Rev. Igor Krutogolov with prisoners who were converted to Christ.

Especially in Russia, it is well known that the correctional system does not live up to  its task. Unfortunately, correctional facility leaders do not realize the importance of the service of priests (or chaplains as known in the US and Europe) in each institution where the prisoners cannot psychologically and spiritually help themselves.

Today we are allowed only one visit to each prison per week for Bible study.  But surely it is an improvement in a country where only 15 years ago people were imprisoned just for spreading the Gospel. But we make our efforts and prayers to God so that we will have the opportunity for prison ministry every day. After petitioning the prison administration for permission to have prisoners attend Bible study and prayers, we were allowed visits to the high security prison in the Fornosovo, Leningradskaya, area.

We now have a small community of 20 believers, and all of them regularly attend our meetings and Bible studies. We started our worship services with only singing and a sermon, but we plan to offer communion with bread and wine soon. These are people who want to be baptized.

We urgently need your support to continue our ministry.  For as little as $200 a month, we can provide room and board for a former prisoner. $400 a month will provide for his or her room and board as well as continued improvements on our half-way house property.  Vitally needed is an improved septic system and an expanded dormitory.

Chaplain Igor Krutogolov