CIS Regional Leadership Conference — Kiev, Ukraine
An On-the-Field Report from Denys Blackmore
In early May, about the time of the springtime thaw, EHC leaders from 10 regions across the CIS met in Kiev, Ukraine for a week of training, strategizing and fellowship. The CIS— Commonwealth of Independent states—comprises nations of the former Soviet Union. In terms of geographical reach, it is EHC’s largest work. Spanning 11 time zones and incorporating scores of cultures and religious traditions, the CIS is as challenging as it is complex. Although it includes fields ready to receive the seed of God’s truth, it also has countless areas of extreme risk—places where one can be prosecuted just for handing out a gospel tract.
With few exceptions, the CIS is a tough field of service that calls for tough men and women who can stand the rigours. This certainly describes those whom I met at the conference. Many of them are young in years but mature in experience; and all of them have extraordinary courage, perseverance and a deep compassion for lost people. Without exception they are driven by a Godly determination to reach every home in their respective areas, no matter how difficult.
It was an unforgettably moving time for me as I listened to the first-hand reports delivered at the conference. I recall one young leader, Dmitri. Though only 23, he is boldly and effectively leading the EHC outreach in the greater St. Petersburg area.
The conference concluded with executive leaders from several denominations in Ukraine joining with us for a time of prayer and sharing. Each of the leaders expressed their high appreciation for how the strategy of EHC is such a blessing to their nation. Many churches are being planted and others growing significantly as home-by-home visitation coupled with gospel literature continues. The Church in Ukraine appears strong and growing.
In many other areas in the CIS, growth is slowed by resistance and in some cases by harsh persecution. One example is a recently-opened ministry in a particular area of Siberia that has come under fire from frivolous lawsuits and false accusations, even from officials within their so-called justice system. Corruption is rampant and threats are commonplace. But these faithful brothers and sisters move forward undaunted and undeterred, trusting God day by day and home by home.
I have to say as well that I was impressed with the creativity of EHC workers in seizing every opportunity to present literature to homes and connect the outreaches to special occasions and events occurring in the various areas. They understand process and persistence.
Since the launch of EHC/CIS in 1990, more than 30 million homes have been visited and over 730,000 people have been followed-up. We must pray that this great work will be strengthened and that more workers will be equipped and sent into this challenging field. From what I have observed over the years, this part of the world has received a disproportionately low level of attention and support. May the Lord help us to help them as they faithfully spread the Gospel to everyone in every place across this vast field.