Anita Deyneka has a long history of ministry to the people of Soviet and post-Soviet cultures, including children. She talks with Wayne Shepherd. (click for more)
Websites: missioneurasia.org Read about giving a gift of hope at Christmas
Anita Deyneka is a longtime missionary, author, and advocate for vulnerable children, whose life and ministry have spanned the Soviet era, the collapse of communism, and the current crisis in Ukraine. Raised in Washington State and called to Christ at age 11, Anita later married missionary Peter Deyneka Jr., joining the influential Slavic Gospel Association founded by his father. Together they supported Christian radio broadcasts, distributed Bibles, and worked closely with persecuted believers across Eastern Europe and the Soviet Union—efforts that sometimes resulted in denied visas due to their advocacy writings.
After communism fell, Anita played a major role in expanding ministry opportunities, including leadership of Peter Deyneka Russian Ministries (now Mission Eurasia) and development of programs for emerging Christian leaders. Her deepest long-term focus, however, has been orphan care. Inspired by Ukrainian believers after the Soviet collapse, she helped encourage national movements such as Ukraine Without Orphans, Russia Without Orphans, and eventually the global coalition World Without Orphans, now active in over 90 countries.
Today, Anita’s central concern is the plight of Ukrainian children affected by Russia’s 2022 invasion, including the forcible abduction of more than 20,000 children into Russia and Russian-controlled territories, where they are separated from families, indoctrinated, or even forced into military service. She urges prayer, awareness, and support for bipartisan U.S. legislation aimed at ensuring the safe return of these children and upholding family unity.
This conversation reflects Anita’s lifelong commitment to bringing the hope of Christ to vulnerable communities and championing the well-being and protection of children in crisis.
NEXT WEEK: Douglas Shaw
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