It began with a long journey—more than two days of travel by train. But what followed was a powerful reminder of how God is at work through His people in Ukraine . . . even in the midst of war.

Early that morning, at a local aid center led by SGA-supported missionary pastor Dima, a steady stream of men and women arrived—each carrying the heavy weight of displacement, loss, and uncertainty. Many had been driven from their homes. Many were trying to rebuild their lives from nothing.

Yet before any aid was given, something more important took place. The Gospel was shared.

Standing outside the building, Eric Mock, SGA’s Senior Vice President of Ministry Operations, was asked to bring a message of hope. As people gathered, they listened—some for the first time—to the life-changing truth of God’s Word. Then, one by one, they entered the center, where they received biblical counsel and encouragement before being offered practical help like groceries, clothing, and school supplies.

This is the heartbeat of SGA-supported Compassion Ministry: meeting urgent physical needs while pointing people to Christ.

Later that morning, ministry leaders from across Ukraine joined together online. Their voices lifted in praise to God as they shared testimonies of His faithfulness. Again and again, the same theme emerged—God is working through His church, and He is using the prayers and generosity of believers to sustain and expand that work.

From there, the team traveled into nearby villages.

While some areas remain too dangerous to enter due to ongoing fighting, these communities—though still under threat—were accessible that day. At each stop, local residents gathered. Once again, the Gospel was proclaimed. Once again, aid was distributed.

And once again, gratitude overflowed.

Many were astonished to see a visitor from America. Even more, they were deeply moved to learn that believers they had never met—like you—cared enough to help provide for their needs. But what touched them most was the message of hope found in Christ.

In one small church, around 70 elderly women—many lonely, weary, and struggling—sat together to listen. As the message was shared, tears streamed down their faces. Tears of joy.

One woman approached afterward, overcome with emotion, expressing her thanks. She was gently reminded that there are thousands of believers praying for her—standing with her in faith, even from far away.

The day ended with a gathering of about 30 pastors from the region. Together, they worshiped. Together, they shared stories—of Bible training, of outreach in their communities, of Christmas ministry through SGA-supported Immanuel’s Child outreaches, and of Summer Bible Camps that bring the Gospel to the next generation.

As they reflected, a realization became clear: God had been faithfully providing for their ministries all along—through the support of believers who give, pray, and partner in this work. And yet, their response was not self-focus, but humility.

They are pressing on. They are proclaiming the Gospel with boldness. They are serving as true heroes of the faith.

As Eric shared at the close of the day: “Without them and their faithful efforts, we have no ministry.”