Chuck and Nancy Kelley News

Spotlight on Chuck Kelley

Sat, 25 Feb 2012 22:53:09 +0200

By Chuck Kelley

PHILOMATH, Oregon – I was born and raised in Los Angeles, California in a Latvian-American home. My grandfather, Rev. Charles W. Singer, was a refugee pastor from Latvia and mission founder. He had led his family out of Latvia in 1944.
Though I attended church regularly, I didn't seriously surrender my life to the Lord Jesus Christ until I was in high school in 1969. I then attended the Church of the Open Door in Los Angeles. The pastor was Dr. J. Vernon McGee, a most outstanding Bible teacher and visionary.
I enjoyed traveling with my grandfather on numerous ministry trips through the U.S. and Europe. I was especially fascinated with Texas. During my high school and college years, I participated in many short international ministry trips to destinations such as Mexico, Canada, France, Italy, Austria, Belgium, and Great Britain. I spent time learning about international ministry with several wonderful organizations: Campus Crusade for Christ, Operation Mobilization, Open Doors with Brother Andrew, Unevangelized Fields Mission and the Italian Gospel Mission.
I studied at BIOLA University in La Mirada, California for four years. The late Dr. Clyde Cook, who was my advisor and mentor, especially influenced me. I completed my BA degree at BIOLA in 1977 with a major in intercultural studies and a minor in history. During college I loved working on and polishing my 1970 Chevy Nova which was one of the hottest cars on campus.
Also at BIOLA, I met Nancy Heidebrecht, a wonderful girl and excellent nursing student. For our first date I took her to a black gospel concert featuring Andre' Crouch and the Disciples. Three years later we were married in her home church in Fremont, California. Her father, Rev. Harry Heidebrecht officiated.
After BIOLA, I studied pastoral ministry at Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary in Ft. Worth, TX. I then earned an MA in Biblical Studies from Dallas Theological Seminary, writing my thesis on my grandfather's life and ministry with refugees and immigrants. The professors who influenced me most were Elliott Johnson, Haddon Robinson, Howard Hendricks, Don Regier and Charles Ryrie.
After serving in several in music, youth and associate pastor positions in California, Texas and Oregon, I accepted the position as Senior Pastor of Kingwood Bible Church in Salem, Oregon, in 1984. In 1988, I became Senior Pastor of First Baptist Church in Corvallis, Oregon, where I served until 1995. In all I have worked in pastoral ministry for 21 years.
At the urging and help of my grandfather, I first visited Soviet Latvia with my mother in 1985. I was shocked at the conditions that the people lived in and, as a result, the course of my life changed. Since 1985, I have made more than 100 trips to the Republic of Latvia, during where I have engaged in extensive preaching, networking, pastor training, and citywide evangelism.
In 1991, right before Latvia was freed from the Soviet Union, I served as the organizer for Hope '91, a major evangelistic and training crusade in Riga that featured the evangelist Steve Russo. More than 2,000 people took steps toward Christ, and more than 400 leaders were trained in a ten-course Mini-School of Christian Leadership. In 1992 and 1994, I also organized and directed successful Hope festivals and mini-schools in the cities of Riga and Ventspils.
In 1993, I took part a multi-national expedition to a Russian-speaking Muslim republic to investigate strategies for future ministry by Latvians. As a result of later visits from Latvians based on that first scouting trip, several hundred Muslims took steps toward Christ and have formed a national church which today experiences significant persecution. In fact, the government has now bulldozed that church.
In 1994, with the help of my wife, Nancy, and Mike and Stephanie Parker, I founded Bridge Builders International, an organization committed to connecting people and organizations for joint ministry and mobilizing networks of Christians to use their talents to spread the Gospel. In 1996, my grandfather's ministry, the International Refugee Mission merged with BBI. Grandfather passed away the next year.
In 1999, BBI helped launch a new Latvian affiliate, Partners Foundation. My Latvian partner was Almers Ludviks, who was respected Baptist pastor.
I currently serve as Director and Chairman of the Partners Board of Directors. A talented and dedicated team of Latvian Christians staffs “Partners”.
In 2002, BBI and "Partners" helped establish the Latvian Evangelical Alliance. I served as the Director of Foreign Relations for the LEA for several years. I currently serve on its Board of Directors.
In 1999, I served as the international director of Hope '99, a nationwide saturation evangelism effort in Latvia with evangelist Luis Palau and a team of 150 churches and ministries from fourteen countries. During Hope '99, the message of Christianity was presented more than 200 times in multiple settings to a combined live audience of more than 50,000 in 33 cities around Latvia, as well as on national television and radio. Former President of Latvia, Guntis Ulmanis, served as honorary patron of the festival and publicly stood to underscore his commitment to Christ at the closing service. In all, some 5,000 people took public steps toward Christ during Hope '99.
In 2006, our ministry came alongside the Latvian National Prayer Breakfast Committee to build a Prayer Breakfast Movement in Latvia. I served on that committee until 2009.
In 2007, at the request of the Bishop of the Latvian Baptist Union, we were one of several organizations to help establish the Baltic Pastoral Institute. I serve as Dean of International Affairs and teach theology and missiology. Check out www.bpiriga.lv/lv/news.
I enjoy networking and interacting with international leaders. I have attended and benefited from numerous major conferences and special events in the Philippines, South Africa, South Korea, Cyprus, Italy, Sweden, Russia, England, Germany, Hungary, Greece and Latvia. I absolutely love meeting new people and being exposed to new ideas and models of leadership and ministry.
Over the years I have been a guest lecturer at George Fox University, Multnomah Bible College, Dallas Theological Seminary, Western Baptist College, Western Baptist Seminary, Mennonite Brethren Biblical Seminary, Tabor College, San Jose Christian College, Oregon State University, the University of Oregon, the University of Washington, Solasen Training Center in Sweden and the Latvian Baptist Theological Seminary in Riga.
I love to write and have written numerous articles for The Christian Leader, Discipleship Journal, Christian Herald and Impact. I am the author of "Church-to-Church: Building Ministry Partnerships Worldwide", a basic handbook used by Bridge Builders. My book, Surprised by the Father's Plan, tells the story of my family, life and BBI. It was released in English in 2005 and in Latvian in 2006. My book website is: www.surprisedbythefather.com. It is also available on audio CDs.
I enjoy reading and have an extensive library. My all time favorite Christian book is The Knowledge of the Holy by A. W. Tozer. I have benefited greatly from the works of Francis Schaeffer, RC Sproul and Richard Foster. I also read technical journals related to computers. I am an avid reader of art history. My most recent favorite author is Timothy Keller. His book, Reason for God, is stunning. Dennis Rainey’s Stepping Up is also fabulous.
I am a lover of art, especially painting. For many years, whenever I had a day off and am close to a fine art museum or gallery I could be found soaking in as much beauty and insight as possible. I started to paint myself in 2004 and have benefited greatly from the expert instruction of Latvian masters. Aleksejs Naumovs was my first teacher and Kaspars Zarins has been my main mentor the last few years. I try to paint one painting every week. Not always successful. I am a member of two art guilds. My art website is www.charlesdavidkelley.com.
In 2003, President Vaira Vike-Freiberga humbled and awarded me with one of Latvia’s highest honors, the Gold Medal of the Order of the Three Stars.
Today, Nancy and I are still married after 34 years. We live in Philomath, Oregon, a small timber town near Corvallis. We also have a small apartment in Riga's Old Town where I live about four months every year. We have four grown children, all of whom are married; and we have six fabulous grandchildren.

