Slovakia
The Land and the
People
Following World War II, Slovakia joined the Czechs of Bohemia to form Czechoslovakia. A Communist coup took place in 1948. Peaceful protests brought about the collapse of the Communist regime in 1989. The Czechs and the Slovaks separated in January 1993.
Religion
About 60 percent of Slovaks are Roman Catholics. Protestant churches are also widely supported. About 73 percent of Slovaks claim church membership.
Past and Current
Work
Slovakia was the first field for Baptist Mid-Missions in Europe. Dan and Ida Feryance were assigned to Czechoslovakia in 1946. Many were won to the Lord before the Communist coup in 1948 led to the early departure of all BMM personnel in Czechoslovakia. The Feryances began ministry in France.
After the door to Slovakia opened again in 1989, the Feryances reopened the ministry in Slovakia, even though they had officially retired. Each return visit brought excellent reports of people being saved and discipled as well as ministry opportunities waiting for a new generation of God-called and equipped missionaries.
John and Lydia Gouge arrived in Slovakia in 1993 and settled in the town of Kezmarok. Their first two years were spent studying the language, helping the Baptist church in Poprad, and teaching in other Baptist churches in Slovakia. Phil and Dianne Schmitt arrived in Slovakia in 1995 and assisted the Gouges until their move to Ireland. Baptist Mid-Missions has acquired a 100-year lease on property in Kezmarok, providing church, office, and housing facilities. Baptist Mid-Missions is officially registered in Slovakia, giving us a wide open door for service. The congregation in Kezmarok has been organized into a Baptist church.
Goals
Prospects for ministry in Slovakia are great. Pray that God will speedily provide additional missionaries to assist in the ministry of planting churches as well as serve in a Bible institute and with youth ministries.
The Gypsy population is large, and there is a great need for someone called of the Lord to bring them to Christ.