Christ in the Crisis

What is happening in Ukraine, and what is the effect on gospel ministry?  A reliable mission partner who has worked in Ukraine for 30 years has shared his perspective to help us to understand the situation a little better, and to pray for those affected.

Although there is much international concern at the build-up of Russian forces on the border and in Belarus, many Ukrainians seem to be going about their business as usual.  However we understand that they have been advised to have an 'alarm case' packed in case they need to leave home quickly.

They have been living against a background of intermittent conflict with Russia since 2014.  Around 30% of Ukrainians are Russian speakers and it seems that some of them might welcome Russian patronage.  Others resent the 2014 annexation of the Crimea peninsula and infiltration into eastern Ukraine.

But the evangelical church in Ukraine has been growing with many new believers and newly equipped leaders.  This situation is a new test of their faith.

The potential ramifications of an overt Russian invasion, or covert infiltration of the Ukrainian power structures, for Christian believers and others would be huge.  Reported experience of Evangelical Churches in Crimea is that the alignment of the state and orthodox church has impacted on the believers, with some accounts of interference and persecution.

Ukraine relies to a large extent on nuclear power.  It has the largest nuclear power plant in Europe, which is located in Zaporizhzhia on the Dnieper River in the south of the country, north of Crimea.  Also, the river's water supply from Ukraine to Crimea was reduced after annexation.  Control of this area could be significant advantage.

How can BeaconLight help? We have no partners 'on the ground' in Ukraine, only have one book in Russian (Word@Work for the Letter of James), and nothing in Ukrainian.

But we can encourage you to pray with us!

Please pray for Ukrainian believers that they will stay close to Christ and share the gospel with those who have no personal hope.

Pray for the leaders in Ukraine, Russia and the West along the lines of 1 Timothy 2:1-2: "I urge, then, first of all, that petitions, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for all people – for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness."

Pray for the small number of mission agencies who are seeking to encourage Ukrainian believers to present Christ to a nominally religious population.

Pray also that the Lord will stir us in BeaconLight if He wants us to provide online gospel information in Ukrainian or Russian.

The Lord knows what He is allowing and doing for His glory and the blessing of all who trust in Him.  It is for us to watch and pray, and work with Him so that His Will is done.

© Dr Paul Adams