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Saransk Teachers
By Yelena Surguy

More than a decade has passed since the perestroika, and yet Russian schools continue in their attempt to prevent the integration of Christianity into schools. However, two diligent teachers, Ludmilla Grigorevna and Elena Evgenevna, fight this tradition in Saransk, the post-communist capital of the Republic of Mordovia.

Ludmilla, a veteran teacher at high school 12, was recently baptized with her husband Victor after repenting during last year's youth camp. Last summer she urged her English class to attend an American English Camp to enhance their speaking skills. She accompanied the students at the parents' request and repented after hearing the gospel. Continuing in her spiritual thirst, she invited American missionaries to speak to her class, saying that it is a very special treat for English students to meet an American. Unfortunately, she experienced persecution from the principal because of her integration of Christianity into the school. She loves her job but in tears said she was willing to lose it for Jesus. This summer she brought more students to camp.

Through Ludmilla's friends and colleagues Elena Evgenevna from the Pedagogical Institute met the missionaries. This summer she was invited to the camp and to the interpreters' weekly meetings. She attended every meeting and accepted Jesus as her personal savior. Her students that attended this year's camp are planning to sing the Christian songs at the institute once classes resume.

Pray for these zealous teachers, who evangelize in public schools.