Slavic Missionary Bible School

About SMBS

This five month program is designed for Slavic-American young adults. The mission is to teach fundamental biblical knowledge and inspire students take part in missionary work. SMBS was established in 2005 and was a catalyst for all the programs and schools under SMBS Ministries.

This is the longest, most comprehensive full-time program in the United States among Slavic people that unites students from numerous churches, states, and countries.

Our program places heavy emphasis on missionary work, equipping students to go to many nations. We minister to people of different nations, socioeconomic statuses, and age groups locally in Jacksonville as well as different parts of the world.

We teach and equip Christians to be strong, active leaders and to build exemplary families. SMBS curriculum gives students the opportunity to not only gain Scriptural knowledge and grow spiritually but also to develop self-discipline and Christian character. Most importantly our graduates earn ministry experience that is vital in serving people.

Our major focus is to:

• Teach Biblical foundations
• Assist in determining calling
• Provide practical ministry experience
• Prepare missionaries through intensive training
• Arrange short and long term missions trips to various countries
• Support full-time missionaries and plant churches
• Conduct camps for young adults and teenagers
• Serve the local community

Our Vision

We choose to live according to HIS will by focusing on these Biblical principles:

Matt 28:19 “Go and make disciples…”
Mark 16:15 “Go and preach to all nations…”

Therefore, we teach and equip our students with fundamental Biblical principles while developing their ministry skills. We aim to raise strong Christian leaders, so that they may plant churches and serve people of different cultures, social statuses, and age groups: locally as well as globally.

Admissions

SMBS is accepting applications from prospective students who are 18 and agree with our Statement of Faith. Applications should be filled out by the applicant.

School Term Dates: January 8th, 2025 (Wednesday orientation) to May 24th, 2025 (Graduation). Students are required to participate in Sundays service on graduation weekend Sunday May 25th, 2025.

Fill out the on-line application for Admission. Application deadline is November 30th. If you apply after November 30th, 2024 11:59pm EST, please be prepared to pay a $100 late registration fee in addition to your total tuition.

Please do not forget to familiarize yourself with our Rules and Regulations.

*Please note: When you submit your application, your check will be cashed. However, this does not mean that you are accepted to SMBS. In the event that you are not accepted, you will receive a full refund of your deposit.

Program Cost

The program cost is $4,900 + a $50 non-refundable application fee.

Due with application submission: $550 ($500 deposit and $50 application fee)

THE PROGRAM COST COVERS:

• Tuition
• Housing
• Utilities
• Meals (breakfast and lunch Mon-Fri)
• Events

PAYMENTS BREAKDOWN:

• $50 application fee is non-refundable**
• $500 conditionally refundable** deposit, counts towards program cost
• $4400 balance is due by December 15th 1:00pm EST (late fees apply*)

The tuition cost does not include missionary trip expenses.

REMAINING BALANCE PAYMENT OPTIONS:

Due date: December 15th at 1 pm EST

• Online

• • Balance: $4,400 + $120 (CC fees)
  • Pay your tuition balance by logging into your account. 
  • Go to smbs.churchcenter.com >>> Log In >>> Me >>> My Registration >>> Need Attention >>> Pay Balance
• Check 
  • Balance: $4,400 (CC fees do not apply)
  • Checks payable to SMBS
  • The envelope must be postmarked on or before the due date above
  • Mail the check to SMBS Admissions, 2016 Anniston Rd. Jacksonville, FL 32246

• Payment Plan
  • Balance: $4,400 + $490 (payment plan fee) + $120 (CC fees)
  • Fill out a payment plan agreement – contract.
  • The first payment of $ $978.00 must be made online by the due date above.

* LATE FEES:

• $100 late application fee for applications submitted after November 31st, 2024
• $200 late fee for payments processed after December 15th, 1 pm EST
• $50 late fee for monthly payment plan payment past due, see schedule above.

