Tuesday, December 25, 2007

Update from the courtroom

Merry Christmas to all family and friends, and thank you all so much for your prayers. We felt the support of so many concerned friends and loved ones today, even though the outcome was not what we had been praying for.

The verdict issued by the judge was deportation. As far as Phyllis was given to understand, that means that when she leaves the country, there will be a stamp put in her passport showing that she cannot be issued a Russian visa for 5 years.

We were not told: leave by this date... However, Phyllis also has no legal right to be here, without a visa.

So, I'll be calling our Christian lawyer friend to see if he considers that we have a chance at appealing the decision. if he agrees to help us, we have ten days to appeal the decision. I will also be going to Vladimir to the regional Migration control for advice. (They will be the ones issuing the exit visas.)

Please pray for wisdom and the ability for us to make decisions quickly. The biggest holidays of the year are getting ready to start, and it's a bad time to be trying to get anything accomplished, in general.

Again, thank you all so much for your prayers, love and support for our family during this difficult time.

20 comments:

Anonymous said...

Sobbing, but still knowing that God is sovereign, and continuing to pray. Much love....

Anonymous said...

We shall continue to pray. Whatever happens, God is in control and has a plan. I know that you are aware of this, but if it were I, the disappointment would be temporarily blinding me to this truth.

We love you, and once the shock wears off, we will be looking forward to seeing what God has for you next.
Love,
Dad (Grandda)

A day in the life... said...

Oh Phyllis - I am crying .. but knowing that God is SoveREIGN and Reigns over all. May you be given much grace & peace. Please let us know anything we can do to help...
much love to all

Anonymous said...

The Lord is close to the brokenhearted; He rescues those whose spirits are crushed..Ps34:18

We will continue to pray for you as you walk this difficult journey.

Love, Pete & Joy

Anonymous said...

My heart weeps with you, because I know that Phyllis has always had Russia on her heart. I do know that God has a reason for this. Looking at the current leadership in Russia I have to wonder if God is protecting your family in some way. Whatever happens, I know that the Lord will sustain you and work through your little family mightily.
Much Love, Lisa

Mrs. Dan said...

God is good... all the time. I am praying that He will comfort your hearts and do a mighty work through this painful setback.

Anonymous said...

Will and Phyllis,

We're praying for you and know that everything will work according to his will and that He has a plan for you all. We love you all.

Mike and Laura

Anonymous said...

Will and Phyllis, We continue to pray that God will comfort you now and reveal His plan to you so you can continue to walk in His light where ever He leads. Who knows what authority needs to hear your reason for being there? Who knows the mysteries of God's plans for us? He will glorify HImself in this because you are laying down your lives in ways you did not even expect. We love you and follow God's directing you with prayer even after moving here to Arkansas. Marie Green and Edith Johnson

Anonymous said...

Will and Phyllis - We love you all very much and are grieving with you... We know how much you both love Russia and the Russian people, both believers and unbelievers. We also know you love the Lord more and know that He continues to lead, guide and love you. We hold you in our thoughts, prayers and hearts from far away.... Baba Julie

DaDaHaZaReJe said...

This is So not the verdict we wanted! We'll be praying throughout the appeal process. Most importantly, we trust the Lord and His plans for you. In our human wisdom it seems crazy for this to be decided this way after Will's amazing experience. Wonder just what the Lord is up to...

Love you!
Dawn, for the Rigels

Anonymous said...

Oh dear... I'm so sorry for this news! We will continue to pray for the requests you have asked here. Praying for favor in trying to get through the next process you must try during the holiday shut down. May the Lord give you comfort and continued wisdom in the days ahead.

During this Christmas season I reminded of Christ's name, Immanuel- God with us!" No matter the outcome He has his best interest for your precious family as well as the people of Russia. God knows the future for both! =)

Keep strong in your faith and perseverance!

Karen G. said...

Oh, Phyllis, I've been following your progress (and waiting), and I, too, prayed for a much different outcome. God's hand is surely still on you and Will--make He give you clear vision and strong leading as you have so many decisions to make.

God bless you all.

Natasha said...
This comment has been removed by the author.
Natasha said...

Phyllis,
My heart is heavy for you! Praying for you and trusting in the One who will work everything for your good,
Natasha Labonté

Agape said...

Oh, no!!! Oh, Phyllis, I am really sad...I am so sorry. I didn't think this could happen. God is with you and will help you. I pray you get a better outcome soon. I do hope you are not totally heartbroken this Christmas season.

Praying, praying, praying!

Lord Jesus Christ, Son of God, Comfort and heal you handmaid, Phyllis and her precious family.

Loving Life said...

Wow!
I really expected the judge to dismiss it all. But I believe too that with leadership there the way it is, perhaps the Lord is protecting you. You will bloom well where ever you are planted! Keep your chins up- we'll continue praying for the Lord to provide the necessary peace and finances to bring you all home soon! Much love Darlin!

Anonymous said...

Phyllis...I will pray fervently about the appeal process you might need to make. I'm so sorry. It's such a tedious and divided world. I hope that this means God has a new great plan for you...and you are on the cusp of some wonderful and great brand new thing. Hold On Tight..He has you in His Hands.

Daisey

Jennifer said...

Phyllis- I was recently reminded by a true friend that God's plan is not always our own; that we are of this world and can not at any one time see what He sees. I pray that His plan will become evident to you sooner rather than later, and am anxious to see how this new chapter in your lives will work to serve Him. I know He has truly wonderful things planned for you, and for Will, and I know that you will continue to be a shining example of His love to all you meet - in Russia, in the US, and around the world! I have truly felt Him working through you in your posts on AOy0 and on your blog. God bless you all. -Jennifer (from AOy0)

Mrs said...

Back from our travels . . . obviously, the judge doesn't know you AT ALL or you wouldn't be asked to leave!

Trusting in the Ruler of all things.

Unknown said...

All things must pass through our Lord's Hands before touching us...we pray for you as HE carries you through these days. His love is tender.