An Active Youth Group in the Middle of Siberia
Six years ago, in the small town of Bogotol– which is literally in the middle of Siberia– a work began. Mission Possible got to be part of the early stages of what is now a thriving ministry and youth group. Activities are led by Ivan and Elena, who work with a team of volunteers to organize a program for children and teens and help families in need.
A variety of resources are made available to the community. The small activity center hosts sewing classes and a laundry room for families to use. Children and teens are taught new hobbies, taken on outings, and have Christian Club regularly. Friendship and instruction have borne good fruit. The young people are actively involved and help organize events such as Christian film nights and holiday festivities for the town. They’ve reached out to their friends and neighbors, and now the youth group has about fifty members! Ania, Boris, Katia, and Igor – whom you will meet in this story – are active youth group members.
Working with Boris’s family
“We first met Boris (pictured with Ania in the photo above)when he was seven years old,” said Elena, an MP leader. “His family circumstances were very sad. The parents were divorced, and both were using drugs. Boris lived with his mother. Five years ago, he joined our summer activities and was involved for a while. He later got caught up in bad company, but we kept in touch with his family. Eventually, Boris thought seriously about the direction his life was taking. He decided to connect with us again for a youth outing, and that trip was a turning point for him. He now comes regularly to the youth group. The Bible studies and opportunities to connect with others have meant a lot to him, and he has invited his other friends to join him. Boris also prays for his mother that she would stop abusing substances.”
Katia, 17: “As an adult, I want to do something for others.”
Katia lives in a small village about twenty miles from the city. She grew up with two brothers in a very poor family. “We met Katia’s family a few years ago,” said Elena. “We invited her and her brothers to an event we organized for children of families in crisis. Since then, she has been actively involved and reaches out to new children. Katia has a dream: ‘When I grow up, I would like to help homeless people. I’m happy when I can do something for others.’”
Ania was invited by a friend and now invites others.
“I grew up in a big family. It was sometimes difficult at home, and I was lonely at school,” 16-year-old Ania told us. “Three years ago, a boy asked me to join a youth group. When I went, I found the atmosphere to be welcoming and everyone very friendly." “That’s how I got to know Jesus and made a lot of friends. I have also been given tasks where I can serve God and my neighbors. I hope that my whole family will come to faith in Christ.” Elena added, “Ania invited her brother Igor to join the group, but after a while, he dropped out and started smoking with friends and using foul language. During the Easter holiday, we took our group to a big youth event, and Igor came along. There, he was deeply touched by God. Now, he is involved in everything. He told his friends about his life change and has brought them to youth group, too!”
