As conflict continues to dominate the headlines in Israel, it can be easy to miss the quieter, deeply personal ways God is at work. It is helpful to hear the stories behind the story, the stories of what God is doing through the faithful servants we serve. 

Through SGA-supported ministry, local Russian-speaking congregations are faithfully reaching people with the hope of the Gospel—even in the midst of uncertainty, displacement, and spiritual struggle.

For many in Israel today, especially Russian-speaking families who have arrived over decades or fled more recent crises, life carries layers of hardship. Some have come from regions affected by war, only to find themselves facing new challenges.

Yet through the faithful witness of believers, God is drawing men and women to Himself, restoring lives, and building His church. What follows is a firsthand report from Pastor Maxim—and two simple, powerful testimonies of how God is at work in Israel through the faithfulness of His people and the support of friends like you.

Peace to you, dear friends!

All the members of the Word of Truth Church sincerely thank you for your support during this difficult time in Israel. At the same time, we rejoice in the Lord and want to testify that Jesus keeps us in His hand, and to Him belongs all glory and praise. We have begun to put your support into action in our lives, and I would like to share with you two short stories.

In this photo you see our brother in Christ, Valentin.

Valentin came to faith about 12 years ago. At that time he received the Lord, was baptized in water, and became part of the life of the church. However, after some time, he drifted away and returned to his former way of life. About a year and a half ago, Valentin arrived in the city where our church is located. There he entered a rehabilitation center where the main emphasis is placed on studying the Word of God and restoring a person’s relationship with the Lord.

During this time, Valentin renewed his faith and began rebuilding his relationship with Christ. After this restoration, Valentin expressed a sincere desire to become part of our church community. We were deeply grateful to the Lord and rejoiced that Jesus had touched our brother’s heart and led him to join us so that together we could grow in the knowledge of Jesus Christ and serve Him. Today Valentin is a member of our church.

In this photo you see our brother Dima.

Dima first heard about Jesus Christ when he was still a teenager. However, the course of his life led him in a different direction, and at that time he did not follow the Lord. Many years passed, and today Dima is already in his fifties. We thank and praise the Lord that, at this stage of his life, Dima has opened his heart to Jesus Christ. Now he is sincerely seeking to grow in his faith.

Dima faithfully attends all the church gatherings, actively prepares to receive water baptism, and expresses a deep desire to serve the Lord Jesus Christ with his life. We are truly grateful to God that such a brother has become part of our community, and we rejoice to walk together with him in faith and fellowship.

Dear brothers and sisters, once again, we sincerely thank you for your support and kindness. Your help is a great encouragement to our community during this time. We kindly ask you to remember us in your prayers, and we pray that the Lord will richly bless each one of you. May the Lord reward you according to His grace and goodness.

With the love of Christ.