At last, I am back in Ukraine for an extended journey across the country. The intensity of the war has increased rather than diminished since my last visit, and so has the suffering of the civilian population.
Yet the pastoral couple continues their humanitarian work and leads the congregation, now based in Kramatorsk. I visited them, took part in a food distribution effort, and delivered a financial contribution—including support for repairs to a vehicle previously donated by Livets Ord. As mentioned, the roads near the front are in very poor condition and take a heavy toll on vehicles. I also had the privilege of preaching in the basement facility where the congregation now gathers. The room was small but packed with people, with others standing in the hallway outside. There are few places—large or small—where I would rather preach than under circumstances like these. The gratitude for visits, prayer, and fellowship is profoundly evident.
Kramatorsk itself is also subjected to constant attacks. Two days before my visit, three apartment buildings at a street intersection were bombed, and drones remain a continual threat. A young woman I spoke with told me that the windows of her apartment had been shattered on five separate occasions due to shockwaves from bombs and drone strikes.
Kramatorsk itself is also subjected to constant attacks. Two days before my visit, three apartment buildings at a street intersection were bombed, and drones remain a continual threat. A young woman I spoke with told me that the windows of her apartment had been shattered on five separate occasions due to shockwaves from bombs and drone strikes.
This has been everyday life for many people for more than four years. Children have been born and are now growing up under wartime conditions, and even those living far from the front line face uncertainty. Yet there are places throughout the country where people find hope and purpose amid it all—and those places are the churches. It is inspiring to meet believers who, though weary, continue to serve the people in their cities with such dedication and love.
During my journey, I met several pastors who are now actively preparing to help traumatized people—and there will be many of them—especially once the war is over. We need to continue praying for reduced suffering and for lasting peace in Ukraine, while also standing alongside fellow believers through practical support and prayer.
/Toni Gadd
