What are Churches like in Georgia?
A church recently asked me if I would share what’s happening in the evangelical and full-gospel churches in Georgia (the country, not the state!).
While the official church in Georgia is the Eastern Orthodox church, many evangelical and full-gospel churches are active, growing, and impacting their communities for the cause of Christ.
On my last visit to Georgia, I had the opportunity to speak in several churches. Unlike the stately, ornate, and beautiful structures familiar to the architectural design of cathedrals, most Protestant churches are humble in appearance.
In previous years (when Georgia was under Soviet control), churches would meet in homes to avoid unwanted attraction by the government. At that time, Christianity was frowned upon, and to share your faith openly would most certainly bear severe persecution. As a result, believers often purchased houses and converted them into places of worship to avoid detection.
Today, although there is less harassment by the government, the people are still somewhat cautious. One of the pastors told me, “The current freedom we have [to worship openly], could be short-lived. That’s why we’ve purchased and are converting this house into a church.”
Pastor Tato, who I visited in Georgia, has purchased a house in the city of Lagodechi for his church. This town, which is primarily a Muslim community, is on the border of Russia and Azerbaijan.
The renovations in the house are nearly finished. They have come a very long way on their own, but during my visit I noticed three critical areas that should be addressed before they can truly use the facility for worship.
They need a bathroom for the facility (projected cost $5,000 US).
They need classrooms in the facility (projected cost $15,000 US.
They need chairs for the main auditorium (projected cost $5,000 US).
Pastor Tato and his amazing congregation were a tremendous blessing to me when I visited them earlier this year. While ministering to his congregation in this “house” still under construction, I was reminded: “Surely the presence of the Lord is in this place.”
We have been given so much as Christians in America. It’s important that we recognize our blessings and give back to those who are less fortunate than we are. Gifts to support our brothers and sisters in Eastern Europe can be financial or spiritual.
Consider joining with our growing ministry outreach to places like the nation of Georgia. We are close to completing this project, and your support is most helpful.
As you consider assisting financially, also remember to pray for our pastors and leaders of the churches in Georgia, being thankful for our freedom to worship without harassment.