PETROZAVODSK – From May 1 to 3, the 16th annual “Depth” conference for children’s and youth ministers of the Russian Church of Christians of Evangelical Faith in the Northwestern Federal District was held in Petrozavodsk. This year, the host church was New Life Church, led by Bishop Fyodor Akimenko.
The conference slogan was taken from the words of Jesus in the Gospel of Matthew: “Let the children come to Me and do not hinder them” (Matthew, 19). The main focus of the event was ministry to the younger generation, the spiritual responsibility of adults, and finding practical approaches for effective interaction with children and teenagers.
Around 250 participants attended the conference, representing nine regions and 11 regional associations of the Russian Church of Christians of Evangelical Faith. Along with ministers, parents also took part in the event.
The conference program included preaching sessions from five speakers, two prayer evenings, and 24 practical workshops covering various aspects of children’s and youth ministry. Special attention was given to fellowship and collaborative discussion of current challenges. Dedicated open spaces for parents allowed participants from different regions to discuss issues related to raising and spiritually mentoring children.
One of the key elements of the program was a series of case studies focused on difficult situations arising in relationships between ministers, parents, and children. This format enabled participants to examine challenges from different perspectives and work together toward practical solutions. The conference also featured interviews with ministers and presentations of regional ministry teams in a special segment called the “Hall of God’s Glory.”
Organizers emphasized that the unique feature of the “Depth” Conference is the opportunity not only to listen, but also to actively participate, ask questions, and receive practical answers. According to participants, the conference brought some spiritual renewal, strengthening, and inspiration for further ministry to children and teenagers.
“Our hearts are filled with God’s revelations. We want to leave a meaningful mark in the lives of the children entrusted to us, not merely leave traces behind. We will continue to seek God’s guidance so that we may become a blessing, not an obstacle, to God’s work in the hearts of children and teenagers,” participants shared.
The Russian Church of Christians of Evangelical Faith/Pentecostals