** REFUND POLICY:

• Application fee – non-refundable.
• Tuition deposit after an official acceptance – non-refundable. Once you have been accepted to the program and you change your mind about attending or your circumstances change, you will NOT receive a refund of your deposit. In the event that your application is denied for various reasons, we will refund your tuition deposit in full.

• Credit card processing fee – non-refundable.
• Late application or late payment fee – non-refundable.
• Payment plan fee – non-refundable.

TAX FILING:

SMBS program cost is not eligible as an educational institution to issue Form 1098 -T for a tax write-off.

DISCOUNTS/SCHOLARSHIPS:

• $100 designated driver discount (discount application)
• Scholarship Application (apply by Oct. 31st)
  • Application
  • Scholarship Recommendation Letter (must be filled out by a Church Leader)
• $250 LSC Member Discount (Application)

Downtown Jacksonville

Jacksonville is the largest city in Florida by population and the largest city by area in the contiguous United States. It is located on the shores of the Atlantic Ocean in the northeastern part of the state. With warm temperatures throughout the year and dozens of beaches nearby, Jacksonville has unlimited recreational possibilities.

The city is divided by St. Johns River that flows through the city’s downtown which is lined with skyscrapers and bridges.

Jacksonville Beach Fishing Pier

The Atlantic coast of Northern Florida is a popular spot for surfing, swimming and boating. The Jacksonville Beach Fishing Pier is an accessible spot for fishing, with no license required.

Downtown St. Augustine, FL

One of the closest most historical cities to Jacksonville is St. Augustine. It is located a short 45 minute drive south of Downtown Jacksonville.

This city is the oldest continuously occupied European settlement in the continental United States. Jacksonville is also about two hours away from Orlando, a popular theme park spot.

Curriculum

Much thought and prayer was invested in developing a curriculum that would allow students to gain Biblical knowledge, develop a personal relationship with God, learn to serve others, and prepare for missions.

Below are some of the major highlights:

• Intensive 5 month program lasting from January to June.
• Classes are held Monday through Friday from 9 am to 4 pm.
• Methods of teaching include: lectures, exams, group work, presentations, literature reading, and a wide variety of practical activities that allow students to gain ministry experience.

IN SCHOOL ACTIVITIES

In-class Lectures

Teaching is done in a lecture style with a wide use of multimedia totaling approximately 700 hours. Students have the privilege of gaining knowledge from a new instructor each week which adds variety and diversity.

Group Presentations

The class is divided into small groups and given a choice of topics for their presentation. The presentation must last 50 minutes and follow specific guidelines with each student taking an active role in participation.

Video School

Once a week, along with the teacher’s classroom lectures, students obtain additional knowledge through our unique video school program. It includes various films, documentaries, and talk shows. This resource prepares them for evangelizing, mission trips, and expands their overall worldview.

Exams

Each Monday, students will have an exam on the content that was presented the prior week. Questions will be available in only in English in multiple choice, short answer, and fill in the blank formats.

PRACTICAL AFTER SCHOOL ACTIVITIES

Good Deeds

A vital part of the SMBS curriculum is to help students develop sensitivity to the needs of others. Once a month, throughout the semester, students are required to find people with a need and respond to it by serving them practically. Students are given specific instructions and guidelines necessary to complete this assignment.

Jail Ministry

Our purpose is not just to give students the Biblical knowledge necessary for ministry, but also to provide the opportunity to learn to witness to people of different backgrounds, socioeconomic statuses, and age groups. We have developed a close relationship with our local juvenile detention center where local young people, under the age of 19 are detained. Our students go there prepared with skits, songs and powerful personal testimonies. Students learn to witness to young people on a personal level, pray for them, build relationships and call them to repentance.

Homeless Shelters

Another method of witnessing and serving the community involves weekly visits to the local homeless shelters where students help prepare and distribute dinners. In addition, students have the opportunity to sing, share testimonies, witness, and pray for the homeless men and women.

