From March 6 to 13, Head Bishop of the Russian Church of Christians of Evangelical Faith (RCCEF), Eduard Grabovenko, together with a team, visited the northern regions of Russia—the Nenets Autonomous Okrug and the Komi Republic. This trip was not only about ministry but also became a deep spiritual experience, giving insight into the lives of churches and ministers serving in the harsh conditions of the North.
“For the first time, I visited the city of Naryan-Mar,” said Eduard Grabovenko. “A young church called New Testament is serving there, led by Pastor Ilya Shevchenko. The church needs support and care. I thank God for those who choose to go to the North—people who open their hearts to serve others and lead them to Christ.”
Meeting people, praying together, and seeing the real needs of local ministers became a special blessing for the team. It was important not only to encourage the churches but also to pray for the whole region, where ministry requires sacrifice and commitment.
The team then traveled to Pechora, where Pastor Grant Burnadze serves. The church there is growing, and God’s blessing is clearly visible. A new house of prayer is being developed: the current building is being expanded, and an additional property has been purchased.
Even though the service took place on a weekday, many people attended—the building was full. This shows a strong spiritual hunger in the region.
The team also visited several churches in the Komi Republic and met with Bishop Fyodor Velichko and other ministers. These meetings helped them better understand the scale of ministry in this challenging area.
“We would really like to return and possibly hold a festival dedicated to the 150th anniversary of the Synodal Bible translation. If the opportunity comes, I will gladly return,” said the Head Bishop.
One of the most meaningful parts of the trip was meeting reindeer herders. The team visited Brother Boris Ledkov again, although they could not reach other camps despite invitations. About ten herders traveled to attend a church service in Vorkuta, showing a real desire for God even in remote places.
Many people living in these harsh conditions face serious challenges. Without God, some turn to harmful ways of coping, such as alcohol. But the Gospel brings real change—it transforms lives and restores hope. These are powerful testimonies of God’s work.
The journey was not easy. The road to Pechora was traveled in extreme cold, around -40°C. The team faced technical problems when parts of the vehicle froze, causing a coolant leak. With help from local believers, they were able to fix the problem and continue.
Travel also included trains and snowmobiles. The snowmobile rides were especially difficult due to strong winds and freezing temperatures.
“All the warm clothes I usually rely on were not enough—I was freezing completely. If the brothers had not given me their mittens, I might have injured my hands. After just a few minutes, I could no longer feel them. I realized I was not prepared for such conditions. The people there are heroes to me,” Eduard shared.
This experience helped the team better understand the reality of life and ministry in the North. The strength and dedication of local believers deserve great respect.
Despite all the challenges, God protected the team and blessed every meeting. After the trip, there was a deep sense of gratitude for those who serve in the North, reaching people who have not yet heard the Gospel.
Pastors shared that the messages and encouragement came at just the right time and became a real support for many.
The team included Pastors Vyacheslav Safronov and Fyodor Bykov, Deacons Alexander Zakharov and Alexander Nikolaev, and Maksim Bykov, who helped with filming.
This journey was a reminder of the cost of ministry and the great value of every person in God’s eyes.
“The North is a place we want to return to—despite the difficulties, for the sake of the people and the work of the Gospel,” Eduard Grabovenko said.
The Russian Church of Christians of Evangelical Faith Pentecostals
