Russia

The Russian people are struggling under severe economic hardships, social ills and political change. Virginia United Methodists are expressing God’s hope and love to persons in Russia through involvement in the Russia Initiative, a 12-year-old mission effort of our church.

 

The Initiatives of Hope has contributed significantly to the mission of  the Russia Initiative mission  by  supporting the congregational development of two United Methodist churches in Stavropol and Pyatigorsk in Southern Russia.  Stavropol UMC now has a newly constructed church building.  Pyatigorsk UMC continues to need assistance with obtaining a permanent facility.

 

Faith teams, Volunteer In Mission (VIM) work teams, team exchanges and humanitarian assistance to children in orphanages provide meaningful linkages with our Russian partners.   Current endeavors include a Pastoral Mentoring Initiative and the development of a  Supportive Congregation Program whereby each Russian church is supported by a cluster of congregations from our Conference.  The conference offering has been designated for the orphanage support in Russia.