2016 launched a new era of persecution for the Russian Church. Anti-terrorist laws went into effect … hammering down on our frontline workers’ freedom to evangelize outside of churches in this spiritually dark nation.

Petitioning God for a Heart Change

Today, believers who speak of Jesus are breaking the law and at risk for imprisonment or deportation at a moment’s notice.

In response to this change in the spiritual climate, East-West’s Russian Field Leader visited our missionaries and national partners living in the country. During his stay, these local workers were called in to meet with Russian officials.

A Leader’s Heart

It wasn’t wise for the field leader to attend the meeting, but he stayed in close proximity, listening and praying for the group’s interactions in the room next door.

He struggled being left out of the conversation until he heard one of the local believers take a bold step of faith.

Witnessing Transformation Through Prayer

Despite the new evangelism restrictions, the national partner shared the gospel with the government official. The field leader understood the risk that both were taking in discussing faith and fervently prayed for both the gospel sharer and hearer.

And God faithfully responded to the field leader’s petitions. The Holy Spirit transformed the heart of the official … drawing him to believe in Christ despite his former allegiance to the Russian government.