The First Baptist Church of Bend, Oregon has been devoted to partnership ministries in Latvia and with BBI since 1998. Their latest mission journey is described here by Janine Toomey.

    BEND, Oregon – First Baptist Church of Bend sent a team of ten individuals to Latvia for two weeks.  The team had two primary objectives:  provide young adults to work as team leaders at the Eagles Wings camp in Ergli alongside Latvian young adults; and provide workers to advance the construction of the high ropes course as well as a dock and bridge for the sauna at the camp.

    The team was treated to a very engaging walk-about of Riga with Chuck Kelley upon arrival.  After a few days to acclimate to Latvia, and rest up, they traveled to Vangazi for a little work, and a lot of wonderful hospitality.  Treasured relationships have been formed with the Vangazi Baptist Church and the team desired to bring encouragement and blessings from Bend. 

    First Baptist Church of Bend recently undertook a project together with Christmas Valley Community Church to send a container of building materials, sports equipment, tools and even a pick-up truck to Latvia. 

When the team arrived on site at Eagles Wings camp, it was immediately evident to see what a blessing the container shipment had been for the camp.  Everywhere you looked you could see something that had been shipped from America to Latvia!

    On Monday morning, the campers arrived in camp, the workers set to work, and the week was under way.  While the work set out to accomplish was important, the relationships formed were of highest value.  The team

members had an opportunity to work, worship, pray, eat and live with the campers and leaders of Eagles Wings camp. 

    By the close of the camp, significant progress was made on the high ropes course. 

The deck/dock and bridge were complete for the sauna.  Everyone sensed God’s incredible presence throughout the entire time as new believers were born again, and existing believers were refreshed and renewed. 

    God continues to bless the partnership First Baptist Church of Bend has with brothers and sisters of faith in Latvia.  Should Jesus tarry, we will continue to seek ways to encourage and support the work of introducing people to Christ in Latvia.