Nursing Homes

Often, the older population feels neglected and alone. With this in mind, SMBS students visit local nursing homes to spend time with the elderly living there. Students take time to talk about the Word of God, sing, organize events, listen and provide encouragement.

Street Evangelism

The class is divided into teams that take turns going into the streets of Jacksonville where they witness to people about God. This personal evangelism method, gives them the opportunity to not only tell unbelievers about Christ, but also gain experience and confidence which are crucial for work in the missions field.

Student Prayer

Students also have weekly group prayers, where they uplift each other, pray for needs, and have fellowship. Moreover, we strongly believe in developing a strong personal relationship with God; therefore, students have the opportunity to participate in a program that requires them to spend at least one hour daily in personal prayer and devotion.

Student Church

Along with a wide variety of practical experiences, SMBS offers students the opportunity to lead weekly student church services. They are divided into teams and are responsible for conducting a service from beginning to end.

Choir

All students partake in choir and attend weekly rehearsals where they are exposed to music appreciation and vocal training. The choir will participate in local church events and take trips to different churches in various states throughout the term.

Homework

Daily Bible Reading

Since the foundation of our school is the living Word of God, all students are encouraged to study the Bible on a deeper and more personal level. Each student is required to read a minimum of three chapters of the Bible daily.

Weekly Bible Verse

Key Bible verses are assigned to be memorized weekly which develops the ability to speak the Word of God from memory.

ADDITIONAL ACTIVITIES

Bible Quiz

Developing a discipline and passion for reading and studying the Word of God is one of the core goals of SMBS. In reaching this goal, the school administration uses a variety of methods. One of these methods is the Victory Bible Quiz, which is conducted annually on the school campus. The quiz is conducted in a very contemporary game show style with a host and an audience. It is based on a book of the Bible that students are given ahead of time to study. The students not only have a great opportunity to deepen and test their knowledge, but also to receive a monetary reward for first and second places to use toward the missions trip. The Bible Quiz is a bright and memorable project, which leaves an impression on both the participants and the viewers.

Missions Preparation Course

This unique course was designed by SMBS to provide students with as much resources as possible for missions. It includes one week of classroom instruction and one week of training outdoors where missions conditions are simulated. The content of this course includes descriptions of living conditions on the missions field, cultural variations, local customs, a large variety of practical methods for evangelizing, team dynamics, personal testimonies of current and previous missionaries and many other tips that are necessary for effectively conducting work on the missions field.

Choir Bus Tour

Students take trips to other churches in various cities and states to serve and encourage other Christians to get involved in missions and ministry. They travel in a charter bus, participate in church services, have great fellowship with the local youth, meet many new friends and get a chance to sightsee the US. One 2-3 week trip across the country is taken per semester.

Car Wash

The main purpose of this project is to help raise funds for missions department. Car washes at SMBS are very unique and exciting events. Dressed in SMBS t-shirts, with signs in hand, students encourage people to get a car wash. While washing cars, we offer refreshing drinks, provide an overview of the missions trip, and share our personal testimonies. This is one of the best ways to witness to people and to raise funds.

Church Services

A required part of the school curriculum is the attendance of the local “Living Stream Church” for personal encouragement and fellowship with local Christians. Students take part in both the church and youth services by preaching, singing, and sharing testimonies.

Talent Show

One evening in the semester is devoted to allowing students to show their talents and unique abilities in the areas of art, music, and drama.

Sports

Due to the intensity of the school program, it’s hard to find much free time; however, when the opportunity arises, students enjoy playing soccer, volleyball, and basketball. Courts and fields are located on campus.

Graduation

Upon successful completion of the program and the satisfaction of all the necessary requirements, students are granted a Diploma of Completion. Graduation is an exciting and big event at SMBS. It marks the beginning of a new chapter in each of the graduates’ lives. Many guests and parents from all over the United States join us for this special time.

