The Great Trek of the Russian Mennonites to Central Asia, 1880-1884, Fred Richard Belk, 1976

place of gathering and refuge. Therefore, he instituted a strict schedule throughout the trip. Driving only on weekdays, the wagon train was awakened each 132 The Great Trek of the Russian Mennonites morning at 3:00 a.m. by the night guard. Fires were started, the 130 horses fed and cared for, everything was loaded on the wagons, breakfast was served, and then a bell summoned those who wished to go to morning worship. Johann Jantzen, the community teacher, would speak the words of a hymn, and then the group would sing after him. This was followed by a brief Scripture reading and prayer on their knees. Strict Schedule of Epp Depending on light and weather conditions, departure was usual- ly between 5:00 and 6:00 a.m. Often it took more than half an hour for the entire train to get moving. In the early days, in fact, there was disorder and pushing toward the front, but that was cor- rected as they continued on their way. Before embarking each day, they rationed water and food in such a way that they could drive until noon before stopping to eat. By 2:00 p.m. they were on their way again and usually drove until just after sunset. When they stopped for camp there was much to do: the horses were looked after, water had to be found, meals were prepared, and wagons were re- packed so beds could be laid out in the wagon bed or on the ground. The bell then sounded for evening worship. Their songs were taken from the New Mennonite Handbook, and prayers were always con- cluded with the Lord’s Prayer and a benediction. On Sunday, the schedule varied somewhat. After sleeping late until 7:00 a.m., they held a brief morning service. Breakfast and chores followed, and then everyone dressed in his best clothes and came to Sunday morning worship. After an hour or so of singing and kneeling in prayer, the message was delivered by Johann Jantzen, and with more singing and praying the worship concluded. In nice weather, Sunday school was held for the children in the after- noon from 2:00 to 3:00 p.m. Following this, the Mennonites held an afternoon service. Claas Epp presented a challenging message on an entire Bible chapter. In the evening again, if the weather cooperated, a song fest was held to the accompaniment of a portable organ, a flute, and a violin. Attracted by the songs, friendly Russians, Tar- tars and Kirghiz wouid flock to the camp for this service. The sing- ing at the service, the participants would later say, was the most in- spiring part of their week. Week after week, this strict schedule was followed no matter what other events were taking place.® Final Treks of 1881 133 Rapid Travel and Its Problems Traveling at a rapid pace, they were anxious to reach their destination as soon as possible. By September 16, they had arrived at Uralsk, about 115 miles from their starting point. Orenburg, 85 miles farther eastward, was reached after five more days of hard driving. While resting at Orenb