Prison ministry
Sharing the Gospel and providing humanitarian aid to prisoners in former countries once under the grip of communist Soviet Union, remains a vital part of our ministry.
Many prisoners are young boys. Others are young men who had lost hope when their countries fell into economic collapse. Half way housing and Christian education is also provided for those who have accepted the Lord Jesus as their personal savior.
Gorodok Juvenile Prison
The Gorodok Juvenile Facility in Ukraine is a prison for young boys ages 11-14 who have committed crimes or broken the law. Many of them lack parental love, have a rough upbringing on the streets, begging for food. They begin with petty crimes and later become involved with theft, robbery and sometimes even murder.
These troublesome youth find themselves handcuffed, brought to a detention centre, then behind locked gates of this prison-like facility. Despite rough beginnings, these kids still have open hearts.
“To reach them they need someone who can open the door of their hearts with the right set of keys,” says Pastor Misha.
Sport Ministry
For many years we have supported a very effective sport ministry in Ukraine. When Ukraine separated from the Soviet Union it was plunged into great turmoil. Factories and shops closed leaving many jobless. Youth were turning to drugs, alcohol and suicide. Pastor Tyoma’s vision to minister to these youth to get them out of despair and off the streets started with one small street football team in Kiev. Today it has grown into a Christian sports league with over 100 teams. Thousands of young people are being reached through this ministry, as they receive the good news of the Gospel and hope of salvation.
In 2009 the Christian Sports League which has won many games was recognized and received Honors from the Ukrainian Government – an unprecedented first for a Christian sports team.
Youth Ministries
Through Youth Leadership training seminars, Door of Hope International is providing practical, hands-on training to youth leaders in Eastern Europe and Ukraine, teaching them the most effective methods of reaching neglected generations with the Good News of Jesus Christ.
