On May 25, 2025, Velmema Church in Saransk (Mordovia) celebrated its 30th anniversary. On May 23, 1995, the Lutherans there first received official state registration.

We congratulate the congregation, its faithful parishioners and ministers there! May the Lord continue to strengthen their missionary zeal and pour out His blessings upon their diverse outreach initiatives. Two young men from Saransk are currently studying at the Theological Institute – God cares of minister growth in the congregation.

The story of Lutheranism in modern Mordovia started with two brothers: Alexei Aleshkin (senior pastor now) and Andrei Aleshkin (1959-2021, a famous artist). They participated in establishing contacts between Mordovia and Finland. During his studies in the Leningrad Academy of Arts, Andrei Aleshkin formed an acquaintance with pastor Arvo Survo, the renowned Ingrian Finnish missionary. Later pastor Arvo visited Mordovia.