LIST OF COURSES

Biblical Studies

• Bibliology
• Survey of New Testament
• Survey of Old Testament
• Hermeneutics

Doctrinal & Historical Theology

• Biblical Theology
• Apologetics
• Angelology & Demonology
• Pneumatology
• Church History
• Ecclesiology
• Eschatology
• Christian Ethics
• Christian Psychology

Missions & Evangelism

• Methods of Evangelism
• Personal Evangelism
• Practical Missions Prep Course
• World Missions & Church Planting
• World Religions

Ministerial Studies

• Foundations of Leadership
• Homiletics
• Spiritual Formation
• Preparation for Ministry
• Christian Counseling
• Effective Ministry in Postmodern Society
• Prayer & Fasting

Electives

• Children’s Ministry
• Youth/Teens Ministry
• Marriage and Family
• Drama Ministry
• Choir
• Fund Raising methods

Practical Ministry Courses

• Street Evangelism
• Homeless Shelter Ministry
• Jail Ministry
• Good Deeds Ministry
• Children’s/Teens Camp Internship
• Missions Trip

*Courses might not be offered based on instructors availability.

Student Services

Our goal is to help you grow spiritually, obtain a firm foundation, and develop a strong love for God and people. While going through this growing process and adapting to a new environment far from your family, it is our sincere desire that you would feel supported and encouraged.

Counseling/Advising

Throughout the learning process, there might come a time when you will be in need of advice, encouragement, or counseling of a spiritual leader. We would like you to know that there are trustworthy people available to listen, offer support, and pray for you individually.

Fundraising Classes

Often you wonder where will you get finances to go on a mission trip. Besides praying for God to provide, you will be able to attend classes that will show you numerous effective methods that will enable you to raise money for your missionary trip, your group and specific missionary projects.

Financial Assistance

One excellent way to receive individual financial assistance of up to $2,000 is to study the Word of God and participate in the Victory Bible Quiz. First place winners receive $1,300 and second prize winners receive $700 that can be applied towards their missionary trip.

The second option is to apply for a scholarship. If you have a strong desire to attend SMBS yet do not have the resources to do so, we would like to offer you the opportunity to apply for a scholarship by filling out a Scholarship Application. There are a limited number of scholarships available and will be based on financial need, your goals, recommendations, and application info. Applications are available until November 30th before the school semester.

Live Streaming

Don’t forget to let your family and friends know that they can see you online weekly by watching our church services and SMBS special events. The Living Stream Church website is: www.lscjax.org

Orientation

Orientation is mandatory for all enrolled students. The purpose of orientation is to thoroughly familiarize the students with the program, our policies, schedules, extracurricular activities, special events and staff. Orientation time and date is located on the admissions tab. Duration: 2 hours.

Student Life

Student life is an unforgettable time! We would like for you to feel welcome and comfortable in a new city, state, church and living arrangement. Below you will find some important information about your stay in Jacksonville.

Housing

SMBS rents houses that we use as dorms where a groups of students live together. The houses are specially prepared, furnished, and equipped to ensure a comfortable living experience.

You may provide us with a preference, but ultimately your placement will be determined by the administration. Upon your arrival, your lodging info including the address and roommate(s) will be provided.

Transportation

We strongly recommend that you bring a vehicle so that you can be more independent and are able to serve others. You can still come to SMBS even if you do not bring a car, and we will assign you to a roommate that has one or provide you with transportation for the school term. If you are able to bring a vehicle and willing to drive other students to and from school, you will receive a $200 discount that applies towards your tuition (limited discount spots available).

However, if you specify that you will be bringing your car but your circumstances change, and you are no longer able to do so, you MUST notify the school administration immediately.

Meals

Included in the tuition cost are two full meals, breakfast and lunch, which will be provided in school Monday to Friday. Students are responsible for their own dinner and all meals on the weekends. Each dorm house has all necessary utensils and kitchen equipment to prepare meals. There will also be some meal expenses on choir tour.

