Ukraine (MNN) — As winter approaches, pastors in Ukraine face increased challenges as well as opportunities to share the gospel.
“We’re working with about 2,200 churches in Ukraine,” says Eric Mock with Slavic Gospel Association.
“Many of the pastors even struggled to reach people in the past. Now these churches are overflowing. So there’s always someone needing counsel, someone needing food, some family who is struggling.”
(Photo courtesy of Slavic Gospel Association)
In the past year, the Russian military hit more than 50% of Ukraine’s energy sector over a six-month period.
“I remember being there when the missiles were coming down,” Mock says. “You’d hear the explosions. You’re going to bed and it’s 33, 34 degrees in your bedroom. During the day, the anxiety is there. So these churches are vital in the middle of this.”
Regarding Russia’s strategy this winter, Mock says, “We’re expecting that what they’ll do is start targeting the electrical systems so that people can’t get warm during the winter.”
Today, you can help pastors carry out vital ministry by giving to SGA’s Frontline Pastors Christmas Campaign. This will provide fuel, snow boots, groceries, and other necessities to church partners in former Soviet nations like Ukraine.
“We’re trying to equip these churches to be centers of hope, and that hope doesn’t come through just warmth. It comes through the proclamation of the gospel.”
Pray for God to overwhelm Ukrainian churches with His grace and endurance in this key season of ministry to the hurting. Stay tuned for SGA’s future campaign for Ukrainians called Heat and Hope, starting early this winter.
(Header photo courtesy of Slavic Gospel Association)
