Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS)

Countries: Armenia, Belarus, Kazakhstan, Moldova, Russia, Ukraine, Tajikistan

Description: The fall of communism in the early '90s provided a renewed opportunity for Christianity. Hope is beginning to flourish in the CIS and there has been a widespread increase in churches and church attendance. However, with that increase has come marked conflict between denominations and a resulting distrust and reluctance to work together.

Focused on fostering interdenominational partnerships, Walk Thru the Bible CIS has cultivated a reputation of bringing together denominations and pastors to work for the good of Christians throughout the region. Together, these groups are reaching out to pastors, church leaders, parents, teachers, and students of diverse socio-economic, religious, and cultural backgrounds to ignite a passion for God's Word.

Regional Director: Yuri Shelestun
Born in Kiev to a Christian family, Yuri wanted to enroll in the Institute of Economics, but was denied entry because of his religious status. Christians were not allowed to study at universities, so he studied at a vocational school and became a refrigerator repairman. After the Soviet Union collapsed in 1991, Yuri entered the Ukrainian Bible Seminary and became a missionary. He began teaching Walk Thru the Bible programs to his students as he worked with middle schools.

In 2000 he became the regional director of the CIS. He also earned his Master's of Divinity that same year.

Yuri and his wife, Natasha, have three children: Liza, Benjamin, and David.

2010 Impact:

Trainers:
Pastors & key leaders trained to teach others: 1,830

Live Events:
Total number of people attending live events: 111,772

Broadcasting:
Potential television reach: 52,000,000
Potential radio reach: 1,026,000

Link to regional website: http://www.wtb.kiev.ua/

Quote: "The results of our events are amazing; many people receive Jesus as their personal savior. The families are restored and people learn how to live according to God's Word."