Angela, an SGA Storyteller, had an unexpected opportunity to sit with a pastor from Vinnitsa at SGA’s Regional Ministry Center (RMC) in Ukraine last week. The conversation was one of heartbreak and encouragement. Heartbreak because of all the tragedy that they continue to see daily. But encouragement as well, as they talked about the ministry that never ceases to stop. Angela shares, “Pastor Volodymyr says that their church is just another tiny piece of the puzzle of God’s work that is being done through many churches in Ukraine. “We can’t just ‘sit on the benches’—we must live out our faith!”
Faith being lived out is in the headlines of this war! The pastors are leading the way. Please continue to pray for these faithful men who are fighting the other battle—the battle for hearts. Pray for their tireless efforts to reach as many souls as the Lord will provide.
“They call us and say, ‘We need potatoes!’ And so, we scour the region, search out local businesses, and pack a truck full of tons of potatoes and head over to the Kherson region. This recent trip was our 24th one. We get calls and questions about things like blankets, mattresses, and medical supplies. We find them from all over the country to take to the people there . . .”, says SGA-supported Pastor Volodymyr.
Since there’s no work or possibility to buy necessities like potatoes for people in the Kherson area since it is a front-line region, the living conditions are incredibly poor for the locals who continue staying in their homes. Once Volodymyr heard about the needs, their church did everything to start supporting the Christians and locals, and they continue doing so year after year. Yet the trips there aren’t easy as drones fly overhead often attacking civilian and volunteer vehicles, so the risk of even going there is always quite high. Yet, even with the danger, Volodymyr says that God continues to work to further His kingdom. This past month, their church celebrated their 100th Anniversary, and it was truly a joyful time of remembering everything that God had done throughout 10 decades. Despite the full-scale war, their church has grown, and the many ministries continue. Ministries like trips to the hospital, various children’s ministries, regular aid for people with special needs, and men’s and women’s groups are just some examples of the life of their church.
Pastor Volodymyr says that their church is just another tiny piece of the puzzle of God’s work that is being done through the many churches in Ukraine. “We can’t just ‘sit on the benches’—we must live out our faith!”
In a time of great uncertainty, God is bringing help, healing, and hope to the people of Ukraine through SGA-supported pastors, churches, a seminary, and SGA-supported Compassion Ministry. Be a part of God’s incredible work with your generosity and prayer support.
Your gift of compassion helps struggling people with emergency aid that generally includes Scripture materials, food, and hygiene supplies.