| It was six months ago that we woke up to the news that Russian tanks had rolled into Ukraine and started a vicious war that is, even today, stealing the lives of many innocent people. Today is a poignant moment to stop and reflect on the fact that the war has pushed nearly a third of all Ukrainians out of their homes; 5.6 million have fled to neighbouring nations and 7.7 million are sheltering in other towns and cities within Ukraine. Over 5 million children have been affected by the war, suffering unimaginable horrors, some like those of Alexandra whose story we shared with you last week. There have been reports of untold atrocities from places like Bucha, Sumy, Mariupol and Kharkiv. Russian soldiers have committed crimes that can only be described as pure evil and we have heard traumatic testimonies from women and children who, filled with terror, have had to leave their fathers, husbands and sons as well as their homes. Some Ukrainian cities exist under the constant thud of indiscriminate bombing. And there is no end in sight. And yet... |
| There are churches in Ukraine who, in the last six months, have been overcoming this evil with good. We’ve seen churches fling open their doors to welcome those who have left their homes, we’ve seen thousands of people receiving meals lovingly made by church volunteers, we’ve seen volunteers risking their own lives to drive across the country to provide for those who are stuck and we’ve seen brave young men running between the bombs to take food and medicine to the elderly and disabled. This has been God’s Church in action and you’ve been a valuable part of this response through your prayers, your giving and your compassion. These are some of the messages that we’ve received from churches in Ukraine that because of you, we’ve been able to support; ‘We want to express our gratitude to you! For all your goodness and all that you do for people in this difficult time! Thanks to you, we have everything we need for a normal life, [whether] it's food and medicines or hygiene products! You are the best, thank you for being you and for doing so much for our people!!!’ ‘Gratitude for such necessary help at this time, wonderful food and hygiene kits, and medicines! Our child is happy to go to children's groups on Saturdays, and after receiving gifts, he was squealing with pleasure!’ ‘God has done incredible things through your church, He has given me peace, and I can tell you that! I do not come to church for food, but to receive God's peace. And then I live with him all week. Thank you!’ ‘I haven't seen so many kind and compassionate people in a long time. I especially want to mention the volunteers at our church. These good people simply restore our faith in man, leaving no refugees like us neglected. Thank you very much.' And so, as Putin’s evil war continues, with no end in sight, we want to say thank you. Please continue to help the church in Ukraine to overcome evil with good by considering one of these actions; PRAY – as Ukraine celebrates Independence Day today, for an end to the war and for continued strength and courage for the churches, so they can continue to serve their communities. GIVE – consider a regular gift to our Ukraine Response and help us launch the Resilient Families Programme, bringing healing to families who have endured so much trauma. SEND – a message of encouragement or a prayer to one of the church leaders that we’re supporting by clicking here. Thank you. |