Last revised 25 February 2012

This is NOT Where I Sit

Sat, 15 Oct 2011 04:50:17 +0300

Musings of a Veteran Traveler
By Chuck Kelley
LOS ANGELES, California – I write this from my mother’s home in L.A. She isn’t well and I visit her pretty often, but tomorrow I begin another journey to Latvia. I haven’t been there for five months. Really looking forward to it.
I’ll fly KLM to Amsterdam, hang around the airport for several hours and then take Air Baltic to Riga, arriving about 21 hours after departing. Actually 21 hours isn’t bad. Back in the day it wasn’t unusual for the trip to take 36 - 40 hours.
It’s supposed to be at 77°F (25°C) and partly sunny when I leave LAX. And it’s supposed to be 55°F (15°C) and partly cloudy when I arrive in Riga. Rain is promised toward the end of the week.
I’m already thinking about what I will do in the airplane. In recent years, as seats have been placed closer and closer together, airlines have systematically reduced the options. If I get an exit row or bulkhead seat I will be very happy. This will mean I can use my computer either for work or to watch a movie or two. Such fortune is seldom, but not impossible. If the passenger in front of me reclines I won’t be able to watch the airline movie on the tiny screen on the back of his seat. So I will listen to some classical music, doze and read.
My friend, Tim Heath of Lake Tapps Community Church in Washington, just gave me his copy of The Long Walk: The True Story of a Trek to Freedom by Slavomir Rawicz. It is a WWII story of a Polish officer, his sentence to Siberia and subsequent escape from a Soviet gulag. He and a small group of fellow prisoners walked out of Siberia, through China, Tibet and over the Himalayas to India. Fascinating.
More importantly, I look forward to arriving in Riga on Sunday evening. My wonderful office manager, Vineta, will meet me at the airport. My schedule is filling up quickly.I will teach at Baltic Pastoral Institute on Monday and Tuesday. Next Friday our entire BBI/Partners team will meet for sharing, encouragement, prayer and planning. On Saturday I will speak to young people in Vangazi. I always love spending time with youth.
BBI is involved in lots of expression of ministry including Mission Days, Prayer Days, Eagle’s Wings Camp, Celebrate Recovery, New Hope Latvia, the Global Leadership Summit, Baltic Pastoral Institute. It will be my joy to invest some of my time to each.
The next month will include more teaching, preaching, speaking, meeting, planning and mentoring. There are so many people that I look forward to spending time with. And then for personal pleasure, I have set aside each Wednesday and Thursday evening for painting in the studio of my good friend, Kaspars Zarins.
I do ask my friends to please pray for me...for strength, stamina, wisdom, safety and fruitfulnes. Pray also for dear Nancy and the babies!
Lord willing, I will leave Latvia on November 14th, once again in the sardine section. But to be honest, sitting in the cheap seats is a small price to pray for the privilege to serve in Latvia. I really glean a lot of joy in the process.

