Erin Olander

Where in the world is Vilnius, Lithuania? A place that one year ago I could barely pinpoint on a map has turned into a place that has marked me forever.

In July 2019 I spent 3 weeks in Vilnius, Lithuania with some missionary friends of mine. I went there asking the Lord if Vilnius was supposed to be a part of my future. After experiencing the culture, meeting the people, and understanding the need, I knew beyond a shadow of a doubt God was asking me to take a step of faith in considering spending 2 years of my life in Vilnius.  Since arriving back in the States, I have been approved to serve as a Missionary Associate with Assemblies of God World Missions. 

Lithuania is a place that is riddled with depression; with suicide rates ranking a the top of the world, and the highest of that in the European Union. Along with knowing this, feeling the heaviness and oppression throughout the country and seeing the sadness and emptiness in people’s eyes created a burden deep within me. In spending time in Vilnius, I knew God was asking me to be a part of what he is doing in this city; to help bring hope and purpose to Lithuanians in the Name of Jesus.