War Relief Updates - August 23, 2024

Thank you for your concern and for praying for Ukraine and the Ukrainian People

1. Those carrying on our war-relief efforts along the war front report sadly that many of the soldiers they are able to help and share the Gospel with do not return from their battle assignments. Some units return with only half of their numbers surviving. While this reality does motivate our workers to intensify their efforts in sharing the Gospel with these men, the loss of life does make their hearts heavy. Please pray, not only for our workers’ safety but also for their spirits to remain strong in this challenging ministry.

2. Last week we mentioned that Sam & Amy Slobodian were requesting prayer for their travel to Ukraine, specifically that their border crossing would go quickly and smoothly. They report that God mightily answered these prayers. When they arrived at the border, no cars waited in front of them. In addition—praise God!—Customs did not inspect any suitcases, which they often do (a time-consuming process). Thank you for praying!

3. Husband & wife team Vitaly and Natasha have founded an outreach in Ukraine called "The Cross." Operating near the front lines of the war, The Cross aims to engage soldiers heading back to the front, first by nourishing their bodies with a tasty meal, but also by sharing faith in Christ to save their souls. They are planting seeds of the Gospel among men who will literally be facing death. The following video link provides glimpses of that ministry in action as Natasha tells more about it:

https://vimeo.com/user37287229/soup-scripture


4. Sam and Amy Slobodian (who are in Ukraine right now) report that everywhere they go people enthusiastically express great gratitude for the Warm Clothing for Soldiers project BIEM did last winter. People are excited by the opportunity to tell them in person what a great blessing that program was. Incidentally, our office has received numerous questions asking whether we plan to do something similar this upcoming winter. The answer is yes. We will provide further information later.

In Christ,

Sam Slobodian
President, BIEM