The Impossible Happened

Wed, 24 Aug 2011 07:34:24 +0300

Recalling the Week – Exactly 20 Years Ago – When the Soviet Union Fell
By Chuck Kelley
PHILOMATH, Oregon – I remember it as it were yesterday. It started on Aug. 17, 1991 when Soviet President Mikhail Gorbachev was placed under 'house arrest' by powerful hardliners who attempted a coup d’état. They were trying to squelch the freedom movement and re-establish Stalinism. Gorbachev was released after two days, but he soon thereafter lost power for good.
The president of the newly re-established Republic of Russia, Boris Yeltsin, stood on a tank at a huge demonstration in front of the Russian White House. He urged the army and other leaders to resist the hardliners. They did and the USSR was no more.
One leader of the seven-member coup was a creepy Latvian, Boris Pugo, former head of the Latvian KGB and Communist Party. When the coup failed, he shot himself and his wife.
Then on Aug. 21, Latvia declared her independence…again…and was finally recognized by the free world. What most people thought, myself included, was the impossible had just happened.
During that same week my friend Pastor Almers Ludviks and family arrived in Oregon to begin a one-year course at Western Seminary in Portland and an internship at my church, the First Baptist Church of Corvallis. Our congregation joyfully and lovingly hosted his family. When they left their homeland it was Soviet. When they returned it had been free for almost a year.
Apart from the Ludviks’s tenure in Oregon and the breakup of the Soviet Union, BBI would never have been established. I like it when the impossible happens.

Ambassador in ‘PLANES’

Wed, 20 Apr 2011 20:13:59 +0300

Just like the “Ambassador in Chains” needed prayer, so does BBI’s “Ambassador in Planes”
by Chuck Kelley
PHILOMATH, Oregon – A few minutes ago my dear Nancy drove me to the bus station in Corvallis. It was hard to say ‘good bye’ to her and our precious little grand babies, Seth and Ellie. I am now sitting on the shuttle bus from Corvallis to the Portland International Airport. It is a two and a half hour drive. Amazingly, this bus has wireless internet. Hence I am writing this article and editing our website whilst on the bus. I always get a lot done on the airport shuttle.
The Apostle Paul referred to himself many ways, including ‘ambassador in chains’. He was often imprisoned for the sake of the Gospel. Even so he managed to devote much of his life to missionary journeys when he represented his Lord and His Gospel. I hesitate to seriously compare myself to the Apostle, but my calling is also to serve as one of the Lord’s many ambassadors. Paul spent lots of time in ‘chains’. I don’t. But I do log lots of time in ‘planes’, usually in the sardine section. Frankly, the long flights are tortuously confining.
I’ve estimated that I literally spend several weeks every year sitting in planes. It seems that the seats are getting smaller and the space between seats are shrinking. Then again, I’m not as small as I once was! Ironically, I am often seated next to a passenger who is also of ‘impressive girth’. Many a time have I exchanged disappointing sighs with such a fellow traveler. Even so, the Lord often manages to help us engage in meaningful conservation.
So today I am beginning another missionary journey. It will last for seven weeks and will involve 11 flights, most of which are international. There will be lots and lots of ‘sardine time.’ Why do I write so much about this? Simply because when people pray for me I certainly need the Lord’s strength the do this; further I need his protection from the frequent back and neck strains that come with all of the confinement. I also want to have the Lord’s strength and wisdom to engage in meaningful conversations that also involve matters of eternity.
In the next seven weeks I will visit my Mom in Los Angeles and then spend three weeks in Latvia (our next major event is Prayer Days). While in Latvia I will preach in several churches, teach at Baltic Pastoral Institute, engage in numerous strategic leadership meetings and visit our missionaries.
From Latvia I head to Finland where it will be my joy to spend four days with my wonderful mentor Johan Candelin. We try to spend 4 or 5 days together every year. It is a time of great mutual encouragement.
Then I head for Eger, Hungary where I have been invited to speak twice at the European Leadership Forum. I am happy that a couple of other Latvians will be there, Peteris Sprogis and Paula Sumane.
From Budapest I will go to Naples, Italy as the guest of Pastor Michele delle Cave and family. It is always a blessing to be together with this dear family and to minister in his churches and special conferences organized by his ministry.
And then finally, I will return to Oregon via Los Angeles, taking a few more days to be with my Mom.
I am not planning to be in Europe during the summer months, for the first time in more than 15 years. I simply need to be at home with Nancy and the babies more.
Just like the “Ambassador in Chains” needed prayer, so does the “Ambassador in Planes”.
Thank you.

