“I have two children who are former drug addicts, and both are HIV-infected. Your programs helped me talk to my husband about their condition. Because of your help, I believe our family will stay together.” – Nadezhda
Estimates vary, but more than 1 million Russians are infected with HIV. Most contracted the disease by injecting themselves with drugs through dirty needles. The virus continues to spread through sexual contact, which makes HIV/AIDS a rapidly growing epidemic. If the trend continues, Russia will have several million people infected with the deadly virus in 2-3 years.
Through a generous grant from Tearfund, a relief and development organization working in partnership with Christian agencies, FEBC-Russia has become involved in a broadcast project called Choose Life, which deals primarily with HIV/AIDS issues.
The program is broadcast live in Moscow and St. Petersburg, and later re-broadcast throughout Russia. Dr. Evgeny Sarapulov, a trained psychologist and former university dean who is now an FEBC broadcaster, is in charge of the project. Every week he interviews HIV/AIDS experts on the air, who explain to listeners the dangers of the disease, preventative measures, and the root of the problem: man’s sinful nature. The program also addresses problems such as strained relationships when a loved one suffers from the disease.
Dr. Sarapulov has ten years experience working with terminally ill cancer patients, helping them deal not only with their pain and fear, but leading them to the true source of hope and joy by introducing them to Christ. Sarapulov also invites people who are infected with HIV/AIDS to be guest speakers on his program; they talk about their experiences and how God has helped them.
In addition, Choose Life distributes CDs to those who work with people infected with the virus. Many have been reinvigorated with hope as a result of this program.
Oksana: “Someone understands our pain...”
“I was invited to the HIV/AIDS prevention conference, where I met Evgeny Sarapulov. I told him I recently discovered I am HIV-infected. He understood my situation thoroughly. My husband and I will be listening to his programs; it is good to know that someone truly understands our pain. I now feel that I not only can defeat my depression, but also help others live a hopeful life.”
Rehab Worker: “Prison Officials see Christians as helpful ”
“Your programs are very helpful spiritually, morally, socially, and psychologically for those infected and for those living with HIV/AIDS patients. Your programs are distributed in many prisons here, and they are especially appreciated in jails with underage criminals. Since these materials are professionally produced, they help prison administrators see how helpful Christians can be.”
Elena: “I work in a center for dying children”
“I work in a center for children dying from HIV. Their parents are at complete loss. When I met Evgeny at a conference in Moscow, he gave me CDs of his radio program and resources to help parents care for these children. I have been looking for this kind of material for a long time. Thank you, FEBC Russian Ministries! You are doing a very important work!”
Learn More> My Worldview Changed - listeners have found some unique ways to share FEBC's broadcasts.
> Russian Family in Peril - The Russian family is in crisis. FEBC Russian Ministries is making a difference.
> Hear Russian Broadcasts Online
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