Central Asia, a region rich in history and culture, is home to diverse ethnic groups and languages. Yet, beneath its stunning landscapes and ancient cities lies a deep spiritual need – the need for the gospel. Many people have never heard the name of Jesus, and the few churches that do exist face immense challenges. Persecution, isolation, and constant government surveillance are daily realities for these believers. The harvest in Central Asia is plentiful, but we have just one mission worker.
The pioneer leader
The team in Central Asia aims to make Jesus known to the local community and to reach across borders into several other neighbouring nations. The city where the team serves is a strategic location, serving as a crossroads to many of the most unreached nations in the world.
Esther, a native of the country, has devoted her life to serving her own people in Central Asia. She faces constant government surveillance and experiences the dangers of living in a post-Soviet country. Despite this, Esther is partnering with local believers to support the growth and development of the church. Equipped to encourage, she serves as a mentor to those who are new to their faith.
Local church growth
The gospel has only recently begun to take root in Central Asia. When a few local people first placed their faith in Christ, they started a small, unofficial church in secret. This church teaches God’s word in the mother tongue of those who, until recently, had never even seen a Bible. Despite strict government surveillance, this hidden community has grown exponentially to 80 first-generation Jesus-followers. The growth of this church is crucial to making disciples of Jesus Christ.
Future Plans
As Esther continues her work, she prays daily for new team members to join her. The people of Central Asia are hungry for the truth, and they need more messengers to bring it to them. Esther’s story is a testament to the impact one person can have, but it also highlights the urgent need for more mission workers in Central Asia.
The team plans to open a guesthouse that will serve as a hub for outreach and community building. They also hope to organize youth retreats and vocational training programs, providing extensive skills and spiritual guidance to the younger generation of believers. These future projects will allow the team to reach more communities and bring hope to even more people in Central Asia. Without new team members, these plans cannot happen.
Will you go?
Matthew 28 says go – that means you. The call to missions is for all who believe in the transformational power of the gospel. Will you answer the call? Will you join Esther in bringing the message of Jesus Christ to Central Asia? The need is great, and the time is now. This forgotten community needs an opportunity to hear about Jesus Christ.
Pray with Us:
- For many new mission workers to join the team in Central Asia.
- For the local church, that God would give them strength in persecution.
- That God would open the hearts and minds of the people in this community.
