Odessa, Ukraine, is a large, progressive, Russian speaking port city on the north shore of the Black Sea. Before moving to Odessa, we all traveled here several times with International Messengers, our mission agency.  

We feel this is the best overseas mission opportunity for us as we have done ministry in this culture for years and we know the staff that is already in Odessa. We also are familiar with the ministry there and we can serve in Odessa using the English language which would allow us to jump right into ministry. We have been studying basic Russian just to live in Ukraine and get around, but we will be able to do some ministry in English.

See http://www.theodessaguide.com/ for more information on Odessa.

SOUTHERN UKRAINE

Cultural Background
In Southern Ukraine there is a vast cultural gap between city and countryside. Some of our ministry is directed at city dwellers and others are for those from the countryside.

City Life
Odessa is a city of over one million residents, the largest in Southern Ukraine. It is located on the coast of the Black Sea. Odessa is an ethnically diverse and action packed city. Residents of Odessa usually converse in Russian. Though the city experiences many urban problems, Odessites are known for their perseverance and appreciation of humor. Many residents live in concrete high-rise apartment buildings constructed under the Soviet Union, shop in outdoor markets and celebrate New Year as the most appreciated holiday. Odessa is a city of contrast. On a trip through the city, one notices elaborate mansions surrounded by high walls and guards, as well as old decrepit structures housing extended families. Some Odessites drive the latest model imported automobiles and shop at exclusive boutiques. Others beg on the streets and live in areas of the city that are so poor that there is no need for trash collection.

People from Odessa typically are used to fast paced life, have studied many languages and take fashion very seriously.

Country Life
There are many small villages in Southern Ukraine. Inhabitants of these villages often live without running water and manage to survive somehow off the produce from their gardens. Country life involves much physical labor.

People from more rural areas are typically early risers, punctual and more easily fascinated by foreigners.

The Crimean Peninsula
This is a unique and historically rich area of Ukraine. There is a large population of both Russian and Tartar people.

Language
The official state language is Ukrainian, a very old, poetic and beautiful language that is closer to Polish than to Russian. City people often laugh when they hear it and are reminded of fairy tales, farmers' jokes and the Ukraine of 200 years ago. Russian is typically the language of liberalism, modernism, and economic success. Although in Western Ukraine, there is a strong Ukrainian-speaking nationalistic interest. Most worship songs, discipleship material and Bible translations used in Central, Eastern and Southern Ukraine are in Russian. There is also a strong interest in learning English and German among those desiring to improve their life circumstances through business or immigration.

Churches
Historically, there are three main churches that have shaped the image of believers during the centuries: the government-backed Russian-Orthodox, the "sectarian" Baptists and Pentecostals and the "nationalistic" Lutherans and Catholics. After the breakdown of the Soviet Union other types of churches appeared in Ukrainian cities such as small free evangelical home churches, charismatic "Mega-Churches", and other religious groups such as Jehovah's Witnesses and Later Day Saints.

Baptists and Pentecostals still have a strong legalistic tendency. In some churches men and women do not sit together during services. Sometimes men are expected to wear dark suits and ties. Women are expected to have long hair; wear head coverings (if married), long skirts, and no make-up.

Meal Times
One of the most important elements of Ukrainian culture is fellowship around the table (particularly in celebration of special occasions). At first bite, meals may seem quite greasy and not very spicy. However, Ukrainian cuisine has a long and highly esteemed tradition. Breakfast may include fish and course barley (kasha). Lunch includes soup (often borsht) and a combination of meat, kasha and cabbage. The evening meal is often a lighter version of the noon meal. Bread and potatoes are staples.