Lauris Zukulis

In the southeastern part of Latvia there is a region called Latgale. This region has a long history of independence and was only incorporated into Latvia proper by a treaty in 1920. Some would say that Latgalian in a dialect of Latvian. Others would say that because Latgalian has its’ own standardized written form that it is a separate and distinct language. The Latgale region has a large ethnically Russian population especially in the city of Daugavpils, but most Latgalians would consider themselves to separate from this group as well. The region is strongly Catholic by confession and fiercely independent.

For many years, in fact, for generations both Latvian and Russian speaking Latvian Baptists have attempted to start evangelical Baptist churches in this region. None of these efforts have succeeded. The consensus of opinion has been that this is primarily due to the fact that all of these efforts have been attempted by non-Latgalians. In addition, none of these efforts have been attempted in the Latgalian language. This lack of church planting success in an area of such need has led to a long and passionate prayer effort. Now, in the 2009 class of BPI students, we believe God has begun to answer these prayers.

Lauris Zukulis is one of our 2009 students. He has come to faith out of a Catholic background. He is a gifted artist and is passionate about sharing the gospel. There are two other things that we are praising God for in bringing Lauris to study and prepare for ministry here at BPI. You see, Lauris is Latgalian and believes that God is calling him to start the first Baptist church in the Latgalian language!

Please pray with us as we train, equip and encourage Lauris to follow God’s call. Pray that Lauris would be strengthened in this pursuit and that God will provide the resources he needs to launch a church planting church in the Latgale Region!