Click Here to Give

Ministering in a Very Cold Place

Sun, 2 Jan 2011 03:06:25 +0200

Thank you for praying for me as I travel to Latvia in January and February
by Chuck Kelley
PHILOMATH, Oregon – After a wonderful Christmas season, I will return to Latvia on January15th. I will be in Latvia for six weeks.
Usually I take the long flight alone, but this time my traveling companion will be Pastor Marc Andresen of Calvin Presbyterian Church of Corvallis, OR. He is going to Latvia for a couple of weeks to teach at Baltic Pastoral Institute, minister with his sister church in Tilza, and participate in Mission Days. We have been friends for some twenty years and I welcome the chance to get more time with him.
Classes at BPI start again on January 17th with a new group of students. I am still rejoicing over the wonderful graduation celebration that took place in Riga a few weeks ago when our first crop of students graduated from the three-year program.
Ieva, Vineta and Zaiga in our Riga office have been working very hard on the final touches of preparation for Mission Days. I am looking forward to helping lead that wonderful annual mission mobilization event. I will be leading a special seminar on mission leadership for pastors.
I will also teach an intensive theology course at BPI in February. My subject is the Lausanne Covenant and its importance in terms of doctrine, passion, spirit and dedication to world evangelization. I first taught through the Lausanne Covenant in the Spring of 1988 in my own church in Corvallis. The Lord used that educational process to help establish a stronger mission foundation in my pastoral ministry. It also set the stage for the theological establishment of BBI. Many consider the Lausanne Covenant the most significant global church statement since the Nicene Creed.
During the third week of February I will host my dear old friend, Herb Resse of Broomfield, CO. He will be teaching an intensive course on Developing and Leading a Men’s Ministry at BPI. The course will be opened up to pastors from around the country. I have known Herb since 1969 when he was instrumental in leading me to the Lord Jesus. How fun to hosting him in Latvia 42 years later. Amazing.
As I will be away from home for several weeks, Nancy’s wonderful cousin Judy from Sacramento will be staying in our home to help with the care of the grand babies. What a wonderful blessing!
I always welcome the prayers of our dear friends, but when I am on the road I need an extra measure of strength, wisdom and good health. Lord willing, I will return to Oregon on February 22nd.
If you want please refer to my schedule listed on the right side of this page. I will try to keep it fresh and current.

A Wonderful Valentine’s Morning

Sun, 21 Feb 2010 14:03:40 +0200

By Chuck Kelley
I thoroughly enjoy accepting invitations to preach in Latvian churches, so I was pleased when Pastor Elmars Plavins invited me to preach at Trinity Baptist Church in Ogre. Elmers picked me up in Riga about an hour and a half before the service. We had a good conversation in which he told me about the good things that have been happening in his church in recent months. Ten or twelve people have come to know the Lord. On a personal level, after many years of service, this is Elmars’ last year as the chief chaplain for the Latvian army. He is looking forward to when he will be able to devote his full attention to his church and the churches they would like to start.
As we were pulling into the parking lot I noticed how clean the parking lot was. The snow pileup was over three feet. He proudly told me that part of his exercise routine he shovels the parking lots several times a week. It takes 3 or 4 hours. It was very cold outside, but nice and toasty in.
After heart felt worship and a children’s blessing, I was invited to preach. At first I told the congregation a little bit about what we do in Latvia. I also shared about the importance of Baltic Pastoral Institute where I done a lot of teaching the last few weeks. Two of my students, Dainis Pandars and Janis Rencis, come from this church.
I love preaching from the parables, so I selected a message on the prodigal, “Surprised by the Father’s Love.” In the course of the message I described a meaningful moment when my wife's Grandpa took both of us in his arms. The occasion was the funeral of Nancy's Grandma, Anna. It took place in 1978. As Grandpa held us tightly, he said that he was going to 'show us a real Jesus'. He didn’t understand what he meant.
Grandma's funeral service was very meaningful, but no one in the room was prepared for the way it would end. As the service closed Grandpa went to the open casket, placed one hand on Grandma's head and lifted his other hand to heaven and offered a stunning prayer, "Lord, thank you for Anna, for 58 years of being together. And thank you that she has been such a good wife, mother and grandmother. But I really thank you that she is now with Jesus and one day not too far away I will be with her again and together we will be with Jesus."
Ever since that day it has been the goal of my preaching to show people a real Jesus. One way to do that is to preach his parables.
The emphasis of the message is that the younger son and the older son in Jesus’ story were not all that different. The younger son wanted the Father’s money, but not the Father; the older son wanted the Father’s work, bu also not the Father. The tragedy is that only one of them came to his senses to go to the Father and say “I have sinned against heaven and before you.” It wasn’t the self righteous son.
The Lord blessed the message and the Holy Spirit moved in that place to draw people to come to himself, some for the first time and others to seek renewal or special prayer. Elmars told me that six people gave their lives to Christ, one woman and five men.
As Elmars drove me back to Riga we both rejoiced in the wonderful way the Lord has blessed this Valentine’s Day.

