Russia: Riding to Hope

Church planters Viktor Nenashev and his wife, Valentina, are using their experience with hippotherapy* to connect with the people in Belogorsk, Russia. They’ve learned that meeting people’s needs by helping their children has opened doors and broken barriers. Individuals have even offered them free use of horses for children needing therapy.

In 2021, two of the children that they treated using horseback riding began to walk. And doctors noted significant improvement in the development of another child. One of the parents has shown interest in their faith and asks questions on spiritual topics.

They also extend their help to others in the community. When they learned of a man who became sick, they helped him and his wife with housework. Their continued assistance for the next few months resulted in a closer relationship with the couple. The man sadly passed away before he was able to be baptized, but he did so in complete peace with God. His wife is one of the 16 that regularly meet for worship every week.

Viktor and Valentina express much gratitude to all who have blessed their ministry. “We believe that the seed sown will bear abundant fruit for the salvation of many! Thank you for your faith and support!”

*The use of horseback riding as a therapeutic or rehabilitative treatment to improve coordination,Riding to Hope