The Power of Just Showing Up
Our mission team in Russia is reaching out in public places with unique ministry outreach.
Take a look at what they’re doing to evangelize in public in Kurgan Victory Park, Russia.
Our mission team is out there, not hiding, just making a statement about themselves as believers. That’s so courageous! This isn’t only for those who are just passing by.
Aleksey, our mission coordinator, says that the youth have a wonderful experience—communicating, inviting, and handing out brochures.
Also, they are planning a three-day youth retreat during the winter break.
That is where the real deep work happens. You can escape the noise and distractions to hear what God has to say. It helps a lot to have that quiet time.
The Joy of New Faces
Our youth ministry in Ketovo, Russia
Non-believing young people began to come to youth meetings with enthusiasm. David, the youth leader, and his team are really putting their hearts into it, which is great.
They’re focusing on Philippians 2:4: “Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others.”
This verse says a lot. You become a blessing when you shift your focus outward. That is how a simple home group transforms into a popular spot.
Church on Sunday. They were totally devoted, and they made choices that would last forever! The real joy comes from seeing someone believe and accept Jesus into their heart. They talked and talked, had tea, and became close friends. That’s what makes a community. That’s family right there.
Creative Outreach: Leaving the Bad
Our missionary, Ella Polyakova, in Kurgan is getting really creative.
A Home Picnic was held to see the students off. Movie nights turned into a Bible study group. That connection with those people was so heartwarming.
But the “Leave the bad, take the good” project really stood out to me.
Everyone has things they’d like to change, don’t they? The thing that’s bugging you, or the stuff you know you shouldn’t do. So, they write down the bad stuff and stick it in a box. It’s like you’re giving up, in person.
Next, they choose a verse, reflect on it, and then they say a prayer. You see how the Lord is working in their hearts. It’s helpful, touching, and really spiritual.
Unity and Fellowship
It makes me happy to see teamwork. This youth leaders’ meeting was significant for everyone. We’re not able to do this on our own. We need each other to share, pray, and grow.
Kurgan, Russia, is on a mission. It’s a beautiful, imperfect, human portrayal of the gospel spreading. It’s a great reminder that no matter where we are, we can be faithful with the gifts God has given us, even when we feel unqualified.
Thank you for your supportive hearts!
Pastor Vitali Yuchkovski