2 Million Free Bibles Distributed in 36 Nations and 32 Languages in 2024
EEM Gives Glory to God for Eternal Impact of Generous Donors Partnering to Spread Hope in the Region
FORT WORTH, Texas, Jan. 27, 2025 – As requests for Bibles continue to pour in from the 36 nations EEM (Eastern European Mission) is blessed to serve, the ministry gives glory to God that it has been able to fulfill 2 over million requests for free Bibles in 2024 – the most ever in the ministry’s history. EEM has been faithfully serving in this region for more than six decades, distributing free Bibles to all who have need, including smuggling them under the Iron Curtain in the early years.
Just as Bible sales in the U.S. grew in 2024 with more people looking for sources of hope and strength in these challenging times, individuals throughout Eastern Europe and the surrounding regions – especially those impacted by the war in Ukraine – have similarly turned to faith as the only sure foundation in an unsteady world. EEM shares reports of growing church attendance and an openness to Bible education in public schools alongside stories of lives changed as hearts are exposed to God’s Word, often for the very first time in their own language.
“We are grateful to God for what He has done through our donors’ generous giving in 2024,” said EEM President Bob Burckle. “We look forward to continued growth, as despite these amazing numbers, the need still outweighs the provision.”
From a leader in Lithuania being miraculously healed and sharing God’s Word with the nurse who attended him, seeing faith blossom in her life, to dozens of refugees cared for weekly through a ministry in Athens, Greece, to many baptized at partner summer camps, new stories come in every day of how God is working through Bibles being distributed throughout Eastern Europe.
“We are humbled to be a part of the amazing work that God is doing, as we celebrate every day the fact that His Word will accomplish its purposes,” said EEM VP Dirk Smith. “Just imagine, if each Bible given means a new believer welcomed into the Kingdom – which is always our prayer and aim – what joy these numbers bring to our hearts!”
To learn more about EEM, see www.eem.org.
About Eastern European Mission
Eastern European Mission (EEM) was established in 1961 to provide Bibles and Bible-based materials throughout the former communist bloc countries in Eastern Europe. Today, EEM publishes and prints Bibles and New Testaments as well as Teen Bibles, Children’s Bibles and Bible activity books, distributing them through a vast network of partner churches and organizations reaching more than 35 countries in 26 different languages. EEM is an accredited member of ECFA. For more information, visit EEM’s website at www.eem.org/.
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Media Contact:
Jon D. Wilke
Jon@alarryross.com
EEM Celebrates 15 Years of Bibles in Schools, Impacting 4.5 Million Students
Ministry Reaching Eastern Europe with the Word of God
Sees Social and Cultural Transformation
FORT WORTH, Texas, Sep. 17, 2024 — EEM (Eastern European Mission), a ministry that has faithfully provided Bibles and Bible-based materials in former Communist bloc countries for more than 60 years, celebrates 4.5 million Bibles placed in public schools in nations throughout Eastern Europe over the last 15 years. This has only been made possible through efforts such as EEM’s fall Hope campaign from contributions by generous U.S. donors.
In 2009, Ukrainian leaders from diverse religious and political backgrounds approached EEM with a vision to introduce Bibles into public schools, launching a movement that has spread to various nations in Eastern Europe, such as Croatia, Hungary, Moldova and North Macedonia. Like Ukraine, these additional formerly communist-run nations began providing Bibles and teaching Christian values within their schools, leading to notably enhanced student moral and academic development across the region.
“The character transformation we have seen over the last short decade and a half goes beyond the schools,” said EEM President Bob Burckle. “These communities are raising up more civic-minded, more generous, more peaceful members of society — an impact we can’t ignore in light of the turmoil currently happening in this region.”
Today, more than three-fourths of Ukrainian schools have integrated the Word of God into their programs, and the overall impact throughout the Eastern European region is that the Bible is being taught in more than 4,000 public schools, reaching more than 4.5 million students. The Bible classes are offered as an elective, but the majority of the students are interested, with enrollment rates as high as 97% in Ukraine.
“The Word of God may have started in the classrooms here, but it has now changed every other facet of life—and the overall perspective—for the people of Eastern Europe,” adds EEM VP Dirk Smith. “The seeds of hope planted 15 years ago are now yielding obvious Kingdom fruit. It is an absolute honor that we’ve been able to share the Bible with these students whose lives have been subsequently transformed by it.”
To learn more about EEM, visit https://www.eem.org/.
About EEM
EEM (Eastern European Mission) was established in 1961 to provide Bibles and Bible-based materials throughout the former communist bloc countries in Eastern Europe. Today, EEM publishes and prints Bibles and New Testaments as well as Teen Bibles, Children’s Bibles and coloring books, distributing them through a vast network of partner churches and organizations reaching more than 35 countries in more than 25 different languages. Their fall 2024 Hope campaign seeks to provide another 970,000+ Bibles in the region. www.eem.org.
# # #
Media Contact:
A. Larry Ross Communications
Melany Ethridge, 972-267-1111
melany@alarryross.com
EEM Announces 2024 HOPE Campaign: 970,000+ People Will Receive a Bible in their Heart Language
Amid Ongoing Russo-Ukrainian War, Ministry’s Annual Campaign Will Continue Changing Lives through the Word of God
HURST, Texas, Sept. 3, 2024 – EEM (Eastern European Mission), a ministry that has steadfastly worked for more than 62 years to supply free Bibles to Eastern Europe and the surrounding nations, will launch its annual HOPE Campaign from September 1st through December 31st, with the goal of distributing more than 970,000 Bibles and Bible-based materials to people throughout Eastern Europe.
In the midst of the regional hardships currently taking place with the ongoing Russo-Ukrainian War, the word “hope” is a timely title to this campaign’s message: “Hope is a word we use in uncertainty, in big ways and small. Real certainty is found in Jesus Christ, the Living Hope. During the 2024 HOPE Campaign, we have the opportunity to provide this hope to the nations through God’s Word.”
“Each time a Bible is given to someone, a life is changed,” shares Bob Burckle, President of EEM. “And that one person can impact countless lives in sharing the Word of God with others. We have faith that this year’s campaign will transform millions of lives across Eastern Europe.”
With a goal of raising $4.85 million to distribute 970,000+ Bibles and Bible-based materials, EEM is positioned to meet the need for God’s Word in 35+ nations and in 25+ languages, inviting individuals and churches to join the ministry in this year’s campaign. Each $5 donated to the HOPE campaign provides a Bible to someone, a priceless gift with eternal impact.
● $100 = 20 books for 20 people
● $1,000 = 200 books for 200 people
● $5,000 = 1,000 books for 1,000 people
"For the price of a to-go coffee or latte, someone can change the life of another by gifting them with God’s Word,” shares EEM Vice President Dirk Smith. “Just think about what giving up a month of lattes would do! That small sacrifice could impact 30 people for all of eternity.”
EEM’s mission is to give native “heart language” Bible translations to the nations of Eastern Europe and beyond by distributing Bibles and Bible-based materials to individuals, churches, public schools, orphanages, youth camps, hospitals, prisons and rehabilitation institutions. The value of these “heart language” translations resides in the reality that “God speaks our language.”
“When someone reads the Bible for the first time in their language, they realize just how much the God of the universe loves them,” continues Smith. “This is how God’s Word transforms us.”
To join the HOPE Campaign and to learn more, visit: https://www.eem.org/hope/.
About EEM
EEM (Eastern European Mission) was established in 1961 to provide Bibles and Bible-based materials throughout the former communist bloc countries in Eastern Europe. Today, EEM publishes and prints Bibles and New Testaments as well as Teen Bibles, Children’s Bibles and Bible activity books, distributing them through a vast network of partner churches and organizations reaching more than 35+ countries and 25+ languages. EEM is an accredited member of ECFA. For more information, visit EEM’s website at www.eem.org/.
