Journey Of Faith Cultural Differences

World Relief printed a handbook in 1989 for families volunteering to resettle Russian-speaking refugees. Among the tips:

“They do not generally participate in sports or enjoy them as entertainment. They do not consider sports sinful, but aimless - time which could be spent in more valuable pursuits.

“Poetry is a special form of expression to all Soviet ethnic groups … While English-speaking Christians put music to Christian lyrics, Soviets savor the rhythm and rhyme of words alone, and many enjoy writing poetry.

“A young man and woman attracted to each other are encouraged to seriously consider marriage and not delay a decision. Engagements are short and binding. A young man who breaks an engagement without the girl’s consent can be excommunicated from the congregation.

“A Soviet will not hesitate to ask what salary level one is at, a definite social gaffe in American society. If a Soviet woman is complimented on her attractive scarf, she may remove it and offer it to the person who made the compliment.”