(left to right) Mariam Grigorian, Sanadroug Bedros Hajian, Pastor Joseph Hovsepian, Ann-Margret Hovsepian

Although we have been in Armenia less than 24 hours we wanted to take a moment to check in with you and thank you again for your prayers and words of encouragement.

Today we took care of some basic errands to make sure we have everything we need, but we also had a couple of brief visits and are starting to organize our schedule for the next 20 days.

Pastor Joseph Hovsepia and Arayik Sardaryan

Pastor Joseph Hovsepian

One thing that stands out for us so far is a young man we saw during our walk to the supermarket. He was quite large (tall and heavy) but more noticeable were his legs — swollen to probably double their normal size, with a large open sore on the back of the lower left leg. He walked with crutches, dragging that left foot along, asking passers-by for help. We were able to offer him something and he blessed us saying, “God blesses those who bless others.”

We saw him again after we came out of the supermarket and he was pleading with people: “Even if you can’t help me, please don’t dismiss (or ignore) me.” How heartbreaking!

The condition of his legs makes us doubt this young man has long to live. We pray that he will not suffer much and that he will receive some kindness from those around him.

We anticipate hearing many more sad stories during our stay here, but also look forward to witnessing God’s transforming power and love in people’s lives.

Pastor Joseph Hovsepian – Take a look at the latest technology he uses in Armenia. A flip phone!