SGA has supported ministry in Israel for many years—serving Russian-speaking congregations and helping reach families who have come from across the former Soviet nations. Today, that ministry carries a unique urgency. Many who fled conflict in places like Ukraine have arrived in Israel seeking safety, only to find themselves once again living under the threat of war.

Yet even in these difficult circumstances, God continues to work through His church. Believers in Israel are finding creative and faithful ways to reach people with the Gospel—despite legal, cultural, and security challenges. In some cases, churches are even using guided tours of biblical sites to connect with those who have little knowledge of the Holy Land. As people come and begin asking questions, they are invited to learn more—and there, in the fellowship of believers, they hear the truth of God’s Word.

In Ashkelon, one SGA-supported congregation recently held a women’s ministry gathering under extremely difficult conditions. Their testimony is a powerful reminder that even in uncertainty, the Lord is faithful to open doors for His Gospel.

A Ministry Report from Ashkelon, Israel

The following report is shared directly from the church:

Greetings, dear brothers and sisters, in the love of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. We are deeply grateful to you for your financial support in organizing the women’s ministry.

Unfortunately, the event did not take place as we had originally planned. War broke out, and due to missile attacks from Iran, we were unable to host everyone who wanted to attend. The Home Front Command imposed restrictions limiting gatherings to no more than 50 people. In addition, our church does not have a bomb shelter, so we met in the home of one of our ministry families who does have one. However, since gatherings in courtyards were also restricted, we were only able to invite 30 women—the maximum that could fit in the house. Still, we thank the Lord even for this, trusting that everything is under His control.

There were 14 unbelieving and 16 believing women present. We met some of the unbelieving women during evangelistic tours. Initially, 39 unbelieving women had planned to attend, but due to frequent missile attacks, many were afraid to come, and we were not able to accommodate everyone anyway.

Women’s Seminar

The meeting was very warmly received and deeply needed during this difficult time. Among those invited, I especially remember Irina.

Less than a year ago, she, her husband, and their daughter immigrated to Israel from Russia. Her husband is disabled and struggles to move around due to diabetes and related complications, including obesity, edema, and endocrine issues. Their daughter has a serious bone disease. We met Irina during an evangelistic tour, and she began attending the church. Their daughter also started coming to our children’s Christian club. Our church is doing its best to support this family.

Also present was Grandma Olga, an 87-year-old refugee from Ukraine. She came to know of the Lord in our church and is on her way to faith in Him.Her daughter, who is raising two young children alone, was also at the meeting and is likewise seeking the Lord. We try to support them both spiritually and materially.

It is unfortunate that the format of this letter does not allow us to describe each guest in detail. This women’s gathering was like a breath of fresh air in such a difficult time. We have been living in a state of constant war for four years. Many husbands and older children are in the army, while younger children study mostly via Zoom because it is unsafe to attend school. Kindergartens are also closed. At the same time, women must work to support their families. They are exhausted—both physically and emotionally.This meeting helped them step out of their daily routine.

The first part included worship, followed by a reflection on God’s Word on the theme: “God’s Victory Through an Obedient Heart” (Esther 4:14). For if you remain silent at this time, relief and deliverance will arise for the Jews from another place and you and your father’s house will perish. And who knows whether you have not attained royalty for such a time as this?

At the end, we held a workshop on creating flower arrangements, followed by a shared meal. The women were moved to tears of joy. Praise God, there were no missile attacks during that time—it felt as though we had returned to peaceful days. The Lord allowed us simply to fellowship, be nourished by His Word, enjoy creating beautiful bouquets, and share a meal together. For believers, it was spiritual encouragement; for unbelievers, it was a testimony of God’s love and an introduction to the church.

A Message of Gratitude

Thank you so much. You have not just given us financial support—you have given us a sense that we are not alone, that there are people who care about us. We live in a small country surrounded by enemies, and we often hear much negativity directed toward us from around the world. At times, it is frightening. But when we receive such support for our ministry, we feel your love and care, and the fear of being alone fades.

We trust in the Lord, in His protection and provision. He cares for us through your hands. May the Lord bless you. Please do not abandon us—we would find it much harder both to live and to serve without you.

With deep gratitude and love,
The sisters of the church
Ashkelon

Continuing the Work God Has Set Before Them

This report is a powerful testimony of how God is working through His people—even under restriction, uncertainty, and danger. From small gatherings in homes to conversations that begin on simple tours, the Lord is drawing people to Himself.

Through your prayers and support, SGA helps strengthen these Russian-speaking congregations so they can continue sharing the Gospel, equipping believers, and helping those who feel forgotten.

Please continue to lift up these women, their families, and the church in Israel—that God would sustain them, protect them, and use them to shine the light of Christ in a very dark time.