Faith and Action

Wed, 11 Feb 2009 11:21:18 +0200

By Chuck Kelley

PHILOMATH, Oregon – It was my privilege to attend the 57th Annual Congressional Prayer Breakfast in Washington DC the first week of February. The event lasted for almost four days. The actual Prayer Breakfast was on Thursday morning.
My purpose for attending was:
•    to participate in the main event,
•    to experience the totality of the events associated with the international Prayer Breakfast movement;
•    to network with as many people as possible with the idea of making new friends for our ministry and the Latvian PB movement; and
The Main Event … the Prayer Breakfast
The room was crowded with 4,000 people from 170 nations around tables. Each person was required to be seated 30 minutes early. No personal cameras were allowed, but interestingly, there were television cameras and the PB was broadcasted live on CSPAN.
Since this event is officially sponsored by the US Congress, two congressmen served as emcees. The breakfast was opened with the Lord’s Prayer prayed by an Indian chief in the Cherokee language sequentially translated into English. Beautiful.
The plenary address was eloquently given by former Prime Minister, Tony Blair. “For billions of people, faith motivates, galvanises, compels and inspires, not to exclude to embrace; not to provoke conflict but to try to do good. This is faith in action.
“You can see it in the arousing of the world’s conscience to the plight of Africa, a cause we in positions of political power tried to answer, but which was driven by people of faith.”
Blair continued, “A million deaths a year from malaria is wholly preventable. We want 2009 to be the year that people of faith become the change makers against malaria and take direct action to tackle this preventable disease.”
After Blair was finished a couple of senators and members of Congress shared the importance of the weekly prayer gatherings. These kinds of testimonies were repeated in many of the other meetings as well.
President Obama was welcomed with a long-lasting standing ovation. My initial impression is that he has aged a lot in just a few weeks. His speech lasted 14 minutes. He is articulate, elegant and impressive. Here is a brief excerpt:
“I was not raised in a particularly religious household. I had a father who was born a Muslim but became an atheist, grandparents who were non-practicing Methodists and Baptists, and a mother who was skeptical of organized religion, even as she was the kindest, most spiritual person I’ve ever known. She was the one who taught me as a child to love, and to understand, and to do unto others as I would want done.
“I didn’t become a Christian until many years later, when I moved to the South Side of Chicago after college. It happened not because of indoctrination or a sudden revelation, but because I spent month after month working with church folks who simply wanted to help neighbors who were down on their luck – no matter what they looked like, or where they came from, or who they prayed to. It was on those streets, in those neighborhoods, that I first heard God’s spirit beckon me. It was there that I felt called to a higher purpose – His purpose.”
Other Events
The Congressional Prayer Breakfast has many events, most of which are intended to help PB movements all over the world among many different kinds of people. These events are extremely important because of the numerous relationships that are formed and strengthened and the momentum maintained in the process.
The International Dinner for European leaders took place on Wednesday evening. The purpose was to provide opportunities for various European leaders to share brief testimonies about how PB movements have impacted their own lives and their nation. A former MP from Norway chaired it. Representatives from Albania, Turkey, Norway, France and Serbia spoke.
One of the best testimonials came from Georgina Dufoix, former Minister of Social Affairs and State Solidarity for France. She has had a special burden related to the topics of forgiveness and reconciliation. She really speaks with passion. I heard her speak a couple of times at the 2000 Prayer Breakfast and her heart and message remains constant.
People
I have always believed that the best thing about conferences and special events is opportunities to meet new and interesting people. This PB did not disappoint.
One of the guest speakers in another dinner was Mandla Mandela, the 33-year-old grandson of Nelson Mandela. He is the new chief of the tribe that his grandfather used to lead many years ago. He amazed the people with a 40-minute talk that seemed to pass in 10 minutes. Chief travels with a white man from South Africa and they speak about the importance and possibility of racial reconciliation. Chief wears tribal beads, carries a royal scepter and dawns a lion skin. I met Chief Mandela twice during these days and asked if he would be interested in Latvia and he indicated that he would be. He gave me his contact info.
The Prayer Breakfast movement worldwide is a powerful and effective way to share the life of Christ in places of strategic influence. I am glad that BBI has played an active role as well.
Tony Blair’s entire speech can be read here: http://tonyblairoffice.org/speeches
President Obama’s entire speech can be read at the White House website:
http://www.whitehouse.gov/blog_post/this_is_my_prayer/

Serious Faith...Serious Fun

Mon, 15 Sep 2008 11:23:03 +0300

By Nancy Kelley

“There is no pit so deep that God's love is not deeper still.” – Corrie Ten Boom   Chuck shared this quote from The Hiding Place in a message to 40 young adults at their week-long student leaders camp. Many young people in Latvia have already experienced deep pits in their short lifetimes. Even though they are too young to remember the Soviet times, they still live with its affects in the government, society, their communities and families.    But for these young people who are student ministry leaders with the Latvian Christian Student Fellowship (known as Intervarsity in the US), God has shown Himself faithful. They are followers of Christ who are serving as small group leaders in seven cities, on all of Latvia’s university campuses.   We had the privilege of getting acquainted with them at their camp in the little town of Jaunpagasts, where Chuck had been invited to be the speaker on the topic of ‘faith’. We lived with the students in an elementary school, ate with them, sang with them, played with them and prayed with them. We met one-on-one with students who requested it and had opportunities to listen, advise and counsel as the Lord led.   We recently received an email from Baiba, who led the worship times along with another girl. Baiba’s life story has definitely included dark times and deep pits. She said, “...This camp was time, when God spoke to every one of us. Thank you for this time together. May the Lord bless you and lead you through every storm with His peace.”   The day we left, the students were preparing to welcome about 100 more students who would join them for their big camp. It was valuable for the leaders to have the days together beforehand to prepare their hearts and to plan for the big camp. We now know how better to pray for and work alongside this vital ministry here in Latvia.

