The history of Ukraine is one of great suffering and hardship. During World War II, over 8 million people died. Many more were killed under Stalin and Communism, including Christians. In 1991, Ukraine became independent from the Soviet Union, and a multi-party democratic system was created. Poverty, rather than riches, has been the result for most, because of corruption and violent crime. Many people, however, are open to the good news of the gospel because of their sufferings. Evangelical churches have doubled since 1991. Anatoly joined OAC in 2001, and is our National Director for Ukraine. He is married to Julia, who is from Crimea. Both are Ukrainians and graduates from Kiev Christian University (a Baptist Bible College).
Anatoly's grandfather was killed by the Nazis for hiding Jews during WWII, and his father was baptized in a forest by the underground church. Because his relatives suffered persecution, the whole family was offered American citizenship. All went to the US except Anatoly, who chose to stay and reach his countrymen for Christ. Working closely with the Baptist Union, OAC is training church teams to evangelize in their areas. People hearing the Good News of salvation through the public proclamation of the gospel in plazas, in open air film meetings shown in villages, in Cultural Centers previously used for Communist propaganda, and in orphanages. Public schools are allowing students to watch our films on drugs, alcoholism, and Aids, which are problems now plaguing Ukraine, and students are challenged to choose God's way in life through faith in Christ. Invitations for outreaches and training are coming in from pastors all over Ukraine. Fruit is coming into the Church. Anatoly is a member of the OAC Ukraine Board of Trustees, and is also overseen by the OAC - Overseas Ministries. Because the words “Open Air Campaigners” cannot be translated into the language, OAC is known and registered as "Worldwide Proclamation" in Ukraine.
Formerly under Communism, open hearts take in the message of Christ. |
Training and taking out Bible College students
for evangelism |
Orphans hearing the Good News |
Anatoly teaching a seminar on frontline evangelism |
Downtown Kiev, a crossroads for many nations |
Reaching children and parents in a park |
Downtown Kiev |
School assembly with the help of a Canadian team |
"How shall they hear without a preacher" |
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