Purple Frog - Listening. Learning. Loving @ Blogspot
From Misery to Mystery @ Wordpress
Lydia's first book is an account of the Revival of the Methodist church in Russia - and the situation out of which it was brought back to life - is filled with images we have come to expect (food lines, passport hassles, travel nightmares) and observations that might surprise us (the whispers of schoolchildren about their cherished Easter traditions, the use of Christian names in generation after generation of Russian people).
When Lydia Istomina became the pastor of a small United Methodist congregation, she brought with her a past she was only beginning to understand. But very quickly the spark of that congregation began to glow, and the church was growing and responding to familiar needs and Challenges - prison ministry, school, special education. The story she tells is gripping, heartwarming, realistic, and filled with hope.
"Bringing Hidden Things to Light" is available through Amazon. (click here)
Lydia's second book, "From Misery to Mystery", is a collection of fresh, funny, and insightful stories about the importance of keeping a balance between commitment and family. Major themes are stereotypes, language and cultural barriers, business ethics, parenting, marriage, political correctness, communication, and creativity. Goals for the book: My goal is to help people knocked down by life's circumstances rise up again. This book invites to see life around us through new lenses.
My stories are written with love. They show that every opinion is valued, every culture is unique, and that love is much bigger than our fears, vengeance and prejudices. My desire is also to help both Americans and immigrants replace arrogance with tolerance and patience. I want my stories to stimulate creative imagination and desire to grow. Who is the intended audience? The goals for the reader are to get inspired and empowered by my optimism and passion for life and growth. It is intended for people who find themselves on the crossroad - reviewing their life goals and thinking about change.
"From Misery to MysteryFrom Misery to MysteryFrom Misery to Mystery" is available through Amazon in paperback and new Kindle versions. (click here)