100th Trip to Latvia

Wed, 3 Sep 2008 15:52:12 +0300

By Chuck Kelley

RIGA, Latvia – It has been said that people count things that are important to them, like birthdays, anniversaries, pounds and money. I count all of those things, but over the years I have also counted ministry trips, specifically those to Latvia.
Twenty three years ago, when I took my first trip to Latvia, it never crossed my mind that one day I would be able to say that I have returned more than 99 times. But, it is true. When Nancy and I arrived in Riga several weeks ago, the count reached 100.   My first trip to Soviet Latvia happened in August 1985, three months before our youngest, Karen, was born. Mikhail Gorbachev was the new president of the Soviet Union and on June 11th of that year (I remember the date because it was our eighth anniversary) he announced sweeping reforms called ‘peristroyka’ (restructuring) and ‘glasnost’ (openness). At that point in time no one had an inkling that the reforms would move so quickly and deeply. Most doubted that anything would really change. I certainly did.
My, how wrong we all were! Within a few years, the USSR imploded, the Baltic nations declared total independence from their occupiers and a new era began. Over the years Latvia has experienced tremendous challenges, yet has also made amazing progress. Crime is down, the economy is up. Foreign goods fill virtually all shelves in the stores, and foreign tourism has grown so much that last year there were more visitors from abroad than the national population. Latvia is now a member of the European Union and NATO and has a voice in the affairs of the most influential continent on the planet. Major problems that still face Latvia include inflation, criminal elements (from the West and the East), rising health care costs, high suicide rate and extremely low pensions for the elderly.
Spiritually, in the late 80’s and early 90’s, Latvians were incredibly eager for religious freedom, especially with a Western twist, and many churches grew in size, depth and boldness for outreach. It was during those amazing days that our partnership ministry began. We were privileged to witness wonderful fruit as countless hearts were touched and lives transformed by the power of the Lord Jesus.
Over the years we have had front row seats, watching the Lord accomplish much in this tiny land. In recent years we have also watched as hearts have cooled, churches have declined and attitudes have hardened toward the Lord Jesus. Our ministry has responded to societal changes by making corresponding strategic changes. We still build and care for partnerships, but our primary focus is on leaders. We continue to draw on the incredible variety of resources represented by American sister churches and specialized ministries, but I am spending more and more time in Latvia, involved in front line ministry.
Our nation-wide work with pastors deepens each year. Our commitment to reach as many leaders who have national influence also deepens each year…with some remarkable results. Our partnerships with foreign and Latvian ministries to encourage and equip a new generation of missionaries are stronger than ever.
We praise the Lord for the thirteen magnificent young men who are students at the Baltic Pastoral Institute, where I serve as Dean. Another twelve or thirteen students will begin in January. This represents significant hope for church planting and replanting in the years to come.
I am not the same person I was 23 years ago. I am older, grayer and bigger. Karen is now married and a mom of her own baby boy. Nancy and I live in Latvia more than ever and we are enjoying working side by side with our fine Latvian team. Vineta has served Partners faithfully for eight years; Lienite is back on board leading important projects and Andra is eagerly getting started.
We also are very pleased with our team of six missionaries who serve in the eastern region the land. Paula’s courage to start a new life as a missionary in the hinterlands at the age of 60 is remarkable. The Roths and Petersons, along with Marvin, have labored tirelessly and creatively in church ministry, camping, agricultural development, construction, evangelism, discipleship and youth ministry. It is a great team.
Our American team is smaller these days, but Naomi, Jennie, Matt and our super-volunteer, Annette, have demonstrated faithfulness and diligence for many years. Because of their work our capacity to connect resources with needs in Latvia is stronger than ever.
Even though I have come to this land more than 100 times, apart from the amazing commitment of thousands of others, only a fraction of the fruit would have come about. Over the years we have seen more than 150 churches and ministries work together, bringing more than 2,500 people to minister in Latvia from abroad. Several thousand have publically declared their faith in the Lord Jesus and several hundred Latvians have served as short term missionaries to Russian speaking Muslims in Bashkortostan and beyond.
I have decided to quit counting my trips to Latvia. Maybe I should count sheep to help me sleep better, or calories to ensure better long term health. But one thing is certain, I won’t quit counting the blessings that are provided by the Father’s surprising hand.

A Man Used of God in His Surprising Plan

Wed, 15 Mar 2006 10:34:42 +0200

By Kristīna Soloha

The following conversation took place between Chuck Kelley and Kristīna Soloha of SVĒTDIENAS RĪTS (SUNDAY MORNING), the Newspaper of the Evangelical Lutheran Church of Latvia. The occasion was the release of the Latvian edition of Surprised by the Father’s Plan. Translation into English by Dr. Gunars A. Iesalnieks.

