As we write this letter our hearts along with everyone else are deeply concerned over the developments we are watching on the news as Russia has launched an invasion of Ukraine. We are especially concerned for our missionaries whose lives are in danger as Russian forces advance. Currently, we have many Ukrainian families supported by BIEM and numerous Ukrainian partners American in Ukraine as well as one American (Bruce Tuttle) that need your prayers.
““God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.” ”
Currently most of our Ukrainians are staying where they are though some may try to get to Western Ukraine. This is also the case with Bruce Tuttle though he may try to get to the Republic of Georgia if possible. One of our friends who is a businessman is trying to get out of Kyiv and get to Western Ukraine, but he has been stuck in traffic for over 12 hours now and is making little progress.
We are grateful for the phone calls and e-mails we have been receiving expressing concern for these dear people. There is a question all are asking which is “other than prayer is there anything we can do?” First of all, we cannot underestimate the importance and power of prayer. Please pray:
1. That the war somehow be halted.
2. Pray for the safety of our missionary families and ministry partners.
3. Pray for the peace of God to rule the hearts and minds of believers in Ukraine.
4. Pray as well that believers will perceive and act on opportunities to share Christ with fearful unsaved ones around.
Beyond prayer there is going to be a huge need for funds. Before the invasion prices for food, fuel and other necessities more than doubled. Now that the invasion is taking place this will only get worse. Currently Ukrainians are able to withdraw funds from banks, so we are transferring relief funds to our Ukrainian missionaries most of whom do have bank accounts. You certainly can help with this effort by sending donations to BIEM designated for “Ukraine Relief.” Your donations will help these families in this crisis which will certainly continue for some time.
If you have not yet accessed it, please view this month’s video update. This video features Eugene and Vitaly requesting prayer for Ukraine. Following is a song which is a prayer for Ukraine. The song is sung by Eugene's daughters Solomia, Angelica and Ivanka (from left to right). During the song you will see pictures of our Ukrainian families that need your prayers.
Finally, we share this from our missionaries the Keller’s who are in Ukraine. “We thank God for the Ukrainian armed forces, who protect us every day from further Russian invasion. We thank God for the Ukrainian, American, and European leaders who are actively seeking diplomatic solutions for the Russian aggression…. We thank God for you and your prayers. It is God who still holds Russia and gives relative peace to Ukraine. Please keep on praying.” Thank-you very much for your prayers and for your support! May God bless you and bless Ukraine.