Far East Broadcasting Network: Christ to the World

Dear Partners,
I am writing to share an urgent prayer request. We just received shocking news from the Russian government:

Your license to broadcast on AM radio in St. Petersburg and
Moscow will not be renewed as of April 16, 2016.

For more than a decade, these two AM stations have been our primary channels to share the Gospel with a potential audience of more than twenty million men, women, and children in Russia. You have rejoiced with us through the years as millions have responded and shared their life-changing testimonies. Now is the time to pray with us, for the millions more at risk of never hearing the Gospel of Jesus Christ.
Using unofficial channels, we discovered that the pressure comes from particular people at the top who are highly influential; that’s all I am at liberty to share. We are convinced these forces are specifically targeting FEBC Russia because we are an evangelical organization that reaches so many with the Gospel.
Ironically, this news came as we were reviewing our Strategic Plan in Moscow to determine how to implement a gradual switch from AM to FM, online, mobile app and satellite broadcasting over the next three years that will prove to be even more effective and efficient. The challenge is that the government shutdown will force this 3-year transition to take place in one month– which is why we are asking for your prayers right now:

√ For wisdom in condensing a 3-year transition from AM radio to just 1
√ Energy for our staff as additional work is added to their daily tasks.
√ For the most effective ways to employ new cell phone apps, satellite and
Internet broadcasting.
√ For the Lord’s protection from opposing forces in the government.
√ If it’s the Lord’s will, for a miracle to renew our AM license on April 16.
√ Wisdom in how to continue to work with the government to save at least
Moscow and FM stations that could also be affected by this action.

This shocking news simply speeds up the implementation of our plan to reach more people with the Gospel. Today, more than half the people who listen to radio in Russia listen online or through cell phone apps. FEBC-Russia has more than 100,000 regular online/cell phone listeners (250,000 in St. Petersburg).
Our desire is for God’s will to be done. Above all, we want to be responsive to God’s leading. Thank you for covering us in your prayers.

In Christ,
Victor Akhterov, Director of FEBC-Russia and Ukraine