Arrival Info

Student arrive starting Monday before orientation. There will be an SMBS representative waiting to greet you no matter how you arrive to Jacksonville.

• If you are arriving by airplane, you must email us your itinerary. We do not accept any verbal arrival info. Please make sure that the date, time, airline company and flight number are included. A school representative with an “SMBS” sign will greet you at Jacksonville International Airport (JAX) and take you to your place of lodging.
• If you are arriving by car, contact a SMBS representative and you will be given the dorm house address.

Rules and Regulations

The following rules were designed so that each student is aware of the expectations that we place on them as they prepare themselves for Christian ministry.

SMBS staff is concerned not only with academic performance but also with the Christian character development of each student. Please carefully read over and familiarize yourself with each rule before applying to SMBS.

General

1. All students are required to obey the school’s rules, regulations, and administration.

2. As Christians, students must respect the upbringing, views and opinions of others.

3. Students are required to provide the administration with a written explanation for any absence from class, which is to include a specific and acceptable reason.

4. All students are required to be punctual and arrive on time to all in-school and after-school activities and events.

5. Students are required to attend:

       a. ALL in-school and after-school activities

       b. Attending the scheduled local church, either Living Stream Church or Vision Church

6. Students will bear consequences for every complaint made against them outside of the school such as for misbehavior, inappropriate conversations, violation of dress code or any form of damages.

7. During the duration of the school semester, students are not allowed to work. This includes working full-time, part-time or remotely. Students are not allowed to take online classes unless authorized by administration.

Classroom

8. Students are not to disturb the discipline established by the instructor or by the administration.

9. Students are required to complete and submit all assignments given by the instructor or administration by the set deadline. Points will be deducted for all late submissions.

10. Cell phone / smart watch use is prohibited during class and church services.

11. Students cannot change their assigned seats in class without permission.

12. Leaving the classroom during class time is not allowed. Students will have 10 minute breaks between class periods and one hour break for lunch.

13. Eating is strictly prohibited in the classroom during lecture.

14. Class disruptions that are forbidden:

       a. Talking and disturbing others during lectures.

       b. Sleeping during lectures.

       c. Listening to music during class.

       d. Using ANY electronic devices during lectures.

15. Students are responsible for the cleanliness and upkeep of the school building. Those on duty are responsible for the general cleanliness of the classroom, kitchen, and restrooms.

Dress code

16. Students must abide by the following dress code in school and in church:

(1 Timothy 2:9)

Ladies

       a. Should wear casual attire that is appropriate in a professional office or church environment.

       b. Shirts must be long enough to completely cover your rear.

       c. Skirt and dress length must be below the knee length and may not have a high slit.

       d. Shirts must have sleeves. Absolutely no tank-tops, off shoulder tops, spaghetti straps or tube-tops for any activities, and in church.

       e. The neckline of any blouse or dress may not show cleavage.

       f. Hair must be kept neat, clean and well groomed.

Ladies are not allowed to wear:

       g. Destroyed pants or jeans (no rips, slits or torn)

       h. No leggings

       i. No jeggings

       j. No leather pants

       k. Extravagant earrings or jewelry, all jewelry must be dainty 

       l. No Shorts, Flip-flops, Slippers. 

Gentlemen:

       m. Should wear casual attire that is appropriate in a professional office or church environment.

       n. Hair must be kept neat, clean and well groomed, no longer than shoulder length. No ponytails, man buns or braids.

       o. Must wear jeans, khaki pants, or dress pants. Absolutely no sports pants, or ripped jeans.

Gentlemen are not allowed to wear:

       p. Absolutely no sleeveless shirts.

       q. Shorts, Flip-flops, Slippers.

       r. Absolutely no earrings

Both genders:

Throughout the semester, which includes school, school-related activities, church, at home or in the dorm house, students are not allowed:

       s. To have facial and/or body piercings

       t. To have unnatural hairstyles and colors

       u. Hats and headwear are prohibited indoors.

