Stories from the Field

Bible Clubs are a week-long program hosted by churches. Through games, songs, lessons, and crafts, children learn about Jesus' love. In 2023, 40 churches in Moldova and Transnistria hosted the Bible Club program. For 10 churches, this was their first time holding Bible Clubs for their community. What used to be only a summer program, churches now see it as an effective way to reach children with clubs meeting over school breaks, Christmas, and other times of the year.

Only 4.7% of the Moldovan population and less than 1% in Transnistria are evangelical believers. As a result, most individuals have not read the Bible or heard the hope of the Gospel. Bible Clubs are one of the few ways churches can actively reach children and their families with the Good News of Jesus in this region.

Through Bible Clubs this past year, more than 2500 children heard the Good News about Jesus and were invited to follow-up programs, mini-clubs, and Sunday services. "We were delighted by the changes seen in the hearts of children and how God worked--It's wonderful," says Oxsana, a Bible Club Leader. "Children asked for Bibles, and I know that some children are reading the Bible now...the most important thing is their growth in their relationship with God." As Lena, our partner and Bible Club Director, said, "The support received from Summit Missions International is a spiritual contribution to the young generation of these countries."

What's New?

• The program is always looking for new host churches and training new leaders to reach more children in cities and villages across Moldova and Transnistria with the Gospel.
• Lena, The Bible Club Director, hopes to purchase a cotton candy and popcorn machine, and a couple of trampolines to lend to churches hosting Bible Clubs--these are rare treats for children from villages.

Summit Missions International began the Bible Club ministry in 1994 and provides full sponsorship of the Bible Club program--teacher training, materials, craft supplies, and all lunches and snacks.