We continue to be humbled seeing God’s people not give up as the war in Ukraine continues. Through the generosity of friends like you, we are equipping SGA-supported pastors and churches to be the hands and feet of Jesus and to do good to all people . . . as Paul exhorts in Galatians 6:10.

Pastor Oleksandr is one of these faithful servants who is encouraged by your love and commitment. Please pray for Oleksandr and other pastors as you read his report. Ask God to strengthen them in their resolve to continue meeting physical needs, advancing the Gospel, and in applying “new rethinking in ministry.”

From Oleksandr . . .

We express our greetings to our friends in Christ with the love of the Lord!

We send our most sincere gratitude to all people, especially SGA, for showing love to our people in the days of tragedy and terrible war, always being there for us, even though you all live far away. You are with us with your hearts and prayers, and this encourages us and gives us strength. We are grateful for the love and care we see in your practice. You have truly “fed the hungry” (Matthew 25:37). Through your sacrifice, many unbelievers have heard the Good News, heard about God’s love for man, no matter how sinful he is.

The world is changing. Ukraine will never be the same as it was before the war. The new reality today requires new rethinking in ministry, directions and other approaches.

From the very beginning of this terrible war, our church has become a hub for churches in the region to distribute food to people who are in need. We continue this ministry now, but of course in much smaller amounts. But the most important thing is that we can share with people God’s love for them and the salvation that the Lord can give to those who sincerely believe in Him. With this food aid, we can boldly tell people about God’s mercy to them.

May our Heavenly Father richly bless you, your families and your ministry in His name!
Pastor Oleksandr

Translation:

Good day to you! With our two children (5 and 7 years old), we have been under occupation near Balakleya since the beginning of the war. Then we got to Merefa, Kharkiv region, and started going to an evangelical church. We are very grateful to SGA for all the help they give us. Thank you!

. . . If we pray to the Lord and ask Him for forgiveness, He will forgive us. I would like to read two passages from the Bible, from this Holy Book that God Himself has given to us. This war pushes us to God. Because when there is anxiety, when there is grief, we all run to God! If it were not for this war, we would not be standing here . . .

Testimony from another pastor in the region:

So, in the very beginning of the war I have been serving our people in my church. But later the invaders came, and we had to leave our homes. Now I am helping my brothers in Christ to serve here [in this region] and also I am serving in another church in the region. There is nothing more valuable as to be His servant and support my people here alone with you, our dear friends from SGA. Thank you for being involved in our pain, and that you are going through this tragic period with us, providing food aid! God bless you all!