Podcast: Download (Duration: 4:51 — 3.3MB)
God's guidance in a land that does not exist
Mission Svet in Rîbnița is celebrating its 35th anniversary. Throughout all these years, the Lord has guided and helped them. He has strengthened the brothers and sisters in their work and given them the power to persevere despite many difficulties.
I myself was in Moldova from September 10th to 19th. My original plan was simply to stay in the country, but the passing of our brother Peter Novorok necessitated a change of plans. My flight was from Germany to Moldova, but due to his death, I traveled on to Ukraine to attend Peter's funeral. Brother Waldemar Brauer from Bremen flew out around the same time with a local brother to participate in the anniversary celebration.
Ernst-Ludwig Homann, Waldemar Brauer, Viktor Kulak (Bishop of Moldavia), Alexander Kovalchuk (Transnistria) (from left to right)
The unique aspect of Ribnitz-Damstadt is that the city is not located in Moldova, but in the region of Transnistria – a country that is not recognized by almost all states, including Moldova itself. This political situation presents particular challenges for our brothers and sisters. Due to the lack of official recognition, it is very difficult to provide material or financial assistance.
Currently, the Moldovan government is blocking all official channels for delivering humanitarian aid to Transnistria, meaning that support can only reach the region indirectly, through private contacts or small vehicles. And yet, Mission Svet has been operating for 35 years.
Bishop Igor Gladun explains the exhibition.
Founding and activities of the mission
The mission was founded in 1990 and has grown into a diverse ministry with several branches. Of particular importance is the Bible school, which has trained approximately 7,000 students over the years, including many current pastors, youth leaders, choir directors, and ministers to the Lord. Graduates now serve in various countries and cities around the world: in Moldova, Ukraine, and the USA. They spread the light of the Gospel and strengthen the church of Christ. The mission's community is deeply grateful to God for this time, during which so much of value has been accomplished.
- Conducting evangelistic events
- Support for needy families, orphans and widows
- Education and instruction of youth
- Conducting children's and youth group camps
- Distribution of religious literature
- Conducting Bible studies
- Service in prisons and hospitals
Throughout these years, the close and fruitful collaboration with Mission Stephanus in Germany has been of particular importance. This partnership has enabled the expansion of services, the provision of aid to those in need, and the implementation of numerous projects.
Attending the anniversary celebration
I had the privilege of attending the closing and anniversary service and conveying warm greetings to the mission on behalf of CDH Stephanus. I offered our blessing to the brothers. I am grateful to God for the fellowship I experienced there and for His grace that He leads this congregation despite the difficult circumstances in Transnistria. Such anniversaries are of great significance to us for two reasons:
Firstly, we look back with gratitude on all that God has done over the years. Let us remember the entire path the Lord has led us along all these years (cf. Deuteronomy 8:2)!
On the other hand, we are also looking ahead to see how we can continue and support this work together in the coming years. Today, we continue this ministry with hope and confidence. Our goal is for the light of the Gospel to shine even brighter and reach new hearts in Rîbnița and beyond.
“Therefore, my beloved brothers, stand firm, let nothing move you, always abounding in the work of the Lord, because you know that in the Lord your labor is not in vain!” (1 Corinthians 15:58).
Nikolaus Wall
Chairman of CDH Stephanus
