In these days of great emphasis on technology, transportation and techniques, it is good to remember that God still uses men! He does not fill machines, motors or mechanisms with the Holy Spirit; He fills men. Methods and gadgets are important only when there are important men behind them; and only when those men are utterly dedicated to the Lord and His work can those tactics and technical apparatus bring glory to God.

Slavic Missionary Service was founded in 1933 by a man who wanted to share his faith, finances and future with his native people in the former Soviet Union. That man was Ivan Neprash, and God filled him with His Spirit to accomplish spiritual fruit in his homeland. Through SMS (formerly known as Russian Missionary Society), Ivan gathered funds to reach the Slavic world with the Gospel. Many different outreaches were established to accomplish the Great Commission.

When God called Ivan Neprash home to heaven in 1958, He then filled Alex Leonovich with His Spirit to continue the work of Slavic Missionary Service. While maintaining the “bridge” with the Slavic world, Alex concentrated on the radio broadcasting ministry in order to advance the Gospel into the Soviet countries. Not until the dissolution of the Soviet Union would Alex see how spiritually effective was this ministry, as many believers expressed gratitude for his radio messages that helped them to repent of their sins and to grow in their Christian faith.

When God called Alex Leonovich home to heaven in 2013, He then filled Rob Zapotoski with His Spirit to maintain and advance the outreaches of SMS. Concentrating on the countries of Russia, Ukraine, Belarus and Moldova, SMS has been instrumental in equipping national workers to serve the Lord in many various capacities. Rob has been able to assist these workers and others through the avenues of teaching, training and side-by-side ministry.

For eighty-five years, SMS has provided financial support, spiritual literature and Biblical guidance to the Slavic world and to the Slavic people who live in the United States. Ministries and projects have also reached other countries in Eastern Europe and even South America. And the leaders of SMS understand that the work is not finished. Still, there are thousands who need to hear the “Good News” of salvation; and technology, transportation and techniques can continue to be utilized in order to advance the message of the Gospel.

Therefore, the workers and leaders are grateful that SMS has been able to serve the Slavic communities and countries for eighty-five years through the power of the Holy Spirit. Until the Lord Jesus Christ returns, please pray that SMS will continue to flourish so that many more may be added to the true church of God. And consider becoming a partner with SMS through prayer and financial support.