What's New - Spring 2005

RACU Hosts “Day of Humor” Party for Local Youth

In 1562, Pope Gregory introduced a new calendar for the Christian world, and the new year fell on January first. Prior to this, the start of the new year had been observed on April first. Some people refused to accept the new calendar and continued to celebrate the new year on April first. It was celebrated in much the same way as it is today, with parties and dancing into the late hours of the night. These backward folk, who refused to accept the new calendar, were labeled as "fools" by the general populace. They were ridiculed, sent on "fools errands," and made the butt of jokes. This is the origin of April Fool's Day – known in Russia as the Day of Humor.

On March 31, the eve of this international funfest, RACU organized a special event for Christian youth in Moscow. More than 150 young people from different churches came to the club “Rotonda” to have fun and enjoy fellowship with new and old friends. Special guests at the party were the music band “Miratvorets,” the dancing group “Ichtus,” and a famous Moscow DJ Elf. The program was lead by a youth pastor of the Moscow Second Baptist church, who entertained people with jokes and fun games. The party gifts (RACU mugs, t-shirts, and calendars), laughter, and good spirits were great promotional tools for RACU – and appropriate for this “Day of Humor” celebration!

The three hours flew by; leaving the party, one could hear the appreciation and energy of the young party guests: “That was cool and so much fun,” “It was a great idea to invite all these people and organize such an event,” “Please do something like this again!” Some people came to the party with their non-believing friends, who were surprised to see people enjoying themselves in this kind of setting: “We’ve never been to any parties like this. Beer and smoking is our usual format. But this party is different and so much fun. Thanks for organizing it.”

RACU staff believe the party helped to strengthen the university’s relationship with local churches and young people. Sometimes simple, or “foolish,” entertainment can be the best way to reach out to the community! But God hath chosen the foolish things of the world to confound the wise; and God hath chosen the weak things of the world to confound the things which are mighty. -- 1 Cor 1:27