First Church
a place to belong
Pastor Lydia, continued
At the beginning of her ministry in Russia, Lydia served as an instrument of negotiating the US-Russian Aid Airlift in 1992. Lydia’s heart was always divided between preaching the Word and social justice. Her church in Russia started a prison ministry, four soup kitchens, a pre-school, a shelter for troubled teenagers and a medical clinic.
Lydia was on the national radio program "Russian America" in February 2007 twice. She told her life story and also performed her short comedy to Russian speaking immigrants in America and Canada.
Lydia is also an author and editor. Her book "Bringing Hidden Things to Light" (Abingdon Press) describes her way to Christ during the dramatic changes in Russia. Her articles and stories are published in the Methodist magazines and newspapers around the world. Lydia received the SOJOUNER OF TRUTH AWARD for courage and justice in 1992 and ARLON O. EBRIGHT AWARD for leadership. Lydia is the honorary member of the Louisiana Conference UMW since 1991.
Our Pastor is also a singer. She has a CD "Introspection" that tells her faith and life story. Lydia translates her favorite songs from Russian into English. She also writes songs. Presently she is working on her new recording "Whatever Lida Wants". She sings jazz, Latin, Gypsy and classical music. She dedicates all her spare time to strengthen her music talent, taking lessons from UMKC Conservatory, and learning from the local jazz star Everette DeVan. She works hard to meet her goal to send 30% from the proceeds to support the elderly women ministry in her home town in Russia.
Pastor Lydia, continued
