Christians throughout the former Soviet Union rejoiced together with the collapse of the communist government in 1991. During the following 10 years, evangelical congregations in Russia increased by more than 50 percent.
Yet in the years that followed, poverty, corruption and unemployment plagued the region. The transition from a centrally planned market economy meant the end of the system of guaranteed employment enjoyed throughout Central Asia.
Breakdowns in family structure became the norm as many turned to drugs and alcohol to escape their grim existence.
Christian Aid supports the most effective ministries in the former USSR—many with drug and alcohol rehabilitation centers—that offer hope and healing to those broadsided by life’s hardships.
When the Soviet Empire collapsed about 20 years ago Christian Aid moved quickly to get behind native missionaries who were spreading the gospel of salvation among their people. We joined forces with Slavik who has been for the cause of Christ in Ukraine and other former Soviet states what Billy Graham has been to America....
Orthodox Christianity and Islam are the dominant religions in Central Asia. It is an area where religion, customs, and politics are closely intertwined. Adherents who continue with their traditional rituals and abide by government regulations are left alone. But gospel preaching Christian missionaries are suspect....
For some time now the Middle East and Indonesia have been the hot spots of Islamic belief and way of life. Today Central Asia is about to emerge as the next hot spot, even though it has already had an Islamic heritage for hundreds of years....
The work of Father’s House began in 1996, when Roman Korniyko, a young doctor, started working with the homeless children of Kiev. The conditions in which these children lived troubled his heart. Many had made their homes in cellars, sewers and heating pipes throughout the city....