Europe: Lithuania
Mission History
During the 200 years prior to 1990, Lithuania was independent for only 20 years. Despite occupation by the Russian Empire, Nazi Germany and the Soviet Union, Lithuanians maintained their distinctive language, culture and national identity. The same year that this group of less than 4 million people reasserted their independence, the idea of Lithuania Christian College (LCC) was born. Three men, a Lithuanian, a German and a Canadian, asked themselves and each other how they could make an impact on this nation for Christ in the context of its rebirth. They believed that only Christ could offer a firm foundation for the future of the nation. They started LCC.
Lithuania Christian College is a Christian liberal arts college. English is the language of instruction and so far most faculty and staff have been from North America. Over 400 students study business, psychology, English literature and other subjects in the context of Christian faith. Only about 20 percent of entering students arrive with a strong commitment to Christ. Many come to faith during their studies an they see the relevance of Christian truth to their lives and work and come to know committed Christian faculty and staff.
Christian Reformed World Missions has sent missionaries to Lithuania to take part in this challenging and exciting ministry.
Support
The most important gift you can give missionaries is a daily prayer for their lives and work. At any given time Christian Reformed World Missions supports over 200 long-term and short-term missionaries located in over 20 countries around the world. Through partnerships, our work extends to over 30 countries. These people have been called, commissioned, and sent by Christian Reformed churches to represent our devotion to Jesus Christ, and to urge others to accept His offer of salvation.
Prayer
Here’s a partial list of items to pray for on behalf of missionaries:
- emotional needs
- physical needs
- relationships with other missionaries
- relationships with nationals
- relationship with God
- effective ministry
- family life
Financial support is also crucial for the ongoing work of bringing the Good News around the world. Support can be given for specific missionaries, or specific projects can be found in the “Project Giving Guide” at your church or available from the World Missions offices in either the United States or Canada.
The Christian Reformed World Missions Team in Lithuania
Luke and Lena Theule, Partners, LCC (Read Luke's blog)