In June 2009, American missionaries Terry (MGNC International Fellowship Director) and his wife Terri Young (Good News Seminary Director) will celebrate their tenth anniversary of ministering overseas in the former Soviet Union, reports Rick Renner Ministries. Reflecting on these past years, Terry commented, "The longer we live and minister in Russia, the more we realize how God has truly sent us here and given us the right spiritual equipment to make a difference in this land. To describe this people and culture would take a book to explain, and perhaps someday that book will come about. Suffice it to say, being here is a very complicated, challenging, and ultimately rewarding adventure."
"But God spoke to our hearts years ago about coming here," Terry continued, "and He continues to lead us today. Many people have asked us when we might return to the U.S. to stay. All we know for now is that God hasn't said anything about leaving Russia. Our work here is not yet finished."
"The Lord is moving greatly in this nation. Only a few years ago, it was almost impossible for people to get their hands on a Bible in Russia. In fact, some Christians had not seen a Bible since the war with Nazi Germany. But thanks to the grace of God and the commitment of many dedicated believers, this terrible situation no longer exists in this nation that spans 11 time zones.
"As we work and live with the Russian people every day of the week, we see firsthand their great passion for the Lord and their burning desire to serve Him with all their hearts. God is moving mightily in this country, and if we as believers work hard and pray, no obstacle can stand in the way.
"Russia is a great nation," Terry stressed, "and God has great things planned for its people. When Jesus hung on that Roman Cross, He saw Russia. His blood was shed for this nation; His Spirit was poured out for the people of this land.
"After living in Russia for nearly a decade," Terry concluded, "Terri and I have shown that we are here for the long haul. There are seminary students to train and a large church in Moscow that we help pastor. And now we are starting an English language church service with Pastor Rick. There is so much yet to do."
"God has a plan for Russia and we are overjoyed to be a small part of the modern-day outpouring here. Only eternity will tell the whole story!"