Moldova (MNN) — Moldova, nestled between Ukraine and Romania, faces a crisis of population decline. Since the Soviet Union’s collapse, Moldova has seen a population drop of 11.7% — the worst of any post-Soviet state.

This is harming Moldova’s economy, culture, workforce, and even the Church. Eric Mock with Slavic Gospel Association says, “They’re at a time where most young people want to immigrate into Europe.”

Because of this, the Moldovan Church is “finding a shortage of young men who want to be pastors and missionaries, young men and women who will give their lives to ministering in a remote village. It’s a sacrificial calling. It’s a unique calling from God.”

A fruit stand in Chisinau, Moldova. (Photo courtesy of Nikoli Afina/Unsplash)

SGA is beginning more intentional work to serve churches and pastors in Moldova. This would include pastoral and missionary training to raise up more Christian leaders.

Mock says, “On Sunday, many of the pastors actually preach in four churches. There aren’t enough pastors. So starting early in the morning, they go from church to church and preach at each one of the locations on Sundays, and then they try to shepherd these four different churches.

“These guys are completely worn out and hoping to grow, and so we feel like we’ve been raised up for such a time as this.”

Ask the Lord of the harvest to send workers to Moldova ready to preach the Good News.

Mock also requests, “Pray for SGA as we serve the churches. There’s no greater calling for all of us as believers than to see the Gospel advanced through God’s Church.”

Help support SGA’s ministry here!

 

Header photo of Chișinău, Moldova. (Photo courtesy of Vadim Russu/Unsplash)