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President of LEA: Rev. Vadim Kovalev
E-mail: vadim.kovalev@lea.lv; lea@lea.lv
Website: www.lea.lv
Mobile phone: +371 8605440
Phone / Fax: +371 7554131
Address: A. Kalnina iela 8 – 8
Riga, LV – 1050
LATVIA
Profile of Latvian Evangelical Alliance
In the context of Latvia, Latvian Evangelical Alliance could be described with three words – Initiative, Unity and Voice.
After 50 years of being under Communist regime, the first generation has grown up in independent Latvia, where every one can freely worship God also outside the Church. Now Christians are more accepted by society in high positions, however people are still very hesitant towards denominational churches. As LEA, which was founded in 2002, does not represent any particular denomination, it is more accepted from non-Christians. LEA has its Voice, which is heard in the Parliament and the Government of the Republic of Latvia. We are thankful to our Lord for many politicians who support LEA.
Unity is LEA’s strength. It unites evangelical churches in Latvia promoting mutual understanding which also facilitates better relationships between society and church as the whole.
It was LEA’s Initiative, some years ago, to start church planting in Latvia. LEA gathered Christians from Evangelical denominations and shared with them the vision. In the beginning there where involved just some individuals, but now Church planting is a part of a vision of all the biggest Evangelical denominations in Latvia and the strategy how to spread Gospel through our nation. LEA has also truly supported organization of National Prayer Breakfast which is held annually in November and has become a nation-wide event, gaining acceptance by more and more Latvian businessmen and politicians.
Fulfilling LEA’s vision for mission, LEA takes part in Mission days held every year and supported by major mission organizations in Latvia. In 2009, LEA is looking forward to facilitate Evangelistic festival in Latvia conducted by Franklin Graham. LEA has also been the first who acted as the sending organization for Latvian missionaries going overseas for long-term mission (Papua New Guinea).
Latvian Evangelical Alliance is lead by President and Council, which is elected from LEA member’s Conference. President and the Board in their mission are guided by the Council’s resolutions. The focus groups are established by the Council of LEA. Currently we have 10 focus groups such as Prayer group, Missions group, Church planting group, Youth group, Business group, Social care’s group, however, in the future we would like to expand our job even more. LEA has good cooperation with other mission organizations working in Latvia, for example, Bridge Builders International, Agape Latvia, Latvian Christian Students Brotherhood and Alpha course.
Taking into account the economical situation in Latvia (high rise of inflation), the biggest challenge for LEA has become rising its financial support. It has become an even bigger challenge in relation to the Festival of Hope 2009, conducted by evangelist Franklin Graham. LEA also has increasing need for volunteers. During the last years many activities (such as Alpha course etc.) have outgrown into independent movements and there is a great need for LEA to develop united network of those small undertakings, so the work could be coordinated and performed more effectively. LEA is seeking God’s advice to organize its work in relevant manner so it could satisfy growing spiritual needs of the society in Latvia. LEA’ s leaders, as well as focus group leaders are involved in many activities and currently we see for them a danger of burning out.
In spite of all the strains of difficulties and hardships LEA is looking for any opportunity to spread God’s word. In summer 2008 we are planning the fourth Bible reading marathon for five days in one of the towns which is celebrating 80 years of establishing. During the marathon there will be given a great emphasis on Christian values for society and family. There will be Bible readings, praying and concerts every night.
We are also happy to announce that in Latvia there will be the third annual Singing Christmas tree, which is interdenominational event and some of the most famous Latvian artists will perform. This is an excellent opportunity to proclaim the good news for the whole nation.
Prayer requests:
1) Pray for our leaders, so they would have integrity, sensibility and understanding of our nation’s needs and could prove themselves as godly leaders.
2) Pray for the clear vision of LEA as we seek God’s wisdom how to be relevant for Latvian society in its growing spiritual needs.
3) Pray for successful work as we organize the fourth National Prayer Breakfast, this year we expect about 500 participants – high level politicians, business people and well known people of Latvia.
4) Pray for success of the Festival of Hope 2009, conducted by Franklin Graham, as well all other activities, such as Singing Christmas tree, etc. May God impact people and use us as His tools in changing people’s lives.
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