June 26-28, 2026, the 5th Congress of the Evangelical Christian-Baptist Churches was held on the banks of a picturesque river in the Tyumen region. Nearly 400 brothers and sisters gathered outdoors to worship the Lord together!
The main theme of the Tyumen congress was “Your word is truth” (John 17:17). Christ-centered, edifying sermons were delivered in the central tent church, calling people to a life according to the Gospel and personal growth in Christ. Thematic seminars were also held at various locations throughout the base. A highlight was the presence of speakers UECB President Peter Mitskevich, Ural Regional pastor, Igor Maksakov and pastors Legostaev from Orel and Slaby from St. Petersburg.
It’s especially gratifying that the congress was organized by the association itself and the local churches. The Tyumen association is one of the youngest in our All-Russian brotherhood. Its members found salvation during the modern Russian era. And the love and selflessness with which the brothers approached such a large-scale event was a tremendous encouragement to us all. The senior pastor of the region, several ministers, and a dedicated team of volunteers from local churches created an atmosphere of warmth and brotherly love.
The congress also united multiple generations. The children’s work was lovingly led by the Alekseytsev family from Ishim. Many young people and teenagers were present, eagerly absorbing the Word, asking questions, and receiving a powerful spiritual charge. A true church family was born through informal fellowship around the campfire and over shared meals.
The weather was a clear sign of God’s mercy: three days before the convention, forecasters had predicted heavy rains, but the brothers and sisters prayed fervently, and the Lord revealed His power. The entire convention passed without rain, and immediately afterward, the “shifted forecast” descended upon the region in the form of incessant downpours. Talk about encouraging and strengthening of everyone’s faith!
The congress concluded with a great sunday church service and the Lord’s Supper.
Glory to God for His faithfulness, for the young churches burning with the spirit of God, for the children and youth growing in the knowledge of the Truth, and for those who did not spare themselves for the sake of church unity!
