Editor’s Note: The following report and images were provided by an SGA Storyteller in a Ukraine.
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What was it like to be a part of the early church? Can you imagine meeting in secret at people’s homes—in spite of the persecution of the occupying forces in your country? Can you picture feeding the hungry, caring for the poor, preaching the Gospel, and seeing lives changed every day? What happened so many centuries ago is happening right now, in Ukraine. And the church is thriving.
The way our brothers and sisters describe church life in Ukraine seems straight from the pages of New Testament. Here is one report directly from a courageous believer . . .
Our Ukrainian city is in a very difficult military situation. It is a front zone for the conflict and there is constant fighting, cannon shells, and explosions to be heard. But the amazing thing is that in the city life goes on. People realize that they have no other choice but to continue to live their lives and do their work.
Our small church gathers in a semi-basement. We hold services and social programs. Brothers and sisters from our church are sincerely grateful to the Lord and SGA, and to all people who are very concerned about the Ukrainian people.
Most of our region is now under occupation. Often the city is shelled, many schools, kindergartens, enterprises, private factories and plants have simply closed because there is no work. People are poor, in despair and constant fear. Our Heavenly Father is especially blessing His children through the ministry of SGA and believing, dedicated, and loving people of God. We are grateful for all of you!
Our church also serves as a shelter for many nearby people. Brothers and sisters are constantly at church and ministering to all people in need. We love the Lord greatly and try to fulfill His commandment . . . .what you did to one of these little ones, you did to Me (Matthew 25:40)
We have many elderly people gather with us. We read the Bible with them, sing, talk, and have tea together. Amidst the tragedy of this war, hearts are being changed and many are searching for God. It is such a blessing to see lives being transformed as people are being fed—not just physically, but spiritually as well. This is all made possible by supporters like you, who believe in getting the Gospel message out to those who are hurting and in need.
A lot of children also come and study their lessons at our church place, as we always have electricity and they can recharge their devices. We also spend time with the children to read Bible stories together. The children love to sing! We always have something to eat for the hungry kids. Like all people who live in big cities, there are great financial difficulties, as many people do not have jobs. That is also when we distribute food packages from you, dear friends, again and again, as we see tears of gratitude in people’s eyes. We heed the words of Jesus, and feed the hungry and the poor.
We thank the Lord endlessly for you and your mission and to all who donate to serve our people. While we are on this earth, we “do good and do not lose heart.” May God reward each one according to His riches! We hug you and pray that in all this ministry, the Lord may be glorified!
Sincerely your brother in the Lord,
Viktor
Viktor mention lives being transformed daily. Here is one such story about what Jesus is doing in the country of Ukraine . . .
Viktor and Valentyna came to our church to seek shelter back in May 2022. It was very loud and scary then, because it was the beginning of the war and the explosions were only increasing in intensity.
Later, we gave them a food package. Valentyna began to attend church services and a Bible study group. She repented, and Christ touched her heart. In 2023, she was baptized. Valentyna said that she prayed that God would help her to serve her husband properly, that the Lord would open his spiritual eyes and that he would realize what a sinner he was and that he needs to be saved.
Over time, Viktor began to come to Sunday services. One day the Lord revealed Himself to him and came into his heart. Viktor is now preparing for his baptism. Isn’t that a miracle? This is how, through the grace of God and the ministry of SGA, people find peace for their souls in Jesus Christ and in the church of God!
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