For many, the recent holiday season was joyous with celebrations of our Savior’s birth and gatherings with loved ones. But in Ukraine, widows are still struggling and challenged by extra responsibilities and loneliness.

Let’s lift them up in this new year and ask the Lord to grant them the peace that only He can provide. May they see Him through new eyes in the days ahead—even in their pain. And may all of us cling to this truth . . . For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are My ways higher than your ways and My thoughts than your thoughts (Isaiah 55:9). 

Viktoria, a widow in Ukraine, shares from her heart . . .

My first Christmas as a widow.

How are the wives of fallen soldiers living now? The war in Ukraine continues. Its impact is even more palpable in winter when almost every night, your city is bombarded by missiles and drones. When the energy system is destroyed, you are forced to sit for long hours without electricity. For many families living outside the city, the lack of electricity means not only darkness, but also no water or heating. For women who have lost their husbands, winter is especially difficult, as they must manage household responsibilities and care for their children under such challenging conditions.  

But this time is not only physically exhausting—it is also emotionally draining. Winter is a season of holidays. Holidays are meant to be a time to spend with family and loved ones, sharing joyful moments together. For those who have lost their husbands, sons, brothers, or fathers, the holiday season becomes an abyss of loneliness. You feel isolated and incomplete.  

You have no one for whom to prepare a gift, and you don’t expect to receive one from anyone. Everyone around is filled with joy, while you wonder where you can hide and simply endure these days. In your memories, there are only moments that remind you there will never again be happiness shared with your husband.  

Like a child, I find myself hoping someone will remember me and give me a gift. It doesn’t matter what it is—it’s the attention and care that matter. I want to feel needed, to know I am not alone.  

I long to hear words of support, words that tell me I can make it through this journey. I remember my first Christmas Eve without my husband: an empty house. I didn’t cook because there was no one with whom to share the moment. Everyone else was happy, gathered with their families at their tables.  

I lit a candle, placed the framed photo of my husband with his insignia beside it, and simply cried. All I wanted was for someone to embrace me. I used to love the holidays, but now I don’t know how to survive them.

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.