History
The region of Serbia and Montenegro was settled by people that migrated there
from the Russian steppes. The Ottoman Empire had great political control over
the area for centuries, but the people earned independence in 1878. After
World War I, they became part of the Kingdom of Serbs, Croats, and Slovenes.
The name was changed to Yugoslavia in 1929. After the Nazis were pushed out
in World War II, communism was established under Josip Broz Tito. But in 1991,
communism began to crumble. Deepening economic crisis, ethnic fighting, and
political upheaval sparked civil strife that lasted nearly a decade. Only
after international intervention and popular uprising was Serbia and Montenegro
again free.
Church
History
Religion is very important to the people of Serbia and Montenegro. It is
considered one of their most distinguishing characteristics. Most Serbs
and Montenegrins are Orthodox, while most Albanians - another ethnic group
in Serbia and Montenegro - are Sunni Muslim. Pentecostal believers from
the United States and Europe began evangelism and church planting in Serbia
and Montenegro in the 1930s. After WWII, contact with believers outside
the country was difficult because Christians were “watched”
very closely.
The
Movement Today
The church survived persecution and ethnic cleansing and emerged even more
ready to evangelize. Today, churches are being started throughout the former
Yugoslav provinces. People everywhere are seeking peace and freedom from
warfare and unrest. They are turning to the Gospel. The Assemblies of God
in Serbia and Montenegro report the following statistics: 65 churches, 80
ministers, 9,000 members and adherents, one Bible school with 10 students,
and one extension program with 25 students.
Additional
Facts About Serbia and Montenegro
Capital:
Belgrade
Area:
39,517 square miles
Population:
11,206,039
Ethnic Groups: Serbian 63%, Albanian 14%, Montenegrin 6%,
Others 17%
Languages: Serbo-Croatian 90%, Albanian 5%, Hungarian and
Romanian 5%
Agriculture:
Cereals, fruits, and vegetables
Economy: Steel, machinery, consumer goods, mining, electronics |
