Mission Update: Armenia

I send greetings to our brothers and sisters—our dear friends—in Armenia. It took a visit to that country and seven months for the book God’s Workshop to be re-born in Eastern Armenian. On April 22, the new translation of the book, Asdzo Arestanotse, was presented to about 170 leaders and others at a special dedication service at the Armenian Brotherhood Church of Yerevan.

Five thousand copies were dedicated to God and to His service. I had the privilege of sending a short video message that was presented to those who attended the celebration. The following is the English translation of my message to them:

My dearly beloved brothers and sisters, “we always thank God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, when we pray for you, because we have heard of your faith in Christ Jesus and of the love you have for all the saints.” (Col. 1:3-4)

When, for the first time, my wife and I came to Armenia, we didn’t for one moment imagine that God had His own plans for us. You, dear brothers and sisters, indicated your desire to have my book, God’s Workshop, translated into Eastern Armenian because you wanted to use it as a tool to reach many, to help them in their spiritual journeys. I felt that it was God’s voice speaking to me through you.

And here we are now. Today, 5,000 books are ready to be used for the glory of God. I express my heartfelt appreciation to all those who helped make this happen. May God bless you richly.

Dear members of the family of God, my wish is that this book may help you in your spiritual growth. Also, by giving this book to others, you will help them find Jesus and His salvation, and in that way you would have obeyed our Lord Jesus who said, “Therefore, go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I
have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.” (Matthew 28:19-20)

Dear brethren, your monetary gifts will be used only in Armenia, for the spreading of His Word and for His glory. And, with your help, many will find Jesus, the spring of Living Water.

May God bless you all and may His peace fill your hearts.

Since the celebration, I have received many calls and e-mails expressing joy about the printing of the books, and all the comments have been very positive and encouraging.

Pastor Joseph Hovsepian

To view a video of the celebration event, combined with photos and the message from Pastor Joseph, please visit http://vimeo.com/40821759.