Conflict, persecutions, false religions—yet one thing hasn’t wavered

I will build My church, and the gates of Hell shall not prevail against it (Matthew 16:18).

Through the years, I have had several opportunities to travel over to Russia and her neighboring countries to see firsthand the fruitful ministries of the pastors and churches you help support. The ministry conditions in which they work are varied. Missionary pastors in Central Asia minister in a predominately Islamic context, and their Gospel labors must be carried out very discreetly. Even those nations differ in the level of the pressures that can be encountered by evangelical churches.

In the former Soviet nations of Eastern Europe, there is more freedom for the churches to minister, but they still must be cautious and aware of restrictions. In vast Russia, it all depends on where you are at across the country’s 11 time zones. In many regions, the churches encounter comparatively few issues, but in other places such as the Caucasus where Islam is strong, evangelical church ministry can be very dangerous. The war between Russia and Ukraine has imposed significant dangers for the churches with ongoing bombardment and destruction, yet they carry on with their ministries with joy, dedication, and commitment.

One thing has not changed, and by God’s grace, will not. And that is SGA’s mission of service to these faithful churches and their ministries. Since 1934 when SGA was founded, there have been many events across the former Soviet Union and indeed the world. There have always been wars, skirmishes, disputes, repressions, deprivations, and political upheaval.

But the Lord’s calling on His churches to make disciples and proclaim the Gospel has never changed. The calling He gave to SGA founder Peter Deyneka and our first board of directors on that January day of 1934 has not changed—and that is to serve and equip faithful churches in those lands to accomplish their ministries. Providing Bible training to their pastors and church workers remains priority one. Equipping them with Bibles, Christian literature, theological works, and other resources they need for effective ministry continues on with God’s provision. Supporting faithful missionary pastors in their ministries remains paramount.

Finally, it is as true today as it was 92 years ago—SGA’s faithful partners are vitally important in carrying these ministries forward both in giving and in ongoing prayer. I am so thankful for you and what you help accomplish for the glory of Christ!

For our Savior,

Michael Johnson
President