Christmas is coming to Ukraine

Salvationists and friends in Ukraine are praising God for his coming this Christmas, as they continue to worship and help others as war rages around them.

BY SIMONE WORTHING 

Despite the brutal war going on around them and constantly living, and serving, in a state of hyper-vigilance, The Salvation Army in Ukraine is working hard to help meet the physical, emotional and spiritual needs of its people and communities, particularly as Christmas approaches.

Even a blackout caused by bombing doesn't stop the worship service.

Throughout the Advent season, corps have been lighting the Advent candles of hope, peace and joy, as well praising God for his presence and for all that Christmas means, both now and eternally.

Divisional event

The Mayak (lighthouse) Corps in Ukraine recently hosted a divisional event after a particularly “terrible all-night attack on civil infrastructure in Ukraine, that aimed to leave the country without heating and electricity,” divisional leaders shared.

“However, the corps was filled with the warmth and light that were projected by all the participants, as part of the meeting was conducted during an emergency blackout in the local area.”

Territorial Leaders, Colonels Ann and Richard Borrett (on screen) speak directly with Ukrainian Salvos.

Modern technology allowed Eastern Europe Territory Leaders, Colonels Ann and Richard Borrett, to spend “live” time with those gathered for the event.

“It was good to have some two-way conversation,” said Colonel Ann. “I felt quite emotional seeing them and just privately acknowledged that these people we were talking to face uncertainty and some fear every day!  I thanked them for their faithful service in very difficult circumstances and assured them of our continued prayers for protection.”

Faithful worshippers.

Colonel Richard shared a few words from Scripture about inner peace and how different it is to the peace the world offers.

Shining the light

In the Colonels’ upcoming recorded Christmas message to Ukraine and the other divisions of The Eastern Europe Territory – Bulgaria, Georgia, Moldova and Romania – Colonel Richard speaks from John 8:12, focusing on Jesus as the light of the world.

“This is what we celebrate at Christmas – the coming into the world of the light of the world – Jesus,” Colonel Richard shares.

“So, our prayer is that the light of Jesus will shine upon you this Christmas, that you will know his presence in your lives and that you will radiate and reflect that light so that as people look at you, they will see the light of Jesus shining in your hearts too ... Let us receive that light. Let us reflect that light. Let us make the world a better place.”

Staff and volunteers prepare gifts to help give children a special gift this Christmas.

Serving others

Around the Ukraine Division, Salvationists and volunteers are raising funds through the ‘Red Kettle’ program, often standing in sub-zero temperatures for hours, to provide gifts for vulnerable children, food, clothing, warm bedding and special Christmas programs.

Help is given to those who need it, despite the challenges brought by war.

The Salvation Army in Ukraine is also growing, despite the war. New soldiers are being enrolled, young people are coming to youth events and corps meetings, Bible studies are well attended, and local communities are drawn to the hope and help offered to all – from worship groups, psychological assistance, art therapy and craft, to material aid, vouchers, music, emotional and spiritual support and a warm and accepting atmosphere.

The exhaustion though, is real. Please continue to pray for peace for Ukraine and for hope, strength, encouragement and peace for all.

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