Christmas in Russia in 2014

In spite of Russia’s more recent history of communism and atheism, the nation has a long, rich tradition steeped in Christian culture. That becomes especially evident during major religious holidays.

“Christmas is a significant holiday in Russia,” says Rev. Sergei Sosedkin, Russian outreach leader for Back to God Ministries International (BTGMI).

However, because of current financial and political issues, this year’s Christmas celebration is different for people in both Russia and Ukraine, where BTGMI has a large audience.

“There's a lot of talk about upcoming economic calamities,” Sosedkin explains. “The ongoing military conflict in Ukraine makes many people sad and scared. Local currencies have collapsed in both Russia and Ukraine. Many businesses had to cancel traditional Christmas and New Year parties. Rolling energy cuts mean that many of our friends in Ukraine will be celebrating the holidays without electricity.”

Sensitive to the situation in Eastern Europe, the BTGMI Russian ministry team has been working hard to produce hopeful Christmas messages.

“In such a context, the gospel message of Christmas reverberates with a special power,” says Sosedkin. “The Christmas story is the testimony of God's love for us and his miraculous intervention in the world of greed and violence. God enters our broken world to save us. The Prince of Peace gives his special peace and hope.”

Throughout this season, BTGMI Russian broadcasts and web blogs point to God's son who delivers his people even in the midst of very difficult circumstances.

BTGMI  has also produced short video Christmas messages for local Christian satellite TV stations that reaches both believers and unbelievers.

Rev. Sosedkin asks, “Pray for our ministry, that the light of the Gospel message will bring hope and joy to people in Eastern Europe.”