What is the main theme of your recently published book “Surprised by the Father’s Plan”?
There are no limits to God’s capacity to surprise us. He has a unique purpose and plan for every person’s life. If we observe, listen and obey God, the course of our life can become very interesting and can influence others in a surprising way. My life has been very interesting - yet, God uses every one of us. If my book will serve as an encouragement and example to show that God gladly uses an ordinary person’s life, then, in my opinion, it will have been successful.
I worked on the book for five years. As I began to write - I recall thinking of young people, my children’s generation. When I was their age, reading autobiographies of various Christians truly inspired me. I asked myself – what has become of such autobiographies nowadays? Where are the examples young people could appropriate for themselves? I reasoned - could my book serve as a guidepost to young people who stand at the crossroads of life, to decide which way to turn. Could my book encourage and inspire them to begin the path of service, while reminding that God will always provide for His children?
One of the commentators of your book states that, “Once a reader picks up this book, he will not be able to put it down until he has read it.” Was the writing process of your book equally as uninterrupted and continuous?
A professional writer was my co-author. We wrote and re-wrote, again wrote and re-wrote – seemingly, we went through the entire book six or seven times. We carefully edited the voluminous material. It required six months to select and lay out the 250 photographs.
A different approach was needed for the Latvian version of the book. Writing in English, as an American - Latvian, I tell the Americans about Latvia in a way that to some Latvians possibly may not seem agreeable. Therefore, such lines were deleted from the Latvian version, and replaced by more expanded themes, that Americans would not have understood. In reality, there are many things Americans do not understand about Latvia. Therefore, if the English language version of the book were too specific, the American readers would skip the pages. Approximately 90 percent of the contents are identical; yet, differences are there as well.
On the one hand, the book is the story of your life, - but, can it also be considered an objective historic source?
Definitely, yes – and that is the interesting part. In the introduction I write about Latvia in the first part of 20th century, the Soviet and Nazi occupation years. The narrative continues about my family that experienced the occupation years. This is very valuable source material reference for those who do not have good knowledge of Latvia’s history. Over the years, we have invited approximately two thousand Americans to minister in Latvia, and this is the material they should read prior to arriving in Latvia. In turn, this material is valuable for the Latvian people, to understand how others view Latvian history from distance in time and space. A certain Latvian historian once told me, ‘it is interesting to hear Latvian history from an American point of view – one can learn much from this different perspective.’
Yet, the book does not address only the long past history. It also speaks about God’s work in Latvia during the latter part of 80’s and during the 90’s, at the time of Atmoda (Awakening) movement, when such significant evangelistic events as “Hope ‘91” and “Hope ‘99”, took place. The book also speaks about Latvians, who during the ‘90’s began to bring the Good News to the East, even though dominant progression of development was directed towards the West. Their reliance on God’s leadership and the fruitfulness of their efforts also represent the historic materials of the book.  Besides, the book is not only my story; it also contains the materials expressed in interviews of my Latvian friends.
Spiritually, Latvians still face a difficult developmental path.
In his review of the “Surprised by the Father’s Plan”, Archbishop Jānis Vanags says that “Spiritual revival of the society still is as exciting and difficult challenge to you as ever – more significant than ever”. In your opinion, is it possible to ever bring such spiritual revival to its conclusion?
That is an interesting question, because – on the whole, what is spiritual revival? To what extent is it influenced by historical and sociological factors? To what extent is it the work of God’s Grace? In late ‘80’s and in the beginning of ‘90’s, Latvians experienced a spirit of adventure, enthusiasm and receptiveness to everything Western, including Christianity. With this receptiveness, many truly committed their lives to Christ – yet many opened their hearts to anything Western. Can we call that a spiritual revival? In my opinion, no – I would call it a unique phenomenon.
Revival could be described as a special visitation of God in a concrete place and time, which is difficult to predict. My goal is not to always strive for revival, - I consider it more significant to influence changes. But, when God grants us revival and deeply touches hearts, the results of spiritual transformation over a period of two or three months are comparable to results of typical ministry over five to ten years. Such is the spiritual revival – concentrated work of God, with influence and fruitfulness. However, the revival does not continue for a long time, it arrives, and wanes after a short period of activity. In my life, I have felt it two or three times, - here in Latvia as well, a few years ago. I do not anticipate some particular moment of spiritual revival. However, it is important to me to work in that direction, inviting God’s people, representatives of various denominations and nationalities, in order to accomplish together what is not possible in seclusion, and to promote spiritual maturity.
What spiritual sphere factors are unique to Latvia and non-repeatable in the community of other Baltic and European countries?
In context of socio-geographical criteria, Latvia is unique with its national composition that includes a large share of Russian people. The country is very small, with population of only 2.3 million, and not particularly well off economically to boot. Sudden joining the European Union and NATO also are significant factors. President Vaira Vīķe-Freiberga has gained an immense respect at the global level. The geographical location of Latvia makes it the heart of Baltic region, and Europe’s gateway to the East. I consider Latvia the greatest hidden treasure of Europe, although efforts are underway to discover this secret. The annual tourist population exceeds that of the country. Latvians are very intelligent, know several foreign languages, and are very creative. Outwardly, Latvians are handsome and beautiful people.
Spiritually, Latvians still face a difficult developmental path. Most of the churches are not growing numerically. Average age of the church members is rapidly increasing. In a very large part of the Latvian Christian congregations, there are fewer than three youths in attendance, and that is a tragic situation. Christians of strong faith experienced difficult trials during the years of the Soviet occupation. Now, that the situation has changed, churches have difficulty building bridges to youths, who have not experienced the Soviet occupation. Regained freedom in Latvia secures coexistence for a whole spectrum of spiritual currents. There is opportunity to practice the ancient Latvian paganism, Eastern religions, Western materialism, and, of course, worship the god of money.
What would be the possible solutions?
