Denis Z.
SGA-Supported Missionary Pastor in Ukraine

Greetings in the Lord! Thank you for your prayerful and financial support of our ministry, which we carry out for the glory of God. We strive to demonstrate the love of Jesus Christ through our lives, both in word and deed.

Last winter in Ukraine was very difficult, especially for regional cities. In Odesa, there was no power for a week straight, and multi-story buildings had no water. Even in such circumstances, we can show people the love and warmth that God gives. Sometimes the tasks are considered menial, but God uses them. For example, I helped people carry water up more than 10 floors. People were shy and uncomfortable accepting help, but I had the opportunity to tell them about Christ—the One who walked through cities and preached even though He could have stayed in one place and waited for people to come to Him.

We also launched free haircuts. Inna, a professional barber on our team, agreed to serve with the gift God gave her. We offer this service at the church: when people come for a haircut, there is an opportunity to chat and have tea. Usually when people come to the service, they sit and remain silent, but at haircuts the atmosphere is different—there are fewer people, and they’re more open. You can have deeper conversations about God, life, family, and explore their personal needs.

Our son David was eating when an elderly man walked into the church—dirty and unkempt. David approached him and shared some sausage with him. This was unusual for David—he had never done this before.

An older woman named Nina also comes to us. She often arrives earlier to chat. She tells her children about the church. Her daughter Ekaterina was applying for a job with many applicants and asked me to pray for her. A month later, she was hired. Nina has been feeling unwell lately—she’s 87 years old. She came to church on Sunday to thank everyone for the prayers on her daughter’s behalf. Unfortunately, she became ill and went home, but she came specifically to share this news and to praise God. She also said that we might not see each other again because God was taking her. She expressed gratitude for the church opening in her area and for her hearing the Gospel!

We live on the second floor, and our windows overlook the courtyard—we heard how people talked about us before and how differently they talk about us now. It’s a great blessing that nine people in our building now attend church, and we have a teen ministry as well. When we first arrived, we were treated like a cult. Thank God that we can show Him through our lives and be His witnesses! Thank you to everyone who supports us in your prayers. May the Lord bless you!