Summer Camp in Gomel, Belarus

Pray that God will fill the Slavic believers with a hunger for His Word: "Desire the sincere milk of the Word" (1 Peter 2:2), and a spirit of prayer: "Pray without ceasing" (1 Thessalonians 5:17). Ask God to call many young men and women to serve Him sacrificially and sincerely in places of leadership. Pray that some will choose to serve in other Slavic countries as missionaries. Intercede for the Christian leadership in Eastern Europe that they will withstand the powers of darkness and remain stable in their spiritual roles.

After the successful outcome of teaching almost 500 students the "Conversational English Course" in Gomel, Belarus, the leadership decided to conduct a three-day summer camp for interested students following the last day of class. Three American teachers remained to assist the four leaders with the program, which would center upon three questions: Who am I, who is my neighbor and who is God?

Each day would include a time of Bible reading, a time of building team camaraderie and a time for an English lesson. Eighteen students ranging from 17 to 40 years old attended this unique adventure. For some, it would be the first time ever sleeping in tents. A qualified volunteer staff from the Central Church of Gomel assisted in the preparation of meals and various other duties. After a busy day of activities, the group would gather around the camp fire in the evening to sing and discuss their opinions concerning the events during the day.

Everyone agreed that the experience truly was enjoyable and enlightening. Some campers acknowledged that the English lessons were extremely helpful, but the fellowship with new acquaintances was far more advantageous. Gratitude is expressed to the leadership and volunteers of the Central Church for their cooperation in making this first ESL summer camp a social and spiritual success! Hopefully, this new ministry will continue next year with more participation from the teachers who travel from America to teach the Conversational English Course.

"Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you."

Matthew 7:7

Pray that the Gospel will reach the millions in the Slavic countries that have not yet heard what Christ has done for them. Many small cities and towns still do not have an official place of worship. Ask God to help the Slavic churches be effective witnesses in their neighborhoods. Pray that souls will continue to be saved, baptized and discipled through the ministries of the church. Pray that the Holy Spirit powerfully and persistently will convict men of sin and lead many to believe that Jesus Christ is the Savior of the world.