Russia Ministry Network

The History of the Pentecostal Church in Russia

The first Pentecostal congregations in Russia were established in 1907 on what is now the territory of Finland, but were at that time a part of the Russian empire. In Saint Petersburg, the capital at that time, the first congregations were formed in 1913. By the early 1920's the Pentecostal beliefs and teaching had spread over much of Russia. Much of the credit for this phenomenal growth belongs to I. E. Voronaev, who played a significant role in uniting separate churches to form the Pentecostal Union. In 1926 the first Ukrainian Congress of Pentecostals was held and the organization was named the "Ukrainian Union of Christians of Evangelical Faith". (UCEF) By 1927 UCEF had 350 churches with over 17,000 members. As a result of persecution in the late 1920's UCEF became an underground movement. In 1930’s Voronaev as well as most leading brothers were arrested and later became Christian martyrs of 20th century. (complete story)

Prophesy about the Great Revival in Russia

Hudson Taylor, famous British missionary to China and founder of the China Inland Mission, had an amazing vision in 1889 of a great national spiritual awakening in Russia that will touch Europe before Christ's return. These are his words:

"I saw in this vision a great war that encompasses the world. I saw this war recess and then start again, actually being two wars [WWI & WWII]. After this I saw much unrest and revolts that will affect many nations. I saw in some places spiritual awakenings. In Russia I saw there will come a general all-encompassing, national spiritual awakening, so great that there could never be another like it. From Russia, I saw the awakening spread to many European countries. Then I saw an all-out awakening, followed by the second coming of Christ."

Our Vision for Russia

  • Be a spiritual center for the Evangelical churches in Russia, guiding the people of God with spiritual authority, with knowledge and wisdom received from Jesus Christ.
  • Direct the efforts of God's people in fulfilling the Great Commission of Jesus Christ: "Go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Ghost, teaching them to obey all that I have commanded you. (Mat.28: 19-20)
  • Let our voice be heard in society confronting the evil and lawlessness around us, to proclaim the lordship of Jesus Christ in every area of our life and His imminent return.
  • Assist in the planting, spiritual strengthening, and growth of the churches.
  • Protect the purity of Christian doctrine and follow the doctrinal practice of Pentecost.
  • Develop all forms and means of spiritual education. Each church member is encouraged to study. Pastors and ministers should have the proper education.
  • Assist in building projects of Russian churches.
  • Support and strengthen the social ministries as well as women's, youth and children ministries.
  • Develop the publishing base and Mass Media ministries.
  • Form and strengthen spiritual bonds with the regional branches, local churches, mission organizations and unions.
  • Strengthen and develop international connections with foreign church organizations, movements, missions and churches.

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