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Media Contact:
Melany Ethridge
972-267-1111
melany@alarryross.com
Gypsy Communities Receive First-Ever Bible Translation in their Unique Dialect
After receiving a Bible distributed by EEM, elderly Romani woman exclaims, 'God speaks our language!’
FORT WORTH, Texas, Aug. 29, 2024 — For the first-time ever, disadvantaged Romani (Gypsy) communities in Slovakia and Hungary have received God’s Word in their unique dialect. This is just one example of the impact of EEM’s Hope Campaign – launching Sept. 1 – in providing free Bibles for all throughout Eastern Europe and beyond.
EEM (Eastern European Mission), a ministry that has faithfully provided Bibles in former Communist bloc countries for more than 60 years, recently partnered with Hungarian Gypsy Missions International (HGMI) and the Slovakian pastor who translated the Bible into the regional Romani dialect, to distribute God’s Word to the Gypsy people of Eastern Europe. HGMI is a local Christian ministry with a focus on humanitarian aid and Gospel-sharing efforts to the vulnerable Romani people of the region.
Historically, this has been a widely oppressed community, experiencing persecution, violence, murder, forced sterilization and social ostracization for more than 1000 years to the present day. This traveling people group continues to endure social injustices, forcing them to feel lost, forgotten and unwanted.
“It’s a broken culture. The ‘normal’ culture around them doesn’t like the Gypsy people,” EEM regional representative Jon Mark Smith explained. “They’re treated worse than dogs. They are hated. They live in poverty, they have no running water, and most of them have no roofs over their heads. Their children aren’t even allowed to attend public schools in many of the nations in the region – they have to start their own schools.”
The Western perspective of the word “Gypsy” often holds a derogatory connotation. However, throughout Eastern Europe, this title is more descriptive, less offensive and often claimed by the Romani people, making HGMI’s ministry name appropriate, as they actively minister to these culturally forgotten and despised people.
There are many different Romani dialects, as the people are nomadic and have lived in regions throughout central and eastern Europe. In the region served by HGMI in Slovakia and Hungary, the people recognized their need for God’s Word in their own dialect. “We hear the preaching, we hear the Bible being taught, but we want to read it for ourselves in our own language,” was a common request among this group.
A local Slovakian pastor, Marek, felt God impress upon his heart the need to develop a Bible translation for the regional Romani dialect, for those who had never read the Word of God in their language before. He then worked for 15 years on putting together an accurate translation of the Bible in this dialect, a language used by the Romani people throughout various nations in Eastern Europe. Near the end of that 15 years, God led Marek to EEM, which was able to publish this new translation, with nearly 10,000 copies already distributed to members of this community throughout the region by HGMI, and another 10,000 being requested.
“Reading the Word of God for the very first time in their language was transformative for these people who have long felt forgotten and overlooked by the world,” said EEM regional director Monty Tuttle. “Men were emotional holding their Bibles up in church, just outpouring their hearts to one another. With tears in her eyes, one woman exclaimed, ‘God speaks our language.’ In essence, what she’s saying is that ‘God loves us. He truly cares about us – that he would stoop so low to speak our language.’”
This has been the vision of EEM since its inception and the goal of every year’s fall Hope Campaign – to provide Bibles for those who have never had them in their own heart language, so that they truly “get it” when it comes to God’s Word and the Gospel message. The 2024 goal is to raise funds to provide 970,000 Bibles to fulfill the requests coming in from throughout the region, such as the additional 10,000 Romani language Bibles.
To learn more about EEM, visit https://www.eem.org/. For more information on Hungarian Gypsy Missions International, go to: http://gypsymissions.org/.
About EEM
EEM (Eastern European Mission) was established in 1961 to provide Bibles and Bible-based materials throughout the former communist bloc countries in Eastern Europe. Today, EEM publishes and prints Bibles and New Testaments as well as Teen Bibles, Children’s Bibles and coloring books, distributing them through a vast network of partner churches and organizations reaching more than 35+ countries in 25+ different languages, including Farsi and Arabic. www.eem.org.
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Media Contact:
A. Larry Ross Communications
Melany Ethridge, 214-912-8934
More than 570,000 Children & Teens Receive Free Bibles in Eastern Europe and Beyond
Total of 1.7 million Bibles provided over last 3 years
FORT WORTH, Texas, July 1, 2024 — EEM (Eastern European Mission) successfully concluded its annual Bibles for Kids campaign yesterday to fund printing and distribution of more than 570,000 children and teen Bibles free for young souls across Eastern Europe and beyond. This brings the total over the last three years to more than 1.7 million Bibles in 19 different languages provided in the region into schools, hospitals and orphanages.
“That's not just a number; it's souls changed for eternity because for the first time, they have been able to read a Bible in their own language,” said EEM President Bob Burckle. “When these children begin to experience the love of Jesus through the power of His Word, they are forever changed. It's been the honor and privilege of our lives to witness this transformative reality in these kids’ hearts”
EEM’s mission is to share God’s Word with the people of Eastern Europe and beyond while educating and inspiring God’s servants everywhere to partner with them in His ministry. Their vision is: “The Bible. We Want Everyone to Get it.”
The ministry has seen a tremendous response in recent years, with entire school systems in several nations throughout the region requesting Bibles for every student. The Bibles for Kids campaign provides an opportunity for believers to partner in this effort to nurture the faith of children, as directed in Matthew 19:14: “Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these.”
“It's crucial that we engage kids with the Gospel while they are young,” said EEM Vice President Dirk Smith. “As we are experiencing here in the West, it’s much more difficult to build a Christ-centered character if someone isn’t reached with the message of Jesus until their later teen years.”
To learn more about Bibles for Kids, visit www.eem.org/bfk. Churches, ministries, mission points, and schools from Central and Eastern Europe can request free Bibles at https://eemeurope.org/our-books/.
About EEM
EEM (Eastern European Mission) was established in 1961 to provide Bibles and Bible-based materials throughout the former communist bloc countries in Eastern Europe. Today, EEM publishes and prints Bibles and New Testaments as well as Teen Bibles, Children’s Bibles and coloring books, distributing them free of charge through a vast network of partner churches and organizations reaching more than 32 countries in 25 different languages. For information, visit www.eem.org.
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Media Contact:
A. Larry Ross Communications
Melany Ethridge, 214-912-8934
melany@alarryross.com
EEM Announces Availability of New 499 Project Bible Illustrations for Proverbs
‘Envisioning Truth 499’ Free Drawings Available Under Creative Commons, Accessible Courtesy of EEM
HURST, Texas, April 15, 2024 — EEM (Eastern European Mission), a ministry that has been providing free Bibles in former Communist bloc countries and surrounding nations since 1961, is excited to announce the newest “Envisioning Truth 499” addition, highlighting the book of Proverbs. Made possible by Publishing Director Scott Hayes, this creative, educational compilation has previously included 499 illustrations representative of the New Testament, featuring nearly two images for every chapter, designed for children and adults of all backgrounds to better understand the Scriptures. More than 60 new drawings have now been added to help communicate the wisdom of Proverbs at a time when it’s so desperately needed.
After nearly 40 years acquiring and managing copyrights for the Bible translations and artwork used in ministry by EEM, Hayes recognized a real need for copyright-free artwork that could be utilized in a variety of creative ways around the world to promote comprehension of the Gospel message. Therefore, “Envisioning Truth 499” was co-created by Hayes and illustrator Fred Apps.
“The true Gospel message is the same regardless of one’s culture, status, background or language,” shared Hayes. “Therefore, it’s about relaying this message to others in a way that is also universal, transcending any potential barriers of literacy, age or privilege.”
Available under a Creative Commons license (CC by NC), the project’s objective remains to offer this powerful biblical resource to others. Together, Hayes and Apps have continued to apply their inspired talents to now present these profound teachings from this ancient book of wisdom through vivid and engaging visual representations.