Students must abide by the following dress code for all church services. 

Ladies :

       v. Must wear a skirt or dress. The length must be below the knee length and may not have a high slit

       w. Shirts must have sleeves. Absolutely no tank-tops, off shoulder tops, spaghetti straps or tube-tops 

       x. No jewelry when on the stage

Gentlemen:

       y. Must wear dress pants 

       z. Must wear a polo or collared dress shirt

17. Every Friday, students are to wear the school t-shirt which will be provided.

18. Students are required to wear their own name tags every day during class and may NOT write on them.

Housing & Transportation

19. Every student is responsible for the upkeep and cleanliness of the room or dorm house, which they are provided to live in. If they live with a host family, they are to be respectful to the host family.

20. All students must arrive home no later than 11:30PM and not leave earlier than 5AM. Quiet hour is in effect at 12AM (midnight)

21. Student must spend the night only in their assigned housing arrangement. Spending the night elsewhere is allowed only with the consent of the administration.

22. Organizing gatherings or parties without the approval of administration is strictly prohibited.

23. The maximum number of guests that are allowed in a dorm house is 10. They are not to stay past 10 pm on any given day.

24. Irresponsible/illegal operation of a vehicle is strictly prohibited. It endangers not only your life but those around you.

Christian Morals

25. During the course of the school semester, students are not allowed to start dating. This only distracts from your studies and the purpose of being here.

26. Conduct that is strictly prohibited between ladies and gentlemen:

       a. Holding hands.

       b. Sitting on each other’s lap.

       c. Hugging.

       d. Kissing.

       e. Giving massages.

       f. Swimming together.

       g. Drive together in a vehicle alone.

       h. Having sexual relations.

27. Behavior that is strictly prohibited:

       a. Use of vulgar words or expressions.

       b. The use of physical force in resolving arguments.

       c. Theft.

       d. Using or selling alcohol.

       e. Using or selling tobacco.

       f. Using or selling recreational drugs, vaping, e cigs or narcotics

       g. Getting a tattoo.

       h.  Getting any piercings.

i. Check-in for anyone other than yourself

28. Students are not allowed to:

       a. Listen to music or watch movies that contain crude or profane language, sexual and violent content.

       b. Visit pornography sites or inappropriate pages.

       c. Practice witchcraft.

       d. Play video games.

       e. Playing poker, gambling or game betting

       f. Take SMBS vehicle out of Jacksonville.

g. Bringing a pet to the dorm house.

h. Leave the city of Jacksonville without permission.

i. Have a firearm/weapon in or on school/dorm property.

29. Cheating on exams and any other in-class or out-of-class assignments is strictly prohibited. Lying is unacceptable.

30. It is forbidden to post inappropriate pictures online during the school semester or missionary trip.

Financial Obligations

31. Students hold a financial obligation for any damages to school inventory, school or church property, place of lodging or school transportation.

32. The school does not bear any responsibility for medical costs associated with illness, medical condition, trauma, or automobile accident.

33. If a student withdraws from school for any reason or if the student is expelled, he/she will not receive a tuition refund.

Disciplinary Actions

34. If a student demonstrates inappropriate behavior, the school administration reserves the right to deny him/her of being part of an SMBS missionary team, and will not be responsible for any financial losses that may come as a result.

35. For every violated rule or regulation, the student will face appropriate disciplinary actions. Once the student receives a written warning, parents will be notified. The written warning will be permanently placed in the student’s file. After receiving three written warning, the school reserves the right to expel the student without a tuition refund. Administration has the right to contact the student’s home church leaders.

36. Remember that in the case of outright violation of Christian morals and Biblical principles with behavior such as fornication, deceit, theft, alcohol, tobacco and drug use, the administration reserves the right to expel offenders immediately, without warning and tuition refund.