Of course, there is no single answer. In my opinion, various ways of partnership and cooperation with the West would be successful, by joining the areas of strengths of Western and Latvian churches, to accomplish jointly things that could not be done separately. Identification of the weak points of Latvian churches and efforts to improve them will not yield the hoped for success. However, identification the strong areas of the system, and efforts to strengthen them even more, will cause the strong areas to become more influential and effective, thereby influencing the entire system. How to implement this in practice? Concentrate on the young people. Provide them with encouragement, example, advice, training, and opportunities to express themselves and put into practice their ideas. Concentrate on development of leadership. One of the greatest problems in every sector of Latvian society, in business and education, as well as in the Church, is the lack of leaders. For their part, the best existing leaders are burdened with too many responsibilities and their energy is dissipated. This is a huge problem.
The question is – how to train new leaders, so that they would be prepared for the 21st century, yet, at the same time, respect the current order in the church. The new leaders must be able to lead in today’s society; yet, tomorrow’s work cannot be accomplished with yesterday’s tools. It is important to find a way to give the new leaders relevant sense of belonging in church and society. John Stott, a prominent British theologian, has said that pastor must be an expert in both worlds – to understand the biblical world with a Bible in one hand, and the modern secular world with a newspaper in the other hand. It is important to build such a bridge.
What is the most significant task in maintaining in working order the most important bridge of all – the one that unites man and God?
Of course, the original bridge builder was the Lord. Demonstrating His infinite love towards us, He started to build the bridge - while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us on the cross. Even though sin separated man from God, Christ, by His death, built the bridge; the cross is the bridge. Man is invited to walk across that bridge in faith and repentance of his sins. But we must also witness to the world about the bridge between man and God, so that, those who need Christ would not look upon churches only as architectural monuments in the old city, but rather that activities in the churches would be alive, tangible, and pertinent to our days. That is the task of Christians – attract attention of the society where we live, not only by preaching about good works, but also doing them, thereby helping everyone to find the bridge, already built by God – the bridge man must cross.
Another commentary about your book says this: “Today we read many books about prominent people, whose lives go on alongside with an insignificant god. This book is about an insignificant man, who leads his life alongside with significant God. How does it feel – to walk through the life with awareness that you are that insignificant man?
Reflecting on that thought – it is not difficult to think of myself as that insignificant man, if we realize that our feet are made of clay, that we are weak by nature, and yielding to temptations can destroy our lives. On the other hand, I have no idea why God has granted me such an interesting life; I do not deserve it. I do not deserve the honors and awards. I would not have completed my book, were it not for many people, who unselfishly and even anonymously worked and helped me. The book contains six pages of acknowledgments of gratitude. If I receive recognition, then it should also be granted to my many helpers. Yes, I think I am that insignificant man, who has somehow managed to do well. Nevertheless, I realize that God has chosen to use me for some surprising plan, known only to Him.
While attending seminary some 27 years ago, I served part-time with a large church in Texas. There were fourteen pastors, of whom I was the fourteenth, the last, - the lowest. The senior pastor wrote a report about my life and service, addressed to the seminary. The report mentioned that I could be entrusted to serve only in the music ministry and nothing else, because I was said to have no abilities to lead and influence people. I was not suppose to have seen this report, yet it was shown to me at the seminary, and I felt very hurt. I was very angry, because I clearly knew that God has called me to Himself, to use me in some way. At the same time, I was aware that I have speech difficulties, lack of self-confidence, and fear of authoritative personalities – they are all natural fears. Yes, I know that I am an insignificant man.
How do you sense God’s protection?
First of all, He protects me from myself, from my human nature. I also have frequently sensed God’s safeguarding hand when, evidently, I walked on dangerous paths, for example, going into the Muslim world. I begin my book “Surprised by the Father’s Plan”, with a narrative from my life, in which God wonderfully protected me in 1985, during my first trip to Latvia. Even though I knew it was illegal, responding to requests of Latvian pastors, I had brought with me Christian literature and a few Bibles. Crossing the border, I was required to carefully document every Christian book I brought into what at that time was the Soviet Union, and certify with my signature that I will bring all of these books with me as I leave the country. While visiting in Latvia, I recall realizing - I must leave these books here, I cannot take them with me. So, I left not only all my books, but nearly all of my clothing and other things as well, and returned to the airport with an empty suitcase, except for a few souvenirs. Standing in line at the customs area, I shivered with fear, realizing that in my hand I held documents clearly indicating that I had broken the law. Then I simply prayed to God: “Lord, in the New Testament it says that you make blind eyes see. Today, Lord, I ask you to make seeing eyes blind!”
As the line moved forward, I continued to pray. I saw how several people were searched and carefully inspected, but, when my turn came, the customs official just took my documents, did not even glance at me, and called for the next person. There! – That is what I call God’s wonderful protection. In the subsequent days I have experienced it again and again. I am not fearless, I fear many things, but God always protects me.
So, then God also surprises you in this way.
Yes, that is so, because I am not at all courageous. Although, in my opinion, - courage is not absence of fear, but ability to take risks, in spite of fear. I have noticed that God surprises me most of all, at times when I take risks.
What do you wish to say to the readers of “Svētdienas Rīts” (Sunday Morning) newspaper – to those who already have become acquainted with your book, and to those who are still considering reading it?
To those who have already read it, - if the book spoke to your heart, share it with others! But, even more significantly, prepare a list of things for which you are thankful to the Lord! If, with this book, I can help someone discover the fingerprints of the Lord in their lives, if I can push somebody closer to God, I would be very delighted. However, my greatest dream about the book is – that many, many young people would read it!
Charles David Kelley • American Latvian with dual citizenship • Founder and President of The Bridge Builders International (organization for partnership between Christians in USA and Latvia) • Baptist pastor with over 30 year experience in ministry  • Married, four children • Author of the recently published book “Surprised by the Father’s Plan”
“When I was my children’s age, reading autobiographies of Christians truly inspired me. Now I ask myself – what has become of such autobiographies nowadays?
“Courage is not absence of fear, but ability to take risks, in spite of fear.”