They also aim to serve as a “memory hook,” assisting readers as they meditate on the Word of God to make a deepened head and heart connection. By making the images available and free for non-commercial use, the artwork can be used for multiple purposes – in teaching, at Sunday School, in small group Bible studies, at events such as Vacation Bible Schools and Backyard Bible Clubs, in after-school Christian programs, and abroad in nations with lower literacy rates.
“Our hope with this new addition is to offer the timeless wisdom and spiritual guidance contained within Proverbs in a unique and helpful way — just as we had already done with the New Testament stories,” added Hayes. “I believe these illustrations will encourage readers to envision the message within the text, and therefore, better understand it.”
The images are simple black-and-white line art, which allows them to be used for many purposes, as well as invites readers to color them in. They will be available via download from the EEM website and can be used in just about any way that helps to spread the Gospel, with the exception of being used for profit. They can be shared online via other websites, and with the reach of the Internet, have the potential to be used all over the world.
More information is available at https://www.eem.org/envisioning-truth-499/, where the images are also available for download — now featuring those from the book of Proverbs, as well as the original New Testament illustrations.
About Eastern European Mission
Eastern European Mission (EEM) was established in 1961 to provide Bibles and Bible-based materials throughout the former communist bloc countries in Eastern Europe. Today, EEM publishes and prints Bibles and New Testaments as well as Teen Bibles, Children’s Bibles and coloring books, distributing them through a vast network of partner churches and organizations which last year reached 36 countries in 26 different languages.
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Media Contact:
A. Larry Ross Communications
Melany Ethridge, 214-912-8934
melany@alarryross.com
EEM’s Bibles for Kids Initiative to Provide 570,000 Free Bibles to Children & Teens in 2024
Ministry Promotes Matching Fund Campaign, Spiritually Equipping Students and Refugee Children in Eastern Europe
HURST, Texas, Mar. 4, 2024 — EEM (Eastern European Mission), a ministry that has faithfully aided those in former Communist bloc countries for more than 60 years by supplying free Bibles in their heart languages, invites donors worldwide to support its “Bibles for Kids” matching fund campaign, launched March 1 and running through June 30, 2024.
The Bibles for Kids campaign aims to unite Christians from various global cultures with a unified purpose: to deliver Bibles to children in their own language. Last year’s campaign met its goal of distributing 560,000 Bibles, specifically with a significant gifting of teen Bibles. This year, EEM aims to distribute 10,000 more Bibles, totaling 570,000, to children and teens throughout Eastern Europe.
“Worldwide, there are countless children who have never even read or owned a Bible,” shares Bob Burckle, President of EEM. “This is difficult for us to fathom in the West when we’ve never known any scarcity of God’s Word. Our goal is to gift as many Bibles as we can to these little ones, bringing hope, joy, transformation and salvation to these innocents, desperate for these gifts.”
The ministry’s mission is to share God’s Word with the people of Eastern Europe and beyond, seeking to educate and inspire God’s servants in this work. EEM publishes, prints and distributes Bibles and Bible-based materials in 30+ countries and 20+ languages through a vast network of partner churches and organizations. This year’s Bibles for Kids matching fund campaign urges Christians around the world to foster the faith of children and teens in Eastern Europe and beyond through prayerful and financial partnership so that 570,000 Bibles will be gifted to 570,000 kids in 2024. Donations will be matched to double the impact of gifts, meaning that a $5 donation would normally cover one Bible, but thanks to the Bibles for Kids’ matching gift donors, this contribution will now allow for the distribution of two Bibles.
“We need believers to come alongside us in ministry as we aim to share the Gospel with these young souls, many of whom have never heard the name of Jesus,” urges Dirk Smith, Vice President of EEM. “Together, we are his hands and feet, offering the hope of salvation to those who have yet to know Him. The small sacrifices we can each make in our day-to-day routines can provide these children and teens with Bibles that will effectively change their lives forever. And we encourage families here in the West to invite their own little ones to pray for the children of Eastern Europe and beyond, that they may discover the Source of hope.“
Bibles for Kids Campaign by the Numbers:
1. $5 (the cost of a cup of coffee) = 2 Bibles
2. $25 (the cost of a pair of movie tickets) = 10 Bibles
1. $100 (the cost of a round of golf) = 40 Bibles
● $500 (the cost of a weekend getaway) = 200 Bibles
Those who accept the call to support this campaign are encouraged to use the hashtag #BiblesforKids to share about this profound Kingdom-building opportunity with others. To learn more about Bibles for Kids and make a donation, visit https://www.eem.org/biblesforkids/.
About EEM
EEM (Eastern European Mission) was established in 1961 to provide Bibles and Bible-based materials throughout the former communist bloc countries in Eastern Europe. Today, EEM publishes and prints Bibles and New Testaments as well as Teen Bibles, Children’s Bibles and coloring books, distributing them through a vast network of partner churches and organizations which last year reached 36 countries in 26 different languages.
# # #
Media Contact:
A. Larry Ross Communications
Melany Ethridge, 214-912-8934
melany@alarryross.com
EEM Partners with PFI to Provide Thousands of Bibles and Biblical Resources in Prisons across Eastern Europe
Ministries Work Together to Reach Prisoners and their Families with Discipleship Development Programs
HURST, Texas, Feb. 6, 2024 — Eastern European Mission (EEM), a ministry that has faithfully aided those in Communist bloc countries for more than 60 years by supplying free Bibles, has recently partnered with Prison Fellowship International (PFI), the world’s largest international association of national Christian ministries working within the criminal justice field, for an in-prison discipleship plan, providing more than 7,700 Bibles and Bible-based materials to prisoners in Eastern Europe in 2023.
“We were thrilled to partner with this storied ministry to reach individuals who are so in need of hearing the Good News of the Gospel,” shares EEM Vice President Dirk Smith in a recent podcast with PFI President and CEO Andy Corley. “We print, publish and distribute Bibles, and we work in the nations [PFI] work[s] in. This is exactly the come-alongside relationship that we [have been] looking for.”
A recent Missions Box article highlighted PFI’s ministry accomplishments through their global program, The Prisoner’s Journey® (TPJ), also praising EEM along with other ministry partners as “integral members of this global team, providing hundreds of thousands of Bibles to prisoners in their heart languages as part of this program.”
The Prisoner’s Journey is unique in that it offers those in prison the opportunity to experience a transformational, restorative relationship with Jesus through the Gospel of Mark. The course is facilitated through four key phases:
1. Invitation – Prisoners attend a promotional event to watch a video introducing them to the restorative power of Jesus.
2. Gathering – Participants meet weekly in small groups to learn about who Jesus is and what He wants for their lives.
3. Graduation – Course graduates attend a ceremony where they are honored for completing the course and receive a Bible.
4. Discipleship – Course graduates are invited to enroll in additional discipleship programs.
“We celebrate the graduates from our evangelism and discipleship programs,” shares Andy Corley, CEO of PFI. “...in almost all cases, when the [prisoners] graduate [from] a program, they’ll get a certificate, and a copy of the Scriptures in their heart language – which is where EEM comes in. We love that model because it’s honoring [to the graduates], and many times, it is the first time they are receiving such an acknowledgement. It’s an incredibly powerful moment in their lives.”
As part of this effort, EEM has supplied Bibles to the mission and ministry of PFI in Ukraine, Russia, Romania and Hungary. This profound partnership, already off to an impressive start, anticipates even greater things in the years to come, including more Bibles distributed, more graduates through follow-on discipleship programs, and more lives changed forever.
“Our mission is to transform the lives of prisoners, their families and victims through a global network of ministry partners,” continues Corley in the podcast. “We’re looking for outcomes in individuals' lives... [while] also looking for outcomes in transformation and growth of our national ministries. That alignment is where we will truly start to have an impact towards breaking the cycle of crime, worldwide, through Jesus’ love.”