Conditions to receive a Diploma of Completion

1. The average grade at the end of the program must be at least a C (70% out of 100%).

2. ALL assignments, exams, projects, practical experiences and forms must be submitted.

3. The school holds the right to withhold a diploma from any student who receives three written rule violations or is caught cheating on exams or assignments.

4. Tuition cost is paid in full.

WELCOME ALUMNI!

Each year we pray that we have successfully fulfilled our mission when our students graduate and become alumni who serve the Lord faithfully on mission fields or in their local churches. SMBS staff would like to continue to serve you, learn from you and minister to your needs as you continue to grow in the Lord. For this reason, we are committed to staying connected by providing resources that can strengthen our relationships.

REUNION:

There was a time when your lives changed more than you could even imagine. A time when you first met, you learned, you prayed, you sang, you became friends, you graduated, and you went on missions! Please plan ahead to join us for our next reunion that will take place 2024!
You don’t want to miss out on the special weekend filled with many opportunities to reconnect with your classmates, administration, and friends!

https://smbs.org/programs/btc/

Alumni stories:

We would like to hear from you! Please email your story telling us where you are currently established and how you are utilizing your talents and passions that God has given you! Please email your story to info@smbs.org.

David Timoshenko

Broken Arrow, Oklahoma
SMBS Student 2008

Aleksander Shevchenko

Sacramento, CA
SMBS Instructor

Billy Graham once said: “If I only had three years to live, I would dedicate two of those years to education!” I believe that education is a great privilege. I have always liked to learn and still continue to educate myself by spending a great deal of time reading. Therefore, I strongly recommend to always be a part of the education process especially to the Russian speaking guys and girls, brothers and sisters, particularly when there is such an outstanding school, with such an exceptional atmosphere and with distinguished teachers who come from different countries and states.

The teachers are goal oriented and dedicate their time to explaining Biblical doctrines, principles, and views. The knowledge gained, will expand your worldview and horizons. You will receive an immense amount of fascinating and valuable information, which you would not have been able to obtain if you remained in one, unchangeable atmosphere. In my vision, Slavic Missionary Bible School in Jacksonville, FL is a definite answer from God for our youth in the United States. For that, I thank God and also those that partake in this ministry with obedience to God.

Natalie Globak

Portland, Oregon

SMBS Student 2007

Roman Sheremeta

Parma, OH

SMBS Instructor

Young people need to be ready for the last days.
We live in the last days. These are the days in which evil has multiplied (2 Timothy 3:1-5) and we see how hard it has become for young people to remain faithful to the Lord. These are also the days in which God has promised to pour out His Spirit on young people (Acts 2:17). The question is how can we raise a young generation filled with His Spirit when there is so much evil in the last days? The answer is in the Bible: “How can a young person stay on the path of purity? By living according to Your Word” (Psalm 119:9). The knowledge of the Word of God is essential for young people who live in the last days. However, it is very challenging to train young people, especially in the modern world of technology and constant distractions. Nevertheless, for several years, the Teen Bible School (TBS) has been successful in reaching out to teenagers in the Slavic community and teaching them how to live according to biblical principles.
TBS provides a unique opportunity for teenagers to study the Bible in a safe environment under the supervision of excellent instructors and leaders. I have personally witnessed how God is using TBS to raise up a new generation who will be ready to face the challenges of the last days. Working with teenagers is not easy. However, while teaching the course of apologetics at TBS I was inspired by other instructors and leaders because I saw their passion for the Lord and full commitment to teach Slavic youth to obey the Word of God. At the same time, I saw the hunger of young people to learn about God and to know Him personally. Excellent instructors and eager students create a unique environment at TBS for a great learning experience. I believe students who choose to go to the TBS will be well prepared to face the challenges of this changing world.

Svetlana Gulchuk

Prokhory, Ukraine

SMBS Student 2010 / Full-Time Missionary

Viktor Koroteyev

Vancouver, Washington

SMBS Instructor