OAC-Overseas Ministries
P.O. Box 4454
St. Augustine, FL 32085
904-827-9715
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Russia
Mikhail Tsvirinko |
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Stretching across 11 time zones between the Baltic and Pacific, the Russia Federation is the world's largest country. It also has the potential of being one of the world's wealthiest nations. Many people, however, live and suffer in poverty. This has been caused by the exploitation of Communism over 70 years, followed by "Mafia" syndicates that seized control of much of the economy.
Though persecuted under Communism, when many of its members were imprisoned or martyred, the church has survived and is growing. Today, evangelical congregations are multiplying as Christians enjoy religious freedom. There is a great need, however, for more evangelism as about 1/3 of the population are agnostics, and only about 1% are evangelical.
OAC Russia was begun with David Gabrielyan in 2002 (preaching in picture above), who along with the Baptist Union, helped us to register with the government in 2005. Later Mikhael Tsvirinko joined our staff, and the base for OAC was moved from near Moscow to the Black Sea region where he lives. Here the weather is warmer, with many tourists coming in the summer. After swimming in the warm waters during the day, they walk the promenades along the beaches during the night. A crowd gathers quickly to watch an OAC program, where our evangelist uses a sketch board with black light to present the gospel. Many of them were forced to live under Communism in the past, and were taught atheism.Now they are presented with a clear message of the gospel, and invited to trust Christ. Church teams help with the counseling.
Working closely with Baptist Union churches, OAC is receiving invitations to hold evangelistic outreaches. Cultural Centers, which were once used under Communism for indoctrinating the people, now make good places for presenting the gospel during the cold the winter months. Programs in public schools, using videos on drugs and values, allow our evangelists to bring the transforming message of Christ to students. Orphanages allow gifts for the children along with a gospel message.
Doors are opening for evangelism in Russia. We thank God for the blood of the martyrs and the prayers of His people.
Misha giving gifts from Samaritan's Purse to orphans after the message | 
Counseling | 
Misha proclaiming the gospel in the open air | 
David Gabrielyan preaching at the Black Sea | 
Presenting Christ in a public school | 
Orphans taking in the Good News | 
Public school assembly | 
Hearts opening to a loving Savior | 
Counseling | 
Follow up |
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