EEM President Bob Burckle sees an alignment of purpose within the organizations. “We, too, share the vision of transforming nations through providing God’s Word to those who have never before had it in their own heart language, so that they may truly understand and see their lives totally changed,” he said. “We’ve been doing this for years through schools, churches, aid organizations and the like, and we are now honored and grateful to be able to do the same in hundreds of prisons throughout Eastern Europe.”
To learn more about EEM, visit https://www.eem.org/. For more information on The Prisoner’s Journey or to donate to this transformational mission, go to: Lamplighter - Prison Fellowship International (pfi.org).
About Eastern European Mission
Eastern European Mission (EEM) was established in 1961 to provide Bibles and Bible-based materials throughout the former communist bloc countries in Eastern Europe. Today, EEM publishes and prints Bibles and New Testaments as well as Teen Bibles, Children’s Bibles and coloring books, distributing them through a vast network of partner churches and organizations reaching more than 32 countries in 23 different languages, delivering nearly 2 million Bibles in 2023. See more at www.eem.org.
About Prison Fellowship International
Since 1979, Prison Fellowship International has helped prisoners experience transformation from the inside out through the healing power of the Gospel. Its mission is to transform the lives of prisoners, their families and victims through a global network of ministry partners.
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Media Contact:
A. Larry Ross Communications
Melany Ethridge, 972-267-1111
melany@alarryross.com
EEM will Distribute 800,000 Bibles and Bible-based Materials to Eastern Europe in 2024
Amid War in Ukraine, Ministry Meets $4M Fall Fundraising Goal to Change Lives Through the Word of God
HURST, Texas, Jan. 2, 2024 – EEM (Eastern European Mission), a ministry that has steadfastly worked for more than 62 years to supply free Bibles to eastern Europe and the surrounding nations, has met its Fall “Hope” campaign goal in order to distribute 800,000 Bibles and other biblical materials throughout the region in 2024. In addition to a significant number going to Ukraine, this year’s campaign will see large numbers of people in Poland, Hungary and Romania introduced to God’s Word in their heart language for perhaps the very first time.
Despite the ongoing war, lingering COVID-19 issues, rising costs and ongoing supply chain problems, EEM’s distribution of Bibles continues to increase. Through the Ukraine Aid donation campaign, the ministry’s early 2023 efforts provided funds for food, warm clothing, shelter, medicine and urgent medical care for thousands of internally displaced persons (IDPs) in Ukraine and Ukrainian refugees in other Eastern European nations. And in wrapping up the year with a successful Fall "Hope” campaign – meeting its goal of $4 million – EEM will be able to give the gift of lasting hope to 800,000 individuals through the Bible.
“We haven't forgotten about all the hurting people in Ukraine and the surrounding affected nations,” said EEM’s president Bob Burckle. “All these people are desperately seeking hope – many of them asking for Bibles in the shelters. We must continue to be the hands and feet of Jesus in providing the Word of God to them in their heart languages.”
In addition to ever-increasing requests for Ukrainian-language Bibles, the neighboring countries continue to see growth in demand for Bibles and biblical literature in their native language as well. By meeting the “Hope” campaign goal, EEM will be able to provide Bibles in 19 different languages to people living in 24 different countries. Many of these will be distributed to families and individuals who have never had a Bible in their homes or language – even going back generations since these nations lived under communism.
“We have witnessed an ever-growing awakening to the Spirit of God throughout Eastern Europe, especially in regions that have now had access to God’s Word for more than a generation,” added EEM vice president Dirk Smith. “The children who have received these Bibles are tomorrow’s leaders, and we look forward to seeing what God will continue to do in this region, bringing people to Him and bringing them together in Christian unity.”
EEM’s mission: to give free of charge, native language translations of the Word of God to the nations of Eastern Europe and beyond by distributing Bibles and Bible-based materials to individuals, churches, public schools, orphanages, youth camps, hospitals, prisons and rehabilitation institutions. The ministry works with national leaders in nations such as Ukraine, Romania, Croatia, North Macedonia, Moldova and other countries to effectively place Bibles both in public schools and directly with students.
“We are so grateful to our donors, and we praise the Lord in it all,” Burckle concluded. “He has opened doors for us, given us the resources, manpower and the right connections – all so that Eastern Europeans would have the Word of God.”
To learn more about EEM, see www.eem.org.
About Eastern European Mission
Eastern European Mission (EEM) was established in 1961 to provide Bibles and Bible-based materials throughout the former communist bloc countries in Eastern Europe. Today, EEM publishes and prints Bibles and New Testaments as well as Teen Bibles, Children’s Bibles and Bible activity books, distributing them through a vast network of partner churches and organizations reaching more than 35 countries in 26 different languages. EEM is an accredited member of ECFA. For more information, visit EEM’s website at www.eem.org/.
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Media Contact:
Melany Ethridge
972-267-1111
Humanitarian Aid Urgently Needed Amid Worsening War Conditions in Ukraine
HURST, Texas, Jan. 9, 2024 – EEM (Eastern European Mission), a ministry that has steadfastly worked for more than 60 years to supply free Bibles to Eastern Europe and the surrounding nations, has announced its Ukraine Humanitarian Aid 2024 campaign. The goal is to raise funds to help displaced and homeless Ukrainian families to survive the most barbaric wartime conditions experienced in Europe since World War II—and to ultimately find hope in Christ.
Russia’s ongoing bombing of Ukrainian infrastructure—including the destruction of vital power grids meant to sustain Ukrainians through the darkest, coldest months—has left millions of innocent people desperate for electricity, warm clothing, food, water, medical supplies, transportation, and more bomb shelters for continued protection against the onslaught. In addition to the daily crisis of potentially freezing to death, with ongoing shortages of food and medicines, many people remain displaced in these prominent bombing areas with no end in sight.
“Despite other global news being heavily spotlighted at this present time, we cannot ignore the fact that millions of innocent people are facing increasingly unimaginable brutality, suffering and death,” explains EEM’s vice president Dirk Smith. “We cannot forget about these people. This is their reality right now. While we might be halfway across the world, we must look at this situation through the eyes of Christ—that we would be the hands and feet of God to the most vulnerable.”
In consideration of this worsening crisis, EEM is promoting a campaign that will directly help through the provision of coats, blankets, food, medicine and other essential physical needs; 100% of the funds raised will go directly to the Ukrainian people. Every gift toward this campaign communicates the love of God for the people of Ukraine, helping them know they have not been forgotten.
Nearly two years ago, tragedy struck the people in Ukraine, and donors responded with immense generosity that provided for thousands of people through EEM’s ministry partners on the frontlines administering humanitarian aid. EEM donations have supported refugees both within Ukraine and in surrounding eastern European nations by providing them with food, warm clothing, shelter and urgent medical care.
“They often cry with gratitude upon receiving aid, but as the war stagnates and yet continues to become increasingly brutal, even more is needed in 2024,” shares EEM President Bob Burckle.
EEM will also share God’s Word with everyone assisted through this campaign. Donors can help provide this essential support with a gift of $25, $50, $100, $500 or more to help homeless Ukrainian families survive the winter. EEM is asking that all donations be received as soon as possible due to the urgency of the situation.
“Our ministry partners continue to stand ready to provide humanitarian aid especially as winter wears on,” continues Burckle. “I can’t imagine mothers of young children or the elderly being able to survive these conditions, with no power for warmth and no running water. Even more than giving, we are asking everyone to join us in praying for peace in Ukraine plus an end to this horrible war.”
To learn more about EEM or to make a donation, visit https://www.eem.org/ukraineaid.
