The latest report from the European Baptist Federation (EBF) notes that needs continue to mount, and the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights reported that more than 6.2 million people have fled Ukraine, most of those being women, children, and the elderly.
The tragedies caused by Russia’s invasion have been met head-on by Baptists throughout the region. In Romania, which borders Ukraine, Mănăștur Baptist Church has assisted hundreds of refugees with food, medical supplies, housing, transportation, jobs, and emotional support. A Ukrainian passing through there on the way to Italy said the congregation’s support was life-altering: “I never experienced so much love in all my life. We want to be part of such a church, so please help us find one like yours in Italy.”
A group of churches in neighboring Slovakia have started a ministry that sends truckloads of humanitarian aid into Ukraine, and back in Slovakia it helps with doctors’ visits, finding jobs, getting food, and school placement for refugees. The Slovak Baptist Union has also obtained 5,000 Ukrainian children’s Bibles to distribute.
Baptists within Ukraine also have developed and grown comprehensive wartime ministries to aid those trapped in the invasion, often while maintaining the services they provided before—like support for the blind and drug addiction recovery. Irpin Bible Church is housing a team of up to 70 volunteers. They spend each day repairing damaged homes, delivering hot food to the armed forces, and welcoming people into the church to wash clothes, charge phones, and collect basic necessities. Pastors and deacons are on hand to provide pastoral care.
Let us be inspired by all of the incredible work that is going on. Inspired to pray, help, and support.