Transforming Society

Dear Friends,

“That is the society transformation we have been talking about, Dave!” Irena said to me excitedly, as we stood in the lobby of the Baptist youth conference last weekend. The puzzled look on my face must have given me away, so she backed up and tried again.

“You know, the JV vision statement. ‘A movement of God among the youth of Eastern Europe that finds its home in the Church and transforms society.’ This is happening in my school!”

I know that vision statement like the back of my hand, but suddenly it connected with the story I was hearing. Irena completed our year long Bible and Ministry internship almost 10 years ago, and now teaches chemistry and English at a school in Prague. She was telling me how 4 of the 6 teachers in her department are now believers, how freely they talk about God in class, and that many of her students are now in small group Bible studies.

“Next week we will take 54 students to the JV training center in Malenovice”, she said, “visit Auschwitz, and spend four days talking about the problem of evil. A holocaust survivor will be leading our discussions. Don’t you see, this is an evangelistic outreach, on school time!”

Irena’s passion brought such joy to my heart. God’s movement does indeed transform society, as His followers become salt and light.

Thank you for the crucial part you play through your gifts and prayers!

Dave Patty
President, Josiah Venture