World War II divided Europe into Western Europe and Eastern Europe. Following the war, Joseph Stalin made Eastern Europe a “buffer zone” by establishing communist governments that would be subject to Moscow. He believed that this move would ensure that Russia would be protected from any future military threat from the West. Although World War II ended in 1945, Western Europe and Eastern Europe are still referred to as separate regions of the continent to this day.

While communism ravaged Eastern Europe economically, genuine Christianity thrived under the tyranny of godless leaders and repressive regimes. The work in Romania HeartCry participates in is one of the oldest regions in which we labor, second only to Peru. While geographically located on the continent of Europe, social, economic, religious, and historical factors contribute to distinguishing the region of Eastern Europe from western and southern continental Europe. This language is distinguished from the region of Eurasia by the fact that Russian is not the primary language spoken by citizens.

HeartCry has been privileged to respond to the Macedonian call, as we partner with many missionaries all across Europe. Presently, we support more than 25 pastors, church planters, and evangelists in Eastern Europe in Romania, Moldova, Kosovo, and Ukraine. Their Gospel work encompasses literature translation and distribution, open-air evangelism, church planting, discipleship, theological training, and student ministries.