God has a plan
Interview with BPI student Andrejs Zumbergs (see his profile), 2008.

Tell me about your journey to God!

Since the age of 16 I was looking for meaning in life. I often talked to our school's psychologist, and was actively interested in philosophy.  There were two very hard years. In the second part of my 12th year at school I got more and more disappointed in the conclusions I had come to and philosophy in general. At the same time I understood more and more that only a Creator can give any meaning to life, although before I did not even want to hear about God. Under my psychologist's influence I asked my mom to give me a Bible as my graduation present. She did it with joy because she was a believer. On the day I received the Bible, I understood that I will stop searching, and will base my life on the Bible, but that was only a decision made in my mind. Five months later came heart decision when I fell before God and on my knees asked for forgiveness for my sins, and I gave all my future life to Him. From that day with great power and love He has changed my heart and my life, and I am very thankful to Him for that.

How did you come to BPI?

God put in my heart desire to serve with His Word; He has led me to BPI and will continue to lead me.

What is your present ministry?

Right now I serve the youth of Dundaga baptist church. Every Saturday we get together for Bible studies and conversations about God. Sometimes we sing. Together we grow in faith. Recently we have started playing volleyball. I think and pray about the best way to speak to the lost youth of Dundaga.

What are your ministry plans for the future?

At this point I cannot picture myself as a pastor but I believe that God has a wonderful plan that is prepared just for me. I would be glad to serve youth after graduating from BPI as well.

Tell me about the most useful you have learned or understood during these months studying at BPI? 
I appreciate the most the way Jesus changes my character and strengthens our relationships because on these changes depends my ability to understand what I am being taught and serve with what I have understood.

Recently you had an opportunity to participate in Senior days. What are your observations?
On Senior days in Talsi I saw the readiness of American seniors to talk to Latvian seniors about prayer, life with Jesus, and about how to serve regardless of your age. Atmosphere there was quite open and friendly. Language and culture barriers were insignificant. We had a good recreation time with table games.

What would be your encouragement to the seniors of Latvian churches?

Let's love one another and let's be alert praying for our country and government, for Christ's church and for all that are lost. What do you think is the best motivator for starting a new ministry? "I will pray for you..."

What helped you take responsibility for your present ministry?

God's caring heart. He encouraged our pastor Andis Smelte to walk next to me from the very beginning, to help with advice and suggestions. Andis has been irreplaceable helper and strengthener. Thanks to Him!

How can we pray for you best?
Above all I need love, closer relationship with Jesus and pure heart.