About Eastern European Mission
Eastern European Mission (EEM) was established in 1961 to provide Bibles and Bible-based materials throughout the former communist bloc countries in Eastern Europe. Today, EEM publishes and prints Bibles and New Testaments as well as Teen Bibles, Children’s Bibles and coloring books, distributing them through a vast network of partner churches and organizations reaching more than 32 countries in 25 different languages. EEM is an accredited member of ECFA. For more information, visit EEM’s website at www.eem.org/.
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Media Contact:
Melany Ethridge
972-267-1111
melany@alarryross.com
EEM Seeks to Provide Hope to 800,000 in New Fall Campaign
Ministry Aims to Raise Funds for Bible Distribution in Eastern Europe
HURST, Texas, Aug. 29, 2023 — As EEM (Eastern European Mission) builds on its more than 62 year history supplying free Bibles in former communist nations and beyond, the ministry announced an audacious Fall fundraising campaign goal, based on the theme “Hope.” The cost to deliver 800,000 Bibles and other biblical materials in the region in the next year will be four million dollars, but EEM leadership agree the value of sharing the hope of the Gospel with 800,000 new souls is priceless.
“I love the adage that without food, man can live for a month, without water he can live for a day, without air he can live for a minute, but without hope he can’t live for a second,” said EEM President, Bob Burckle. “We have seen this borne out in Ukraine, especially, where there is so much fear and discouragement, but the hope of Christ continues to fortify those who have lost everything and face death daily.”
In addition to ever-increasing requests for Ukrainian language Bibles, growing numbers continue to come in from throughout the rest of the region. Altogether, the new goal will provide Bibles in 19 different languages to people living in 24 different countries. Many of these will be going to families and individuals who have never had a Bible in their homes – going back generations as these nations lived under communism – and have never even seen one in their own language.
"A key focus of the 12 young couples who founded EEM by smuggling Bibles under the Iron Curtain back in 1961 was that everyone who wanted one could have a Bible that they could read and understand in their heart language,” said EEM Vice President, Dirk Smith. “Otherwise, what would be the point? Our mission is not just to see books delivered, but to see the Gospel of hope permeate people’s hearts and minds so that they become true followers of Jesus and continue to spread his Word throughout the nations. We are truly seeing a move of God in Eastern Europe and couldn’t be more excited for the souls coming to Christ daily.”
EEM’s Fall campaign previously was themed “Million Dollar Sunday,” as when it launched, one million dollars was an average goal. In recent years, with both costs and requests for Bibles skyrocketing, the “MDS” language no longer fits the need, so the ministry has transitioned its theme to “Hope” as the common idea that continues to surface after hearing how the Bible brings hope to those who receive it.
“It seems every day we hear new stories from our in-country staff or ministry partners on the ground about people who get Bibles from us and whose lives are transformed as they ‘get’ the meaning of God’s love and forgiveness for them,” Burckle added. “Not only do they receive the hope of eternity, but it inspires us with the hope that we will see everyone in Eastern Europe and beyond reached with the Gospel of Christ.”
The campaign launches Sept. 1 and runs through year’s end. To learn more about EEM’s annual Fall fundraising campaign and make a donation, visit https://www.eem.org/hope.
About Eastern European Mission
Eastern European Mission (EEM) was established in 1961 to provide Bibles and Bible-based materials throughout the former communist bloc countries in Eastern Europe. Today, EEM publishes and prints Bibles and New Testaments as well as Teen Bibles, Children’s Bibles and coloring books, distributing them through a vast network of partner churches and organizations which last year reached 36 countries in 26 different languages.
# # #
Media Contact:
A. Larry Ross Communications
Melany Ethridge, 214-912-8934
melany@alarryross.com
Over 500,000 Children in Former Communist Nations Receive Bibles, Hear Gospel
HURST, Texas, Aug. 15, 2023 – Following a successful spring “Bibles for Kids” fundraising campaign, EEM (Eastern European Mission), a ministry that has steadfastly worked for more than 60 years to supply free Bibles to Eastern Europe and the surrounding nations, will be providing over 500,000 Bibles for teens and children in nations such as Hungary, Croatia and North Macedonia.
The first group of over 100,000 Bibles was distributed recently in Hungary via a Christian puppet ministry Palanta Mission for Children and Youth, which presented the Gospel in the public schools. By the end of June, 40,000 Children's Bibles and nearly 50,000 Teen Bibles had been distributed to more than 2,000 educational institutions. The Bibles were specifically requested by the heads of schools and kindergartens throughout the nation. “We believe, we hope that the seeds sown, the saving message of the Gospel through the more than 100,000 Bibles will find open hearts and bear fruits,” said Sára Juhász-Balogh, coordinator of children’s resources.
Another 250,000 Bibles were sent to North Macedonia, the second half of a commitment to this nation that started last year in cooperation with the local Orthodox Church and public schools. “We are excited about the partnerships we have formed with local church leaders and the government of North Macedonia, particularly with regard to providing Children’s Bibles in public schools throughout the nation,” said EEM president Bob Burckle. In May, Vice President Dirk Smith and Marketing Director Brooke Kehl traveled with National Director Jura Lazar to follow up on the latest delivery of 250,000 Bibles and continue to develop relationships with new ministry partners on the ground.
In regions where the Croatian language is spoken, a total of over one million Bibles – both adult and children’s books – have been provided over the last several years, with a significant number of those Children’s Bibles delivered thanks to the Bibles for Kids campaign.
Many of these eastern European nations are following Ukraine’s example, which invited EEM to distribute Bibles throughout its public-school systems for use in the teaching of Christian education and ethics classes. Now, Ukrainian children’s Bibles are also being delivered in other nations throughout Eastern Europe where families have sought refuge from the war, including significant numbers in Poland, Hungary and Moldova. Similarly, Hungarian children living as a minority in Croatia received Bible-based materials in their own language so that they can now learn about God at school without a language barrier.
“We are so grateful for our many donors who contribute to make these gifts possible, so that these children can grow up with a knowledge of God, unlike previous generations in these nations,” said EEM vice president Dirk Smith. “We love seeing how even the children who donate to our Bibles for Kids campaign receive a blessing knowing that they’ve helped other kids around the world learn to follow Jesus.”
To learn more about EEM or to make a donation, visit https://www.eem.org.
About Eastern European Mission
Eastern European Mission (EEM) was established in 1961 to provide Bibles and Bible-based materials throughout the former communist bloc countries in Eastern Europe. Today, EEM publishes and prints Bibles and New Testaments as well as Teen Bibles, Children’s Bibles, and coloring books, distributing them through a vast network of partner churches and organizations reaching more than 32 countries in 23 different languages, including Farsi and Arabic. For more information, visit EEM’s website at www.eem.org/.
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Media Contact:
Melany Ethridge
972-267-1111
melany@alarryross.com
EEM Reaches Goal to Provide 560,000 Free Bibles for Kids in 2023
Ministry Seeks to Spiritually Equip Students and Refugee Children in Eastern Europe
HURST, Texas, July 11, 2023 — EEM (Eastern European Mission), a ministry that has faithfully aided those in former Communist bloc countries for more than 60 years by supplying free Bibles, announced that it has reached its goal for the 2023 “Bibles for Kids” campaign. As a result, more than 560,000 Bibles will be provided to meet spiritual needs and the hunger for God’s Word among children and teens in Eastern Europe and beyond.
“We have a unique opportunity to disciple an entire generation of young believers through the provision of God’s Word,” said EEM President Bob Burckle. “Because of the generosity and sacrifices of our donors – many of whom are children themselves – hundreds of thousands of lives will be eternally changed.”
An example of the children served by EEM is 7-year-old Lev, a Ukrainian refugee now living in Croatia. Lev received his own children’s Bible after fleeing Ukraine with his mother when the war began. He now attends church and helps with local Bible distribution. He used his Ukrainian Children’s Bible from EEM in his language class where he learned to write for the first time.
