Over the past three years, countless people have suffered due to war and displacement. Yet, even in these challenging circumstances, many brothers and sisters have boldly shared God’s love, serving those in need with unwavering faith. Their dedication calls us to support them through prayer.
Prayer:“Now may God, the fountain of hope, fill you to overflowing with uncontainable joy and perfect peace as you trust in Him. And may the power of the Holy Spirit continually surround your life with His super-abundance until you radiate with hope!” — Romans 15:13 (TPT)
Ukraine
A Journey Begins
Yuri shares a remarkable encounter with three young men—Vlad (17), Danik (18), and Rostik (18). After attending a meeting, Danik expressed his long-held desire to visit Yuri’s church, saying, “I’ve been following you on Instagram for a long time and wanted a chance to come to your church. I have so many questions for you! Let’s have coffee together.” This moment marked the beginning of a deeper spiritual journey.
“ALIVE” Camp for Children
This year, our five-day church camp gathered 86 children and 35 team members. Despite the ongoing war, we focused on the message that life must continue as God intends. We named our camp “ALIVE”, emphasizing every child’s right to a joyful and vibrant childhood. The camp was filled with joy, sports, and, most importantly, the Good News—that Jesus is alive, and all who believe in Him will have eternal life.
Upcoming Projects
Retreat for Military Veterans and Their Spouses We plan to host a retreat at a recreation center, inviting eight veteran couples. Our goal is to strengthen their relationships using practical tools from a “Marriage Course.” Please pray for this initiative.
Support Group for Wives of Fallen Soldiers Our church has trained extensively to support grieving families. We are prepared to start this difficult but essential ministry, using Christmas as an opportunity to visit families, bring gifts, and invite them to meetings. Please keep this mission in your prayers.
Future Plans
Despite the war, we must be bold in Jesus and dream big. God has placed on my heart the vision for a church building that will serve not only for Sunday worship but as a daily community hub. After a meeting with the town’s mayor and chief architect, we have begun the process of securing land for a 25-year lease with the possibility of full ownership. We pray that God will open doors, as He promises in Revelation 3:8: “I have put before you an open door which no one can shut.”
Stories of Transformation
Igor’s Journey from Addiction to Ministry In the past six months, eight people have completed rehabilitation at our addiction recovery center. One of them, Igor, had lost his family and purpose in life. Today, he actively serves in church ministry, having rediscovered joy in Christ.
Oleksandr’s Return to Faith A police officer from Chernihiv, Oleksandr left the church six years ago after a personal tragedy. Through home Bible study, he found healing, repented, and restored his church membership.
Ljudmyla’s Conversion at 74 Throughout her life, Ljudmyla was plagued with doubts. During the Russian invasion, Pastor Dmytro evacuated her and shared the Gospel. Upon returning home, she sought refuge in the church, found Jesus, and was baptized. Her favorite verse is Acts 4:12: “Neither is there salvation in any other: for there is none other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved.”
Dasha, Ksyusha, Leila, and Alina’s Transformation These young women rekindled their faith through an open-air movie night hosted by our church. Their stories remind us that God continuously works in people’s lives, drawing them closer to Him.
Belarus
Church Growth Amidst Opposition
Pastor Valery shares that, despite government restrictions on Christian gatherings, God’s work continues. Over the past months:
A student Christian conference welcomed 50 students, half of whom had never been to church before.
A new family—Yura, Olya, and their daughter Anastasia—began attending regularly after participating in a summer camp. Yura, now reading the Bible daily, was gifted a study Bible to deepen his understanding.
Overcoming Challenges in Ministry
Government authorities have actively prohibited church camps and youth programs. Some churches were forced to shut down camps midway. However, from July 31 to August 4, we successfully hosted a church retreat for 35 participants, including four non-believers. The retreat strengthened faith and fellowship, leading one young man, Kirill, to confess faith in Jesus after years of skepticism.
Testimonies of God’s Grace
Sasha & Lena’s Redemption Story After enduring failed marriages, Sasha and Lena began living together. Through countless conversations and prayers, Lena repented first, followed by Sasha a year later. They married legally and chose to be baptized, dedicating their lives to God.
Conclusion
Despite war, persecution, and hardship, the Gospel is thriving in Ukraine and Belarus. These stories are living proof that God is at work, transforming lives and building His Church.
We invite you to pray for these courageous believers, support ongoing ministries, and rejoice in the victories God continues to bring amid trials.
“I have put before you an open door which no one can shut.”— Revelation 3:8