Michael Johnson: Hope Behind the Headlines in the Slavic World

On today’s FRESH NEW PODCAST, host Dave Wager opens with 1 Corinthians 12:26, a reminder that the Body of Christ is connected, when one member suffers, we suffer together. His guest is Michael Johnson, president of Slavic Gospel Association, who also brings a strong communications background to the role. Michael began his career in international advertising (1986–1995) as an account manager and supervisor serving major consumer brands, then moved into nonprofit agency leadership at KMA Direct Communications and Douglas Shaw and Associates, serving as Senior Vice President for 11 years before rejoining SGA. In this conversation, that blend shows up clearly, he’s telling the story of gospel work with clarity, history, and real-world outcomes, while emphasizing that the mission stays rooted in faithful local churches.

Michael walks listeners through SGA’s roots and purpose. Founded in 1934 by Peter Deyneka, the organization began by supporting believers behind the Iron Curtain through covert Bible distribution and Christian radio partnerships, strengthening Christians who often had to listen in secret at great personal risk. Today, the focus is still the same at its core, equipping local churches instead of sending western missionaries, with a network that includes thousands of evangelical Baptist congregations across the former Soviet region. Michael notes he is building on the biblical and ministry foundation laid by Peter Deyneka and Bob Provost, with Bob continuing to advise as President Emeritus. As the discussion turns to the war in Ukraine, the theme becomes practical compassion, the church as a visible refuge, including their “Heat and Hope” effort to resource churches with generators and supplies so they can serve as centers of warmth, help, and gospel hope during harsh winters.