One man walked 15 miles to a service to request that on the next mission trip they visit his small town. In the cities, youth are undertaking street evangelism. Their methods include inviting others to see Christian films. The personal touch of Christian care and concern is being felt both in and through the church, Minor said. For example, churches are setting up counseling centers for alcoholics and drug addicts.
Alcoholism is one of the oldest and most widespread diseases in Russia.
A crucial need exists for pastoral and leadership training, Minor said. The Russia United Methodist Theological Seminary, begun in Moscow in 1994, has 24 students, nine of whom will graduate this spring. Sixteen have graduated to date, with 13 serving churches and others going on to further study. The further study is aimed at building an indigenous faculty for the seminary and other educational efforts in local churches. Russia could be one of the most powerful Christian nations of the future, said James H. Billington, librarian of the U.S. Congress, noted author, and scholar of Russian history and culture.