120th Anniversary of the UECB Novocherkassk Church

Novocherkassk itself, founded in 1805 as the capital of the Don Cossacks, marked its own 220th anniversary on the same day. Throughout its history, the Novocherkassk Evangelical Christian Baptist Church (UECB) has been a beacon and a conduit of God's blessing for the city. It continues to fulfill this function today.

The celebratory Sunday worship service was attended by guests from neighboring churches: Andrey Datsenko, UECB Senior Pastor of the the Rostov Oblast and Kalmykia; Viktor Ignatenkov, UECB VP; and local television reporters. The city administration was represented by Vladislav Gorda, Head of the Information and Analytical Department.

The festive service was led by Pastor Vladimir Romanenko. Throughout the service, numerous Christian hymns and songs were performed by the choir and various musical groups. Edifying messages were delivered by Romanenko, Datsenko, and Ignatenkov. The church also received greetings from Vladimir Drok and Bishop Pavel Kolesnichenko of the Churches of Christians of Evangelical Faith.

Vladislav Gorda congratulated the church on behalf of the city administration and presented  Romanenko with a letter of gratitude signed by the Acting Head of the Novocherkassk City Administration, Viktor Sinyugin.

The service program also included a presentation on the history of the local church, prepared by Alexander Yanchenko. At the end of the service, the attending pastors, together with the entire congregation, offered a prayer for the blessing of the church, the city of Novocherkassk, the Rostov Oblast, and all of Russia.

In the afternoon, Ignatenkov, along with Romanenko, attended a service at the Donskoy district church of Novocherkassk. This small community warmly welcomed their guest from Moscow, and after the service, fellowship continued in a relaxed, family atmosphere.

On Monday, Ignatenkov, Datsenko, Drok, and Romanenko visited the administration of the Rostov and Novocherkassk Diocese of the Russian Orthodox Church. The men were received by Father Dmitry. This marked the first meeting between representatives of the two confessions in the Rostov Oblast, and it proved to be very cordial and productive, resulting in good Christian relations with a mutual desire to maintain and develop them. Following the official part, Father Dmitry conducted a tour of the Cathedral.

On the same day, a meeting took place between the UECB Rostov/Kalmykia pastors and Romanenko. This meeting addressed issues concerning the church life and activities of the Rostov association. Such meetings with the Union leadership are always beneficial for local church ministers, offering encouragement and inspiration. This occasion was no exception. We praise God for His continued work in that region.