Two Years On: The Journey of Hope for Ukrainian Baptists
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…to see every baptist in Europe, Central Asia and the Middle East united in Christ
Two Years On: The Journey of Hope for Ukrainian Baptists
“For two years, EBF and the global Baptist family have sought to stand with our Ukrainian Baptist sisters and brothers as they have responded to the needs of their community. We have learned from them the importance of Christian hope and trust in the sovereignty of God. They have inspired us in their approach to worship and encouraged our commitment to meet the needs of our neighbours, no matter how challenging. Thank you for your support financially and prayerfully over these last two years. “Let us not become weary in doing good…” (Galatians 6:9)”
Igor Bandura, vice president of the Ukrainian Baptist Union reflects on two years of war and ministry in his country.
“Ukraine marks the second anniversary of its fierce confrontation with the forces of evil. In 2022, it seemed to Ukrainians that they would not be able to hold out for more than a few weeks, neither emotionally, physically, nor defensively. But the Lord is holding Ukrainians. Every day He shows His miracles again and again at the front and in the rear.
From the first day of the full-scale invasion until now, the population of Ukraine has been at risk of a humanitarian catastrophe. Therefore, social services are in great demand by the public. Responding to it is the best manifestation of Christian sacrifice in times of war. It is a set of actions that cannot be measured in tons or kilometers.
If in the first year of the war, the humanitarian ministry of the Baptists of Ukraine was more urgent and situational, this year it has gained stability, structure and orderliness.
The churches in Ukraine are sure that the country will survive and win, "for He who is in us is greater than he who is in the world," and because millions of brothers and sisters from around the world are with Ukrainians.”
SHARED LEARNING FROM THE COMMISSION ON MIGRATION’S FACILITATED CONVERSATIONS
The EBF Commission on Migration hosted three Facilitated Conversations throughout Autumn 2023 around pressing issues related to Migration and Refugee Issues. Over the course of the sessions around 20 people from across the EBF region discussed: Navigating Cross-cultural Conflicts, Sustaining Long-term Refugee Ministry, and Ministering Through Compounding Crises. You can read some of the insights of our shared learning below.
CROSS-CULTURAL MISSION LEARNING NETWORK WITH IBTS
IBTS, in collaboration with the EBF Commission on Migration, will launch a six-week Learning Network course on Cross-Cultural Mission beginning March 8. The course is designed specifically for Ukrainian ministry leaders working outside of Ukraine, but we have limited places available for others interested in the course. The course will be delivered in English and Ukrainian.
Contact Will Cumbia with any questions (will@ebf.org).
Course information here
INTRODUCING KADI
From the beginning of February, we have been able to add Kadi Tingas to our staff team as our Digital Network Developer. You can read a little more about her here.
WE SEE HIS LOVE EVERY DAY: STORIES FROM MOLDOVA
Since the first day of the war in Ukraine, the Baptist churches in Moldova have welcomed and supported the refugees from Ukraine. With the financial support of the global Baptist family, they have provided food and shelter to thousands of people during the time of war. And even now, two years later, Moldovan churches and refugee centres continue to receive new people who, despite their attempts to remain in Ukraine for as long as possible, are now seeking refuge in Moldova. You can find some of their stories on our website.
GOSPEL FACES NEW OBSTACLES: STORIES FROM BELARUS
The mission work in Belarus constantly faces new obstacles but the indigenous church planters manage to continue their mission.
SPREADING HOPE AND LOVE AMID THE DARKNESS: STORIES FROM THE HOLY LAND
Baptist organizations in Palestine and Israel are continuing to support people amid the ‘heart-wrenching reality’ of the war in Gaza.
'Could you imagine yourself without electricity, limited water, limited food, limited medicine, no safe place, and feeling constantly unsafe and unable to provide or protect your family? This is the grim reality for many in Gaza right now. Resources are scarce, prices are soaring, and providing for families has become a daunting challenge. The situation is dire, with some resorting to using animal fodder to make bread, and even that is running out in some places.'
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