In fact, many of the nations throughout Eastern Europe – which under Communist rule banned the Bible and Christian teaching – now welcome the distribution and use of Bibles in entire public school systems. Last year’s Bibles for Kids campaign enabled the ministry to deliver 225,000 children’s Bibles in Northern Macedonia alone. This year, EEM hopes to provide a significant number of children’s and teen Bibles in nations such as Hungary, North Macedonia, Ukraine, Romania and Russia. Bibles will be produced in 20 languages total, including Albanian, Armenian, Belarusian, Croatian, Czech, Polish and Serbian, among others.
“We appreciate the many thousands of individuals who have made commitments to join arms with us so that every child in Eastern Europe and beyond who needs a copy of God’s Word in their own language is able to have one,” said EEM Vice President Dirk Smith. “The need in this region is great, but we know that by working together in unity of purpose, we can see the gospel message reach everyone whose hearts are open.”
To learn more about EEM’s annual Bibles for Kids campaign and make a donation, visit https://www.eem.org/biblesforkids/.
About Eastern European Mission
Eastern European Mission (EEM) was established in 1961 to provide Bibles and Bible-based materials throughout the former communist bloc countries in Eastern Europe. Today, EEM publishes and prints Bibles and New Testaments as well as Teen Bibles, Children’s Bibles and coloring books, distributing them through a vast network of partner churches and organizations which last year reached 36 countries in 26 different languages.
# # #
Media Contact:
A. Larry Ross Communications
Melany Ethridge, 214-912-8934
melany@alarryross.com
EEM Travels Abroad to Share Stories from the Front Lines in Season 2 of '5511 Podcast’
Inspiring Interviews Remind Listeners that God’s Word is Powerful and He is Faithful
HURST, Texas, May 4, 2023 — Eastern European Mission (EEM), a ministry that has steadfastly worked for more than 60 years to supply free Bibles to former Communist bloc countries, announces season two of its uplifting “5511 Podcast,” streaming now via Apple, Spotify and Google.
Hosted by EEM team members Dirk Smith and Brooke Kehl, the “5511 Podcast” shares stories of God’s power being poured out globally through the lives of ordinary people. With new episodes releasing on the first Tuesday of every month, each story is a living example of Isaiah 55:11, which declares that God's Word never returns without having fulfilled its purpose.
Season 2 will feature a few exciting changes to the podcast, including the addition of a video format available on EEM's YouTube channel, a new episode rhythm, and some very special plans abroad.
“As we dive into season two of the ‘5511 Podcast,’ we’re excited to introduce our listeners to some of EEM’s dedicated team members and international partners who are serving on the front lines of the ministry,” said Dirk Smith, Vice President of EEM. “We’ll travel overseas to touch base with members of our European team, asking questions about their walk with Jesus and hearing about the remarkable ways God is using people to share His Word across the globe."
Guests appearing on season two of the 5511 Podcast will include:
Jura Lazar, EEM's Regional Director for Central Europe
Scott Hayes, EEM's Publishing Director
Bart Rybinski, EEM’s Vice President of European Operations
Johnathan Macris, President of Hellenic Ministries in Greece
Matt Gulley, Director of Diaspora Pathways, ministering to Afghan refugees in Greece.
To listen and subscribe to the “5511 Podcast,” visit eem.org/5511podcast. To watch the video format, visit https://www.youtube.com/@eem-thebible.wewanteveryon9348.
About Eastern European Mission
Eastern European Mission (EEM) was established in 1961 to provide Bibles and Bible-based materials throughout the former communist bloc countries in Eastern Europe. Today, EEM publishes and prints Bibles and New Testaments as well as Teen Bibles, Children’s Bibles and coloring books, distributing free of charge through a vast network of partner churches and organizations reaching more than 32 countries in 23 different languages, including Farsi and Arabic. www.eem.org.
EEM Unveils 499 Bible Illustrations
Available Under Creative Commons and Inspired by EEM's Motto: ‘The Bible. We Want Everyone to Get It’
HURST, Texas, April 3, 2023 — EEM (Eastern European Mission), a ministry that has been providing free Bibles in former Communist bloc countries and surrounding nations since 1961, will now be the conduit, thanks to Publishing Director Scott Hayes, for getting 499 illustrations for the New Testament – nearly two for every chapter – to children and adults everywhere, to help them better understand the Scriptures.
After nearly 40 years acquiring and managing copyrights for the Bible translations and artwork used in the many projects EEM prints and distributes throughout Eastern Europe, Hayes recognized a real need for copyright-free artwork that could be utilized in a variety of creative ways around the world to promote comprehension of the Gospel message. “Envisioning Truth 499” is the project he and illustrator Fred Phelps created together.
“This project has been an exercise in using the creativity that is a part of being made in God’s image,” Hayes said. “It is our hope that the artwork, which is now available under Creative Commons license (CC by NC), will be further developed and used in ways we have not imagined – all for the glory of God.”
The inspiration to create Bible illustrations arose from the desire to help people of all ages and backgrounds understand the powerful message of the Bible. With EEM’S motto "The Bible. We want everyone to get it" in mind, Hayes and Phelps applied their God given creative talents to bring the stories and teachings of the Bible to life through vivid and engaging visual representations.
“Our hope is to encourage people to explore and understand the timeless wisdom and spiritual guidance contained within the pages of the Bible,” Hayes added. “Whether depicting the calming of the storm, the life of Jesus, or the struggles and triumphs of biblical heroes, the artist's illustrations offer a fresh perspective and a powerful reminder of the relevance of these stories in our modern lives.”
Hayes believes these illustrations will encourage readers to envision the message within the text, and therefore better understand it. They will also serve as a memory hook to assist in the message moving from the head to the heart as readers meditate on the words. By making the images available free for non-commercial use, the artwork can be used for multiple purposes – in teaching, in Sunday School materials, in small group Bible studies, events such as Vacation Bible Schools or Backyard Bible Clubs, in after school Christian programs, etc.
The project has been a couple years in the making, with Hayes finding time during the early COVID-19 lockdowns to document ideas for the illustrations. As a longtime Bible teacher, he usually had a visual illustration in mind as he communicated about various New Testament passages, so he was able to list these out in a chart with recommendations for the illustrator. Once drawing commenced, it took about a year to complete every illustration.
The images are simple black-and-white line art, which allows them to be used for many purposes, as well as invites readers to color them in. They will be available via download from the EEM website and can be used in just about any way that helps to spread the Gospel, except for being used in products that would be sold for profit. They can be shared online via other websites, and with the reach of the Internet, have the potential to be used all over the world.
“It’s just about sharing resources, which is what EEM is all about,” Hayes said. “There should be no competition, no charge and no one getting any credit when it comes to sharing God’s Word, and that is the heart behind ‘Envisioning Truth 499.’”
More information is available at https://www.eem.org/envisioning-truth-499/, where the images are also available for download.
About Eastern European Mission
Eastern European Mission (EEM) was established in 1961 to provide Bibles and Bible-based materials throughout the former communist bloc countries in Eastern Europe. Today, EEM publishes and prints Bibles and New Testaments as well as Teen Bibles, Children’s Bibles and coloring books, distributing them through a vast network of partner churches and organizations which last year reached 36 countries in 26 different languages.
Bibles-for-Kids Initiative to Provide 560,000 Free Bibles in 2023
Ministry Promotes Matching Fund Campaign to Spiritually Equip Students and Refugee Children in Eastern Europe
HURST, Texas, Mar. 1, 2023 — EEM (Eastern European Mission), a ministry that has faithfully aided those in former Communist bloc countries for more than 60 years by supplying free Bibles, invites donors worldwide to support its “Bibles for Kids” matching fund campaign, launching March 1 and running through June 30, 2023.
