As evening approaches in war-torn Ukraine, so does a familiar sense of fear. Families brace themselves for the now-common sound of drones and missile attacks in the night. Sleep is often shallow and interrupted. Parents lie awake listening for explosions in the distance, uncertain what the next hours may bring.
Yet when morning comes, there is relief. Another night has passed. There is gratitude for God’s protection and strength to face a new day. Across Ukraine, many experience this emotional rhythm—fear in the darkness, and renewed hope with the dawn.
Even in times of devastation, the Lord’s mercies are new every morning. His work continues. Churches are open. Believers gather. And the Gospel is still advancing—sometimes in the most remarkable ways.
Read more from SGA Storyteller Angela’s firsthand account of a day in her life in Ukraine . . .
The morning was bright and beautiful—a hot, sun-soaked day . . . near the Black Sea. It felt like a gift after yet another night of fear. Just hours before, Shahed drones had flown low over rooftops, their now-familiar buzzing leaving hearts shaken and sleep interrupted. Explosions had echoed in the distance. And yet, that very morning, believers gathered for a baptism—a bold celebration of new life in Christ.
When asked if she was nervous, the woman who was about to be baptized—a mother in her 40s—smiled and said, “Why should I be worried or nervous? I am thankful and joyful that I can fulfill Jesus’ command.”
In a culture where baptism can carry mystical or traditional connotations, her answer revealed something deeper: a clear, joyful understanding of obedience to Christ. Her words reflected a faith that had grown quietly but powerfully over the past year.
You see, it was exactly one year ago that she first walked into the church—not as a believer, but as a mother coming to watch her daughter get baptized. That day stirred something in her heart. “I felt God’s love here,” she said again and again. She started attending a “Foundations of Faith” class, repented of her sins, and slowly began walking with Jesus. Now, one year later, she was standing in the water herself, ready to declare her faith publicly.
As Pastor Maks read from Scripture, he reminded everyone that baptism is both a personal proclamation and a public testimony. This woman was declaring to herself and to the world: She belongs to Jesus. She is a new creation. And she is not ashamed.
Despite the intense heat and the fear left behind by the previous night’s attacks, a large group came to witness the baptism. Their presence was a testimony in itself. People are still coming to church. Still choosing Christ. Still seeking truth, fellowship, and hope—no matter the cost.
It was a deeply joyful day, marked not only by celebration, but also by courage. A baptism in wartime is more than a tradition. It’s a declaration: God is still working!
Through fear, through fatigue, through the darkest nights—He is calling people to Himself. His Spirit is not stopped by air raid sirens. His grace is not dimmed by drones in the sky. And His Church is still growing—one life at a time.
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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.
