In many of the small towns and villages in the Slavic world, life is simple but strenuous. Many families still live off the land cultivating different crops and raising different animals. Preparing for winter occupies a great deal of time with canning vegetables and stewing fruits for homemade juice. Consistent work often is difficult to find; therefore, “living off the land” is extremely necessary for survival.

Children assist their parents in daily chores, and routines of rural life keep the family unit extremely close-knitted. When older, the young people travel to larger cities to study and usually stay after education, since very few jobs can be found in their small hometowns.

Church becomes an integral part of life in the small towns and villages. Everyone knows their neighbors, and the importance of “shining” as genuine examples for Christ is extremely necessary. Temptations are not as alluring in the villages; therefore, it is vital that parents (and the church) teach their children how to be stable and strong in the knowledge of the Christian Faith so that when they travel to the larger cities, the vices of the world will not lure them away from their beliefs.

While Slavic Missionary Service understands that it is important to build churches in large cities in the Slavic world, it is likewise extremely important to assist believers in small towns and villages. To continue communicating the Gospel in these small communities, it is vital for the Christian group to have contacts with other believers, as well as people who will pray and provide for them when the needs are too difficult to maintain.

Therefore, pray that God will give wisdom to the leadership of SMS so that they will utilize general gifts in the best possible way. Not everyone can be reached, rescued or recompensed by SMS, but everyone placed in the pathway of SMS must receive the opportunity to hear the good news of salvation and repent of sin. Your partnership helps SMS with this great task!