The Bibles for Kids campaign aims to unite Christians from various global cultures with a unified purpose: to deliver Bibles to children in their heart languages. Specifically for 2023 EEM envisions a significant gifting of teen Bibles, aligning with an observed growth, spiritual need and hunger for God’s Word among that age group.
“Every person deserves to understand the Word of God,” shared Bob Burckle, President of EEM. “Distributing Bibles to these teens not only in their heart languages—but also in a format that is more geared toward their age group when it comes to focus, vernacular and notes—will allow for a more palatable and transformative understanding of Scripture. Our goal is to get a Bible into their hands and then into their hearts and minds.”
EEM’s mission is to share God’s Word with the people of Eastern Europe and beyond, seeking to educate and inspire God’s servants in this work. The ministry publishes, prints and distributes Bibles and Bible-based materials in 30+ countries and 20+ languages through a vast network of partner churches and organizations. This year’s Bibles for Kids matching fund campaign specifically urges Christians around the world to foster the faith of children and teens in Eastern Europe through prayerful and financial partnership so that 560,000 Bibles will be supplied to 560,000 kids in 2023. Donations will be matched to double the impact of gifts, meaning that a $5 donation would normally cover one Bible, but with the Bibles for Kids matching gift, it will now purchase two Bibles.
“We need believers to join us in our bold campaign as we spread the Gospel to the younger generations of Eastern Europe,” encourages Dirk Smith, Vice President of EEM. “Together, we are the hands and feet of Jesus, offering the Source of Life to others. The small sacrifices these faithful believers can make in order to provide these children and teens with Bibles will change the world.”
Bibles for Kids Campaign by the Numbers:
$5 (the cost of a cup of coffee) = 2 Bibles
$25 (the cost of a pair of movie tickets) = 10 Bibles
$100 (the cost of a round of golf) = 40 Bibles
$500 (the cost of a weekend getaway) = 200 Bibles
Through the Bibles for Kids matching fund campaign, there’s a unique opportunity for united Christians to grow an entire generation of young believers by simply forgoing certain customary life luxuries. From these simple sacrifices of personal comfort, many Bibles will be gifted—and lives will be changed.
Those who accept the challenge are encouraged to use the hashtag #BiblesforKids to share about this profound Kingdom-building opportunity with others. To learn more about Bibles for Kids and make a donation, visit https://www.eem.org/biblesforkids/.
About Eastern European Mission
Eastern European Mission (EEM) was established in 1961 to provide Bibles and Bible-based materials throughout the former communist bloc countries in Eastern Europe. Today, EEM publishes and prints Bibles and New Testaments as well as Teen Bibles, Children’s Bibles and coloring books, distributing them through a vast network of partner churches and organizations which last year reached 36 countries in 26 different languages.
EEM Distributes Nearly 2 Million Bibles and Bible-based Materials to Eastern Europe in 2022
A nearly 30% increase despite war, supply chain issues
HURST, Texas, Feb. 1, 2023 – EEM (Eastern European Mission), a ministry that has steadfastly worked for more than 60 years to supply free Bibles to eastern Europe and the surrounding nations, distributed 1,966,043 Bibles and Bible-based materials to 35 countries and in 26 languages in 2022, up from 1,529,668 Bibles distributed in 2021. Placed cover-to-cover on a bookshelf, these books would stretch over 15 miles.
Despite the war, lingering COVID-19 issues, rising costs and ongoing supply chain problems, EEM’s 2022 distribution increased by 28.5%. In Ukraine alone, Bible and Bible-based material distribution went up 40% even amidst war with Russia. Additionally, EEM provided funds for food, warm clothing, shelter medicine and urgent medical care for thousands of internally displaced persons (IDPs) in Ukraine and Ukrainian refugees in other eastern European nations. EEM’s Ukraine Aid donation campaign is continuing into 2023 with special effort to help Ukrainian families with humanitarian aid to survive the winter.
“We are so grateful to our donors, who have made this amazing growth possible. We praise God and give Him the glory for providing the resources, the manpower, and the open doors for sharing His Word throughout eastern Europe and beyond,” said EEM president Bob Burckle. “We also remain focused on the spiritual and humanitarian needs for the people of Ukraine. We continue to pray for peace in this region and are doing all we can to assist them in this time of dire need, when so many are turning to the hope found in God’s Word to endure the unendurable.”
EEM’s mission is to give access to the Word of God in the native languages of the nations of Eastern Europe and beyond by distributing Bibles and Bible-based materials to individuals, churches, public schools, orphanages, youth camps, hospitals, prisons and rehabilitation institutions. EEM works with national leaders in nations such as Ukraine, Romania, Croatia, North Macedonia and other countries to place Bibles both in public schools and directly to students.
“We are seeing a growing awakening to the Spirit of God throughout eastern Europe, especially in those regions where for more than a generation they now have access to God’s Word in their heart language,” said EEM vice president Dirk Smith. “The children who have received these Bibles are tomorrow’s leaders, and we look forward to seeing what God will continue to do in this region, bringing people to Him and bringing them together in Christian unity.”
To learn more about EEM, see www.eem.org. To make a donation to the Ukraine humanitarian aid fund, visit www.eem.org/ukraineaid.
About Eastern European Mission
Eastern European Mission (EEM) was established in 1961 to provide Bibles and Bible-based materials throughout the former communist bloc countries in Eastern Europe. Today, EEM publishes and prints Bibles and New Testaments as well as Teen Bibles, Children’s Bibles and Bible activity books, distributing them through a vast network of partner churches and organizations reaching more than 35 countries in 26 different languages. EEM is an accredited member of ECFA. For more information, visit EEM’s website at www.eem.org/.
$1.5 million for Life-Saving Humanitarian Aid Needed in Ukraine
With power grids compromised, refugees need help to survive brutal winter
HURST, Texas, Jan. 5, 2023 – EEM (Eastern European Mission), a ministry that has steadfastly worked for more than 60 years to supply free Bibles to Eastern Europe and the surrounding nations, has announced its Ukraine Humanitarian Aid 2023 campaign. The goal is to raise $1.5 million to help displaced and homeless Ukrainian families to survive the most barbaric wartime winter conditions experienced in Europe since World War II, and to ultimately find hope in Christ.
Russia’s ongoing bombing of power grids meant to sustain Ukrainians through the darkest, coldest months has left millions desperate for electricity, winter clothing, solar-charged power stations, food, water, medical supplies, transportation, and more bomb shelters. It is literally a life-or-death situation in winter. Aid is urgently needed, with people waiting to be evacuated from combat zones, and hospitals in need of medications for the many ill and injured patients.
“As a Ukrainian mother myself, I can’t ignore this critical need for humanitarian aid, and I believe you can’t either,” said Dasha Novikova, National Director of Ukrainian Operations for EEM. “We are urging people to prayerfully consider giving a gift to this Ukraine Aid 2023 campaign. I believe we have an incredible opportunity to be the hands and feet of Jesus to the most vulnerable.”
The good news is that anyone can help EEM meet these desperate needs through giving. With every gift toward this campaign, Ukrainians will know they are not forgotten and can be introduced to the love of Christ. Ten months ago, tragedy struck the people in Ukraine and donors responded with immense generosity that provided for thousands of people through EEM’s ministry partners on the frontlines providing humanitarian aid.
Last year, EEM donations supported refugees both within Ukraine and in surrounding eastern European nations by providing them with food, warm clothing, shelter and urgent medical care. They often cry with gratitude upon receiving aid, but as the war continues to become increasingly brutal, even more is being requested in 2023.
EEM will also share God’s Word with everyone assisted through this campaign. Donors can help provide this essential support with a gift of $25, $50, $100, or more to help homeless Ukrainian families survive the winter. EEM is asking that all donations be received by Feb. 28 due to the urgency of the situation.
