Ivan Gladishko Now With Christ

SGA Prayer Update

Ivan Gladishko, beloved father of SGA Kiev RMC director Sergei Gladishko, went to be with the Lord last week after suffering a stroke in April. We are so thankful for all of you who stood with us in intercession for Ivan, and for Sergei’s family during this difficult time.

Ivan had just celebrated his 80th birthday on March 10, and still served as an active, zealous pastor. Each Sunday, he rode his bicycle to the church and rarely missed services. During the winter, another pastor would give Ivan a ride in the car so he didn’t have to be exposed to the harsh Ukrainian winter so much. It was a major blessing, as Sergei related to us when telling us of his father’s illness.

Sergei had been in the midst of a series of visits to SGA-sponsored missionary pastors when his father became ill, and rushed home immediately to be by his side. We remain, as ever, thankful for Sergei, his family and their example of selfless service to the Lord Jesus Christ.

We would also like to ask you to pray in connection with the aftermath of Ivan’s funeral. As so often happens in the former Soviet Union when a believer goes to be with Christ, the homegoing celebration and remembrance of a godly believer’s life often leads to unforeseen evangelistic opportunities—sometimes days or weeks after the event. Above all, please continue to ask for God’s comfort for Sergei, his wife Irina, and the entire Gladishko family.