Russia (MNN) ― Post Soviet Russia has a young generation growing up amid serious social and economic problems and a declining population.
Thousands of kids each year are placed in orphanages or abandoned to the streets to make their own way. More than 700,000 live in one of the government-operated orphanages. It's been estimated that another 2.5 million are homeless, living on the streets.
Many are victimized by organized crime, prostitution, or the pornography industry. Often the kids come from homes broken by alcoholism and domestic violence. Suicide rates are high among Russia's youth. Drinking and drug use are on the rise and so are the crime rates typically associated with substance abuse.
Without a moral compass to guide them into adulthood, Russia's future looks grim. However, the story isn't all bad. According to Slavic Gospel Association, the youth are searching for and are receptive to truth. When they see the testimony of someone truly living with Christ and for Christ, they embrace the hope found in a loving God with passion and commitment.
SGA supports the work of church partners in Russia as they reach out to the homeless and orphaned youth. The Good News Church in the city of Ufa meets in the basement of the police station.
The church body is made up of kids who are desperate to survive. Many steal, rob and use drugs. They are feared by many, but they respond to the simplicity of love. Victor and Natasha Slobodyan back up their words with deeds. Five times a week, they feed the kids along with telling them about God.
It's not an easy task, and yet the Slobodyans faithfully minister to kids on the street and coordinate a summer camp. They are on the front lines of a spiritual battle and are asking for prayer support as they share the hope of Christ.
