Ukraine (MNN) — In war-torn Ukraine, people rely heavily on cell phones for information and communication. However, a cell phone is only as useful as the nearest charging port. Russian missiles have taken out over half of the Ukrainian power grid.
Eric Mock, vice president of ministry operations with Slavic Gospel Association, says, “Churches show me just a massive number of phones and tablets that are being charged. One of the greatest connection points for people is to stay connected with their friends and family in different locations, make arrangements to flee when they need to, [and] to find out the news on how things are proceeding.
“I’ve even seen a generator out on the street with at least 10 to 20 utility strips chained together and everyone on the streets stopping to charge their phones so they could stay connected in for an update on what’s happening with the fighting.”
(Photo courtesy of Slavic Gospel Association)
Since Russia invaded Ukraine over a year ago, SGA has been focused on meeting urgent needs with cast iron stoves, blankets, generators, and food. Now, the ministry is transitioning to a long-term ministry mindset to care for Ukrainians as the war drags on.
That’s why SGA is now also sending solar-powered battery systems to Ukrainian church partners.
Mock says, “These are very cost-effective and, given the fact that these are solar-based, many things can happen and they can still continue to have this opportunity to provide resources. They could run out of fuel. The power system in Ukraine is constantly under attack so they could run out of access to industrial electricity or commercial electricity. These survival kits may be exactly what they need.”
The first units have shipped to Poland and will soon be en route to Ukraine. Mock says the solar-powered battery units are also equipped “with digital lighting that can illuminate a sanctuary or even illuminate the grounds outside, whatever is necessary.”
As Ukrainian church partners distribute aid with the support of SGA, they are able to communicate the comfort of Jesus Christ.
(Photo courtesy of Slavic Gospel Association)
“What we’re trying to do is shift our focus to the long-term and look for ways that we can equip these churches to continue to minister to the people’s needs,” Mock says. “But that ministry to their needs is the open door for presenting the Gospel, and hundreds of thousands of people in Ukraine are hearing the Gospel that have never heard it before.”
You can be a significant encouragement with your support and prayers. Ask the Lord to comfort and strengthen Ukrainians and local churches amidst ongoing trauma and hardship.
Click here if you’d like to give to SGA’s Ukraine Crisis Fund.
“Remember those who don’t know where the next meal is going to come from; those who hide in a basement and don’t know if today’s missile or artillery shell will land on their house and it will be their last day.”
Header photo courtesy of Daria Nepriakhina via Unsplash.
