Background
Over the past 20 years, millions of Slavic immigrant families have settled in the U.S., resulting in the establishment of thousands of Slavic churches. These churches face the challenge of developing strong leadership while overcoming language and cultural differences. Second generation children are drawn away from their church and family as they are attracted to the secular Western lifestyle that surrounds them. As a result, these Slavic churches have often struggled to survive.
Three years ago, the Lord brought Ion Cheptene to St. Louis where he became involved with a Russian church. Ultimately, that church partnered with a local Evangelical Free Church, in suburban Webster Groves. Ion’s vision for ILT was born out of this experience.
That vision is to influence ethnic, primarily Slavic, communities for Christ by helping plant new churches and encouraging healthy patterns in existing U.S. churches; assisting them to develop a heart for reaching their homelands; and traveling internationally to similarly influence other communities.
Focus
ILT focuses on bilingual next-generation leaders who can help these churches develop English speaking services – a key to long-term viability. Another key is to connect ethnic leaders with E. Free or other like-minded churches in their local communities which can come alongside them in their transition. As part of their ministry to others, these Slavic churches will be encouraged to reach their EasternEuropean/Eurasian homelands with the gospel of Christ.
The national ILT ministry field currently includes churches in CA (SD, LA, SF, Sacramento), OR (Portland), WA (Vancouver, Seattle, Spokane), PA (Philadelphia), TX (Houston), FL (Hollywood, Naples), GA (Atlanta), OH (Columbus), TN (Cleveland), MO (St Louis, Sedalia, Jefferson City, Lake of the Ozarks) and IL (Chicago).
The international ILT ministry field includes all 15 former Soviet republics, Europe (England, Poland, Finland, Serbia, Macedonia), the Middle East and Asia (Iran, Iraq, Egypt and the many “stans”)
Approach
The ILT will continue to use the proven discipleship multiplication approach employed by Ion to grow his existing network of disciple makers. This involves developing “father/son” mentoring relationships until the “son” becomes a “brother” and partner in ministry. ILT will also use the following equipping methods:
- Seminars and Conferences
- Camps and Retreats
- Outreach Events
- Sport Ministry
- International Skype Bible Studies
