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Winnipeg, Man.
Latvia student finds peace with God


“In this country, grandparents and parents pray for their children. In my country, children pray for their parents. It is very hard,” said Marina Vancane, an exchange student from Latvia, sharing her faith story during Christian Emphasis Week at Concord College, Winnipeg.

Born into a happy family and considered pretty, Marina enjoyed horses, good grades and many friends.

“I had nothing to complain about,” she said. “Yet the older I became the more unsatisfied with myself and life I became.”

Trying to find peace, she pursued philosophy, karate, yoga and partying. Nothing seemed to quench her thirst for something deeper. “I realized that the discos and the drinking parties would not lead me to the peace I was looking for.”

She then began attending church. Marina hesitated to accept Christ, afraid that her life would become very boring. But one day she and a pastor prayed, and she accepted Christ.

Her parents were not as excited as she was. They were taught that there is no God. Her dad told her that Christianity was for weak people.

“I find it very painful and unnatural that children have to pray for their parents to become Christians. Our parents’ generation is in such a darkness. They have survived the disillusionment of the Soviet system; now they have a tough time to believe something or somebody.

“Talking to people in Latvia and Lithuania, I have heard many stories similar to mine. I pray that God would soften their hearts so that they may be able to see the light of God and accept His love, forgiveness and eternal life.”

Marina was one of five exchange students spending a term at Concord. She hopes to return to Winnipeg one day to complete her education.  – Lori Derksen

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Last modified January 11, 2000.

© 2000 Mennonite Brethren Herald.
Published by the Canadian Conference of MB Churches.
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