Belarus (MNN) — Despite numerous challenges facing the Belarusian church, the Gospel remains their source of purpose and hope.

Life’s struggles fade in the light of the Gospel. This is what Belarusian pastors believe as they persevere through obstacles in their ministry!

Eric Mock from Slavic Gospel Association says, “Through compassion ministry over the last eleven years, thousands of people have heard the Gospel, and hundreds have come to faith through this ministry.” Click here to learn more about the compassion ministry.

The obstacles are many — government restrictions, monitoring of sermons and social media, and even arrests of clergy who speak against limits on language or freedoms. Church leaders pray for wisdom as they carefully navigate registration and policy requirements, working hard to maintain peace with their government when possible.

Photo courtesy of Tima Miroshnichenko via Pexels

They persevere by remaining faithful to the Great Commission.

Mock says, “Look behind the curtain and see the faithful believers who, regardless of world events, continue to fulfill the task at hand and declare the Gospel to all people.”

Eric recalls meeting a few pastors from Belarus. He asked them how they respond to these challenges, and one pastor replied,

“That’s between them and God. As for us, we will continue the task before us of declaring the Gospel and making disciples of all people!”

These pastors are less concerned with government policies than with how to carry out the Great Commission in these times. And there are challenges, as many of them serve in two or three churches due to a lack of newly trained pastors.

Slavic Gospel Association supports Belarusian churches and leaders in their growth and humanitarian outreaches. Visit their website to learn more!

Mock adds, “We attempt to provide financial or supplemental support for these men who are out in the villages, because sometimes it’s almost impossible to take care of your family and continue doing ministry.”

Pray for a new generation of pastors to embrace the call and for wisdom as they navigate these sensitive days.

“Let us, in the middle of these chaotic times, preach Christ and Him crucified, so that people would know Christ and make Him known,” Mock encourages.

 

Header photo: Minsk, Belarus (courtesy of Egor Kunovsky via Unsplash)