A Weekend in Moscow

Our group's time in Vladimir was great. We were able to form relationships with many of the people at Emanuel Church, including most of the men who were staying there as a part of the rehabilitation program. One of them insisted on putting a massive collection of psychedelic trance music (some form of techno) on to my computer. I have noticed that this type of music is quite popular in the East, as it can be heard echoing from headphones on almost any bus ride.

We had another great week doing work for Mercy ministries. I got to user a jackhammer to do work with drainage pipes at the "Big House," a three-story complex being used to house orphans. I made a special connection with a young boy named Dima, an orphan who has been living at the house for only two weeks. We watched Shrek together in Russian and ever since he has loved to interact with me. We also had the privilege of working for a local orphanage for children aged from newborn to three years old in on Thursday.  

We said goodbye to our friends in Vladimir and headed out to Moscow early Saturday morning. Chills went down my spine as I walked through Red Square. I was able to see Lenin's real body, which has been preserved since his death. It looked very similar to a wax sculpture, but the experience was still quite memorable. I enjoyed touring St. Basil's Cathedral, but really did not become aware of its true beauty until I returned on Sunday night. A tour of the Kremlin was also incredible, as I saw the largest cannon never fired and the biggest bell never rung. We stayed at a hotel that housed many of the Olympians during the 1980- Summer Games in Moscow.

After a great worship service with our group on Sunday morning, I headed out to the largest flea market in all of Russia, and perhaps Europe, for some serious shopping. While some of the information regarding what I purchased is classified (Xmas gifts), I did manage to buy a replica 1982 Soviet hockey jersey. As stated earlier, I headed out to Red Square to see how it looked at night and was thoroughly pleased.

I have really enjoyed my time in Russia, especially Moscow. One interesting concept that I have yet to figure out is the citizen's view of Lenin and Stalin. There are sculptures and murals of these leaders everywhere where I wasn't really expecting there to be. I even saw two Stalin and Lenin look-a-likes at a market on Saturday. I'm not sure if these glorification are for tourist or if they are the genuine views of the Russian people. I have noticed that Lenin is glorified more for ending Tsardom and Stalin is revered by fewer people.

While I truly wish that I could spend more time in Moscow, my excitement for Turkey continues to grow. We will we staying in Istanbul and Ankara during our time there over the next two weeks.