November 24, 1998

Dear Parents,

Please excuse the impersonal touch but we are much too preoccupied with the work. We do however want to let you know that we adore every single one of our missionaries and they are working diligently to bring people unto Christ.

Our mission is smaller than most (70 missionaries) due to restrictions but our missionaries work hard to strengthen the 11 branches in the mission. Our largest branch boasts over 100 active members and the smallest has about 30 who attend. Most of the saints are educated but poor. Most live in a small typical Russian apartment consisting of a kitchen, and undersized bedroom, and small living room where the couch makes down into another bed. Only ½ dozen people would have the luxury of owning a small Russian car. The people dress well (as nice as we do) but do not own more than 2 or 3 outfits. Most women for example would wear the same nice outfit every Sunday for 2-3 years.

Currently the biggest challenge for these people is economic. They work hard but only get paid from 1 to 3 times a year. During these times they must eat the simplest of foods and do without any frills like fruits, sweets or anything really except the basics such as bread, eggs, potatoes, cabbage, beets, pasta, and mush. Most everyone owns a small garden plot outside the city. They desperately depend on this garden produce to tie them over from pay check to pay check. Every day we pass long lines of older people on the sidewalks selling garden produce in order to purchase bread, eggs, etc. We ache for those on monthly pension who get about $30 a month but can only collect it when the government has money.

In spite of these conditions the people do not complain. Life has ever been thus. They love good music and adore the fine arts like ballet and opera. They had religion drummed out of them but we are changing that. They smile, they are kind and once you get to know them they will do anything for you. We love these people. We love their culture and their lifestyle. Once converted they make wonderfully faithful saints.

The opportunity to bring souls unto Christ is a highlight in our lives. To work with our dear obedient missionaries is an honor. Sister Galbraith and I thank you for preparing your missionary to be worthy of this call to serve.

Just a friendly reminder that will help the Lord's work move along successfully:

1. One of the most important things you can do is write once a week. Our missionaries can sometimes feel alone and abandoned out here in Siberia.
2. Please do not offer to sponser worthy Russians to leave their homeland to live and study in America. It usually detracts from our efforts to strengthen Zion here.
3. Despite the rumors, missionaries get ample funds for all their needs out here. Food too is plentiful on our monthly allowance. Unless a large item such as a new coat or shoes or hat is needed, missionaries can easily get by on the funds provided.
4. If your missionary lives outside Novosibirsk, send any packages direct rather than via the mission home. This helps immensely.

Having sent 8 children on missions we know somewhat of the sacrifice you make to keep your missionary out here. We pray the Lord's peace to be with you and that such sacrifice is acceptable to Him.

Sincerely,
President and Sister Galbraith
Russia Novosibirsk Mission