• Marking three years of war

10 hours ago2 min read

“I have a dream, that children in Ukraine and my city of Kharkiv and around the whole world would not startle and fear when they hear a loud noise and think it’s a projectile or bomb,” said Tamara, from Kharkiv Corps, Ukraine.

“I dream that children could look into the sky and see animal shapes from the formation of the clouds and not think about what objects might be flying up there – helicopters or planes or projectiles. I dream that people in my country, my city and around the whole world could live in a peaceful world. There is much more I could say, but this is the most important.”

As Ukrainians around the world mark the grim milestone of three years since Russia’s full-scale invasion of their country on 24 February 2022, they continue to dream of and pray for peace. The Eastern Europe Territory, of which Ukraine is a division, asks The Salvation Army world to join them in praying for peace.

Beams of Remembrance lit up military burial grounds in Lviv, Ukraine, last night (local time). This has become a tradition on the eve of the anniversary of Russia’s full-scale invasion. Photo courtesy Kyiv Post. — Beams of Remembrance lit up military burial grounds in Lviv, Ukraine, last night (local time). This has become a tradition on the eve of the anniversary of Russia’s full-scale invasion. Photo courtesy *Kyiv Post*.

“I ask the Lord to protect my husband every day,” said one Salvationist. “I ask him to protect my family from drones and pieces of rockets wherever we are. And I ask for peace in our country ... not for a win … but for peace.”

Another Salvationist spoke about the work they do assisting so many grieving and traumatised people to help them feel loved, that their lives matter, and help supply their basic needs.

“The biggest challenge is war,” she said. “Alarms, drones, explosions, hiding children, sitting in basements – these things disturb our life. We see fear, sorrow, pain and we want to share love, mercy and joy to others.” She emphasised the need for peace.

Another Salvationist spoke about the joy of being able to be God’s light to others in very dark times. She added, “But please, don’t forget about Ukraine and those of us who stay here and serve to bring God’s love to others.”