Is it always Cold in Siberia?

Siberia has what they call an extreme continental climate, that means that in the Summer it gets very hot and in the Winter very cold. The Northern part of Siberia stays colder in the summer of course, but where we live in Novosibirsk the summer temperatures get up in to the 30's centigrade (90's Farenheight). We do have a long winter and snow is usually on the ground from at least November through to April.

Is it difficult to buy things in the Shops?

The situation with shopping is much better now. A good selection of both Russian and imported goods are now available in many stores. There are less choices between brands than in some countries, but you can get most things. Certainly essential food items are always available. Many imported goods became more expensive in Rouble terms after the currency devaluated against the dollar, this means that for Russians earning Roubles some imported things are hard to buy.

Do you have to stand in line for everything?

The lines that are always associated with Russia were caused by the economic system at the time and are mainly a thing of the past. Stores have begun to understand the need to serve the customer and increasing competition has weeded out some of the worst stores.

How does the state treat the Christians and churches?

Freedom to (believe or not to) is a constitutional right in Russia. There is also freedom to gather together with others of similar beliefs. There are however some restrictions on what groups of believers can and cannot do. A New law passed in 1997 restricts which religious groups can receive official registration. Without being registered a group cannot meet in public buildings, conduct evangelism, or print anything. The restrictions apply to any group formed less than 15 years ago. In practice this law has not yet come into effect and it is difficult to say how it will effect churches and missions, many have found ways around the new law.

If you would like to ask a question then e-mail me!