Evangelism: Relationships are Key
Last Bell & Evangelism Series, Part I
We’re a service organization meeting many practical needs. But sharing Jesus’ love is woven into everything we do! I recently spoke with staff members Yulia Los and Tanya Krevoruchko about evangelism and Last Bell. Here’s what I learned.
We’re Not the First
Our youth hear about Jesus from many Christian visitors to their orphanages and government summer camps, long before we meet them. One group, now in their early 20s, said that four different churches used to visit. Our oldest orphanage grads have heard about Jesus most of their lives.
We Share on Our Turf, with Our City’s Help
Yulia told me we can’t evangelize openly at city trade schools. So we share the gospel during youth activities, parenting trainings, reunions, and other meetings. We often use our young people’s struggles as a springboard to talk about the God who loves and wants to help them. We also invite guest speakers, like the director of a Christian rehab center. Zhytomyr’s Christians are ready to share Jesus!
Childhood Trauma Presents a Challenge
Yet it’s difficult for orphans to accept God’s love. Tanya shared, “They didn’t have good fathers… they can’t imagine a father’s love could be good.” Rejection and neglect from their past produce feelings of worthlessness and shame. “They believe they can only accept God’s love after they stop smoking or swearing,” said Tanya. Many have learning disabilities, so they need every word of the Bible explained – even modern translations.
Relationships Show Christian Love
Relationships are the key to sharing God’s love. Our youth carefully observe the team’s behavior at the Day Center or during events. They ask, “Why are you doing this? Maybe for a profit?” But one young woman said, “It’s better to spend time with Christians, without alcohol. It’s more joyful than with people who drink a lot.” This openness is an opportunity to show the gospel’s transforming power.
Orphanage Graduates Change Their Community
One of our oldest orphanage grads, Natasha*, has heard about Jesus for years from our staff and others. She recently came to us for marriage advice, considering divorce because she was so frustrated. Our staff listened and discussed her concerns, and she decided instead to start attending church and spend time with Christian families. Natasha has watched other orphan couples become Christians, attend church together, and transform their lives and marriages. That’s the best testament to the power of God’s love!
Someone else may plant the seed. Often our job is to water and water and water. It may be years before we see the “fruit” of our labor. But we trust the Father’s love for orphans and the Holy Spirit’s timing. Thank you for praying our youth will heal from trauma and be open to God!
*Name changed to protect her privacy