For most children here in North America, the summer months mean lots of fun. In addition to a three-month break from school, they might take a family vacation or road trip, or get involved in other activities to occupy their time.
For many evangelical churches across the former Soviet Union, the months of June through August mean Summer Camp ministry. During the communist years, the authorities would hold what were known as Pioneer Camps, where children took part in the usual camp activities, but also were taught communist ideology. After the fall of communism, those camps dwindled away, leaving parents looking for ways to keep their children occupied. This is where the churches stepped in, beginning to hold summer camp sessions throughout the summer where kids could have fun, and most importantly of all, hear the Gospel and see the love of Christ modeled before them. SGA has been blessed and privileged to help support these church-based summer camps for many years now, and none of it would be possible without your prayers and faithful support.
As I consider these outreaches along with the other SGA ministries you support, I can’t help but wonder how many children will enjoy eternity with Christ because the Lord drew them to Himself at a summer camp.
How many orphans have, or will, come to Christ through the SGA-supported Orphans Reborn ministry?
As thousands of pastors have gone through and graduated from an SGA-supported seminary or Bible institute in the former Soviet Union, how many have, or will, come to Christ in faith through their diligent, tireless ministry?
What will be the final tally of men, women, and children whom the Lord drew to Himself through loving Compassion Ministry—faithful churches delivering urgent help for their physical needs while sharing how they can have their greatest need met—the need for a Savior?
Only in eternity will we know this for certain. But what a glorious day of rejoicing that will be.
In the days ahead, please intercede in advance for all the summer’s outreaches—asking for God’s faithful provision and for many hearts to be prepared to hear of His love. Thank you for all that you do!
For our Savior,
Michael Johnson
President