“EEM’s extensive network of ministry partners stands ready on the frontlines to help – especially as the winters in Ukraine can be insufferable,” EEM President Bob Burckle said. “I can’t imagine mothers of young children or the elderly being able to survive these conditions, with no power for warmth and no running water. Even more than giving, we are asking everyone to join us in praying for peace in Ukraine and an end to this horrible war.”
To learn more about EEM or to make a donation, visit https://www.eem.org/ukraineaid.
About Eastern European Mission
Eastern European Mission (EEM) was established in 1961 to provide Bibles and Bible-based materials throughout the former communist bloc countries in Eastern Europe. Today, EEM publishes and prints Bibles and New Testaments as well as Teen Bibles, Children’s Bibles and coloring books, distributing them through a vast network of partner churches and organizations reaching more than 32 countries in 23 different languages, including Farsi and Arabic. EEM is an accredited member of ECFA. For more information, visit EEM’s website at www.eem.org/.
Ukraine Director for EEM Gives Update on her Country and People in Season Finale of EEM’s 55:11 Podcast
WHAT:
EEM (Eastern European Mission), a ministry that has steadfastly worked for more than 60 years to supply free Bibles to Eastern Europe and the surrounding nations, is releasing the final episode of the season on their podcast, “55:11,” featuring an interview with their Ukraine Director. The title, “55:11: Ordinary People. Global God Stories,” comes from Isaiah 55:11, where every story is a living example of how God’s Word will accomplish its purposes.
This episode, “Ukraine Updates: Hope on the Frontlines of War,” wraps up the podcast’s first season with Dasha Novikova – EEM’s National Director in Ukraine – sharing insight about the Russian invasion and war that has taken place in Ukraine. She talks about the tragic realities of what it has been like for the Ukrainians, but also how she has seen God move in the chaos, with ever-increasing opportunities to share the hope of God’s Word with people in desperate circumstances.
WHO:
Dasha Novikova is the National Director in Ukraine for EEM, overseeing the distribution of thousands of Bibles and Bible-based materials across the country each year. Since the war began, she has also been managing the distribution of EEM’s humanitarian aid for Ukraine to ministry partners on the ground serving refugees in need.
Dirk Smith is the co-host for EEM’s 55:11 Podcast and Vice President of EEM, overseeing fundraising and marketing and assisting with U.S. operations.
Brooke Kehl is the co-host for EEM’s 55:11 Podcast and Marketing Director at EEM
Payton Armstong the co-host for EEM’s 55:11 Podcast and College Director at EEM
WHEN:
November 15
WHERE:
The 55:11 podcast episode is free and available at https://www.eem.org/5511podcast/ as well as many popular podcast platforms.
ADDITIONAL DETAILS:
Hosts Dirk Smith, Brooke Kehl and Payton Armstrong of EEM share inspiring stories of God’s Word at work globally in the lives of ordinary people. EEM publishes, prints and distributes Bibles and Bible-based materials in 30+ nations and in 20+ languages.
EEM was established in 1961 to provide Bibles and Bible-based materials throughout the former communist bloc countries in Eastern Europe. EEM recently delivered 225,000 Children’s Bibles in North Macedonia as a result of its Bibles for Kids fundraising campaign. The gift was recognized by both the Church and government as the largest book donation the nation has ever received. For more information, visit www.eem.org.
For more information regarding the 55:11 Podcast, visit https://www.eem.org/5511podcast/.
FOR MORE INFORMATION OR INTERVIEW REQUESTS, CONTACT:
Melany Ethridge
972-267-1111
melany@alarryross.com
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EEM Provides 225,000 Children’s Bibles to Former Communist Nation
HURST, Texas, Oct. 19, 2022 – EEM (Eastern European Mission), a ministry that has steadfastly worked for more than 60 years to supply free Bibles to Eastern Europe and the surrounding nations, recently delivered 225,000 Children’s Bibles in North Macedonia as a result of its Bibles for Kids fundraising campaign. The gift was recognized by both the Church and government as the largest book donation the nation has ever received.
The Archbishop invited EEM for a celebratory dinner at his residence in Skopje to celebrate the gift and effort to provide every child in North Macedonia with a Bible. Darijan Sotirovski, Director of the Committee on Relations with Religious Communities and Religious Groups, was in attendance along with Orthodox Church officials. Sotirovski serves as a mediator between the Church and governing bodies and helped coordinate importing the children’s and teen Bibles into the country.
Church leaders expressed their thanks by recalling the nation’s history. “Here the Gospel seed was sown first by the apostle Paul, but this country, like all the countries of the world, has a need for the message of Christ to be continuously shared with each new generation,” one leader said. “Up until 30 years ago, we lived under communism. Our churches and monasteries became museums and our parents were raised in the spirit that God was a fantasy. Thankfully, the faith of our people was preserved during communism by our older women and grandmothers. They had enough courage to fight for the faith in difficult times.”
Because of this, he added, many adults will also be impacted by the Bibles their children are receiving. “We believe the parents of our Macedonian children will also read these Bibles and be brought into faith, too. Please allow me to give thanks to EEM. You are providing for the need of our younger generation to know Christ and providing for those who are wanting to know Christ an opportunity to practice what they are learning in their lives. On behalf of our children, I say thank you.”
Bartosz Rybinski, EEM’s Vice-President in Europe, explained how the funds were raised to make the Bible donation possible. “Some of the donors who gave their own money to help Macedonian children receive a Bible were children in America,” he said. “Many saved their allowance so they could donate Bibles to North Macedonia. So it's not just wealthy people, it's the little ones – those who often are the same age as the children receiving a Bible here.”
North Macedonia is following the example of many eastern European nations, including Ukraine, which have invited EEM to distribute Bibles throughout the public school systems for use in the teaching of Christian education and ethics classes. EEM is able to receive government approval for the distribution because of the dramatic difference it makes in student behavior. “We saw in a neighboring country, that after one year of Christian education for children being introduced in the schools, youth delinquency dropped by 17% in one single year. This is why we want to see faith education provided in all schools,” the church leaders explained.
EEM President Bob Burckle expressed appreciation for the Macedonian church leaders’ welcome. “The kind of hospitality we experienced immediately upon arrival at the airport and throughout our stay has been overwhelming,” he said. “It is clear how grateful these leaders are for their partnership with EEM and how much they value the gift of God’s Word for the children of their country. Their commitment to share God’s Word inspires us.
“These 225,000 Bibles are only half of the number that was requested for the children of North Macedonia,” Burckle added. “God willing, EEM will be able to raise the money to print and deliver another 225,000 in 2023.”
Macedonian church leadership concluded with a word about the impact this donation will have far into the future: “The mission and the call of the church is not confined to a building or a country’s borders. And with this immense gift of yours, you have once again stated that. Many generations to come will be grateful they have had the opportunity to know our Savior and the Word of God. What you learn when you are a child, you take with you throughout your entire life. This is important for younger generations, and a beautiful pathway for them to find the real truth in their lives.”
Despite the global pandemic and resultant supply chain issues, EEM distributed 1.5 million Bibles and Bible-based materials in 2021. At the start of 2022, the ministry had already received an additional 1.9 million requests, which continue to pour in. EEM is inviting disciples of Jesus everywhere to partner in this work to fulfill all of these requests, with individuals and churches encouraged to participate in the fall fundraising campaign, “Million Dollar Sunday.”
To learn more about EEM or to make a donation, visit https://www.eem.org/mds.
About Eastern European Mission
Eastern European Mission (EEM) was established in 1961 to provide Bibles and Bible-based materials throughout the former communist bloc countries in Eastern Europe. Today, EEM publishes and prints Bibles and New Testaments as well as Teen Bibles, Children’s Bibles and coloring books, distributing them through a vast network of partner churches and organizations reaching more than 32 countries in 23 different languages, including Farsi and Arabic. For more information, visit EEM’s website at www.eem.org/.
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Media Contact:
Melany Ethridge
972-267-1111
melany@alarryross.com