with unexplainable reverence as I saw the faces of those with whom we began the journey of “spiritual transfiguration”, and remembering those who have gone home, as well as those who were children not that long ago, but are now grown men and women. The church is growing, new people are joining its ranks, different ministries are developing, including the choir, youth, and children. This healthy church serves as a representative of all generations, and this creates an atmosphere of belonging and growth.
The church is named “Transfiguration” and is emphasizing the truth about which Apostle Paul said “We all, with unveiled face, beholding as in a mirror the glory of the Lord, are being transformed into the same image from glory to glory, just as from the Lord, the Spirit.” 2 Cor. 3:18. While looking at ourselves in the mirror, we see “the imprint of time” on our faces. While looking at the old photographs, we are amazed at the contrast…but this is not a reason for us to despair because the process of constant renewal continues every day of our lives.
The church service went very well and was filled by singing of the choir, musical groups, and a large number of visitors (despite the COVID-19). I was rejoicing that God continues to do His work In Minneapolis. I am grateful to the Lord for the ministry of the church pastor Michael Timoshenko who grew up in the pastor’s home and who has entrusted the baton of ministry to his son.
It is pleasant to recognize that among the churches of the Pacific Coast Association there is a church that is located far from the Pacific Coast, yet is a part of the family of churches which are united by the love of Jesus Christ.
Ivan Mileyev
