Back "Home" in Astana

A few days after arriving back in Astana, we visited Baiterik tower.  Elder and Sister Peterson, friends and fellow missionaries, were in Kazakhstan to do audits and training.  They travel to all the Church branches in three Russian missions.  This was our opportunity to do some sightseeing.  We enjoyed the views of Astana from the top of the tower. 

We also visited Nur Astana Mosque, one of the largest in Central Asia.  It was the first time we ventured inside.  Men are required to have their heads covered.  Women must wear a scarf and also have long sleeves and their legs covered.  It's a good thing we wear longer skirts.  Men and women worhip in different areas. The mosque is beautiful inside.

 

 We have been busy working to finish the projects we began before we left Kazakhstan in January. When we visited an orphanage recently, they served a traditional Kazakh meal.  The director and "mothers"  are dedicated to the care and long-term success of the children.