Why Armenia?

Pastor G. asked if I would speak at the Pastors and Church Leaders Conference in Armenia. He had been planning this event for months and was excited about his response from pastors throughout eastern Europe.​

Armenia? Where is Armenia, I thought? I admit I had to find it on the map.

Standing on the stage a year later, I thought: Lord, why am I here? Tears began to flow, and I experienced the same heartfelt connection I had sensed on my first trip to the former Soviet Union, years ago…

‍

DAVID vs. Goliath

"This predominately Christian nation is about the land size of Maryland, surrounded by peoples and ideologies that desire to see their destruction. The odds are stacked against Armenia. But, like David, they have a strong faith in God who defies all odds!"

What's Happened​

• 9/27/20 – Azerbaijan (backed by Turkey) launched a missile and aerial attack on Artsakh, targeting civilians.
• 9/29/20 – The attack expands to Armenia, prompting martial law in Artsakh and Armenia.

‍

Call to prayer

The greatest, and most often requested need at this time, is for PRAYER!

Please allow the Lord to lead you in prayer for these people and the regions where they live, worship, and fight for the Christian faith. Below are some prayer points to help you intercede.  

• Comfort for families who have lost their sons and daughters

• Wisdom for the Armenian leaders

• Healing for wounded soldiers and civilians

• Resources to care for those in need (food, clothing, and shelter)

• Strength and courage for our pastors and church leaders who faithfully provide moral and spiritual support

• Protection against further attempts to destroy the existence of Armenia

“I lift up my eyes to the mountains—where does my help come from?  My help comes from the LORD, the Maker of heaven and earth.”
(Psalm 121:1)

‍

Urgent need

The suffering in this small country is devastating. The need for food, clothing, and shelter has never been greater. We are partnering with ministries, humanitarian groups, and local church pastors to meet these pressing needs.  Many families have lost everything.

Civilians are displaced, some are missing. The needs are larger than the churches and leaders can bear.  You can help them.

100% (One-Hundred Percent) of your tax-deductible gift will go to provide food, clothing, and shelter for families displaced by this conflict.

‍

March 18th, 2024

ARMENIA UPDATE REPORT!

I just returned from a blessed trip to Armenia, where I witnessed firsthand the powerful work God is doing through our ministry and His faithful servants in Armenia.
‍
One highlight of the trip was my visit with the refugees in the Artsakh region of Armenia. A number of the women and children came to the church to meet with me. They shared their struggles to find employment and pay rent. Their faces were sad, despite their efforts to smile. Yet after speaking of their hardships, they were quick to tell me, “Although we have struggles, we’re thankful that God saved us and that we were not killed.” One woman who lost her sons and daughters said: “I’m blessed to care for my grandchildren.” It was a strong reminder to me of how urgent it is when faced with struggles to remember to be thankful for the things God has spared us from.

These refugees know that RPM is assisting. They expressed to me how thankful they are for the work we are doing and that we haven’t forgotten them. Please continue to pray for these dear people.
‍
In remote villages like Bardzruni and Zedeha, I had the privilege of sharing the Gospel with eager hearts hungry for encouragement. Despite the challenging journey through potholed roads and snow-covered mountains, the warmth and openness of the people touched my heart. In Zedeha, a brother expressed in broken English, "Thank you for coming to our village. We seldom have anyone come to see us and teach us the Bible." Their thirst for God's Word was palpable, and it was a joy to witness their receptiveness.

The leaders in the Armenian churches gave me encouraging updates. Pastor Khachik leadership of Living Faith Church in Artashat was full of people, many of them young, who worshiped God with sincerity. It is evident that this vibrant group will drive the Gospel forward in their community.

Pastor Natalia shared the struggles of her church’s building situation. Forced to leave their rented space, they were blessed with a property for sale that included an unfinished building. Through God's provision, they now own this property and have obtained construction permits. Though the building is not yet complete, they will begin worshiping there this month. It's a testament to God's faithfulness, providing step by step for these churches, even in the seemingly small details. Their faith and courage continue to grow as they navigate these challenges.

As I reflect on these experiences (and more),  I am reminded of the unwavering faith of our brothers and sisters in Armenia. They inspire us with their dedication to spreading the Gospel and trusting in God's provision. Let us continue to lift them up in prayer and support (click here to see how you can contribute to the Armenia fund) as they carry out His work.
         
Blessings,          
Richard Parrish