BIEMs of Light: April 2026

Praises – Rejoice with us!

• Today another war-relief shipment of donated goods left the BIEM warehouse for Ukraine. Much of the contents is quality used clothing for refugees and other needy ones. It also contains a variety of medical and mobility items, along with household items and even toys for children. Praise God!

• Our Director for Ukraine Eugene Buyko and his family have been with us for all of March. While here they represented the mission of BIEM in a variety of churches across multiple states. Plus, the whole family spent many hours helping us to sort and pack donated items for the war-relief container mentioned above! This morning they began the long journey back to Ukraine.

• During Ukraine’s severe energy crisis this past winter, the generous gifts from friends of BIEM enabled us to bless scores of churches there with gifts of $1,000 apiece to aid in heating their church buildings. We praise the Lord that the number of churches aided this way has now surpassed 100. We will share more details about this in the next issue of our quarterly Challenger newsletter.

• Concerning war relief for Ukraine, we have a special blessing to share. We received a donation of entire pallets loaded with boxes of adult-sized, disposable diapers—nearly 6,000 diapers! These are particularly valuable for the elderly and for severely injured victims of the war. We praise and thank God for the generosity of this donor.

Prayer – Pray with us!

• Because of a mechanical breakdown on the press that normally prints our Challenger newsletters, the spring issue is delayed. It should get mailed out the week of April 6. This has delayed our news that we urgently need funds to sponsor summer camps. Out of the $65,000 needed, we currently have $5,400 on hand. Please help us pray for $59,600 for summer camps.

• Our director for Central Asia requests prayer concerning a well-drilling rig he is ordering for Central Asia. The goal is to drill wells for villages that aren’t located close to water sources. May this effort open opportunities to water villages with the Gospel, too! 

• Our evangelist contact in Iran, Matthew, reports much persecution of Christians in recent days. Police have been arresting, beating, and sometimes killing known Christians. Please uphold them in prayer!

• In the Republic of Georgia, the legal landscape continues to shift rapidly. In the past few months, at least 3 new laws effectively move Georgia into a “restricted” or “creative” access land for evangelistic ministry. Please pray for our several ministry families as they strive to comply.

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War Relief Updates - March 27, 2026

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

1. As the church in Lviv, Ukraine, steadily reaches out to refugees with war relief and the Gospel, the church has experienced growth. It’s quite timely that last year we began a construction project to transform their building’s spacious second floor (which had been unfinished) into a large auditorium. In these next few days, the workmen are entering a phase of their auditorium construction that requires 4 laborers to work at very high heights. Because of the dangers involved, Pastor Yura has requested special prayer for their safety.

2. Yesterday, on March 26, BIEM accepted delivery of an empty 40-ft. container. On Saturday morning, a crew of volunteers will help us to load most of the war-relief goods stored in our warehouse into that container for shipment as aid to churches in Ukraine. Please pray for the safety of our volunteers as there are plenty of possibilities for accidents.

3. In this week’s video, BIEM church planter Sasha Petrenko introduces us to a brother from his church who is also named Sasha. Other church members refer to this brother—who currently serves in communications in the Ukrainian military—as “Sasha the evangelist.” Please watch and learn why our church planter says, “Sasha hardly ever calls and asks for something, but when he asks for something, we know that it is very, very important.” You will also learn how financial gifts from believers just like you enabled BIEM to bless not only Sasha himself but also the untold numbers of men in uniform who depend on him for their very lives. Here’s the link:

https://vimeo.com/user37287229/sasha

4. On Tuesday, May 24, Russia launched its most massive attack on the western Ukraine city of Lviv and other areas. According to news reports from multiple channels, within a 24-hour period, Russia launched nearly 1,000 drones and 34 missiles at Ukraine. Dozens of deaths and injuries resulted, not to mention physical destruction to properties. What was particularly unusual was that the attack occurred in broad daylight, which is a departure from the norm. Our church planters Yura and Violetta Levtseniuk live in Lviv with their children. They tell us that in recent weeks they had gotten accustomed to a lot of sirens but no bombs. Suddenly—this happened. Please pray for Yura, Violetta, and the church as they have opportunities to share the Gospel while helping those in need.

Sam Slobodian
President, BIEM

War Relief Updates - March 20, 2026

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

1. Past experience has demonstrated that bringing Ukrainian church planters to the U.S. to speak in churches is definitely an effective method of raising awareness of the needs in Ukraine. It is also effective for raising funds for war relief. Because our foreign nationals are never guaranteed entry visas from the U.S. Department of State, we especially rejoice that two of our missionaries—Vitaly Yurchenko and Pasha Levtseniuks—have been granted renewed visas.

2. During Ukraine’s severe energy crisis this past winter, the generous gifts from friends of BIEM enabled us to bless scores of churches there with gifts of $1,000 apiece to aid in heating their church buildings. We praise the Lord that the number of churches aided this way has now surpassed 100. We will share more details about this in the next issue of our quarterly Challenger newsletter.

3. Recently, using finances from BIEM, the church in Lviv, Ukraine, once again prepared portable meals in hermetically sealed packets. This time some of the believers personally delivered them to the 37th Brigade. These compact food packets can be delivered to soldiers even on the frontlines of battle by drones. In this brief video, an excited representative of the 37th Brigade praises the quality of the food packets and thank BIEM for financing them. Here’s the link:

https://vimeo.com/user37287229/37thb

4. Among the many scores of thank-you letters from Ukrainian churches arriving at BIEM is this one. It comes from the Brotherhood of Independent Christian-Baptist Churches and Missions of Ukraine:

“Unfortunately, the shelling of Kyiv continues. Almost every night and every day, we not only hear sirens, but we even see our military shooting down deadly drones and missiles. Energy facilities, homes, heating plants, and businesses are being destroyed. Adults and children are dying… and all of this is happening right before our eyes. We hate war and pray to God for protection and peace. War is the quintessence and manifestation of all the evil that can possibly exist… Thank God that He is especially with us in these times, that He does not abandon us—and through you He demonstrates that He does not abandon us! Because of your love and support! Thank you once again!”

Sam Slobodian
President, BIEM

War Relief Updates - March 13, 2026

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

1. We at BIEM are praising the Lord for a group of ladies from a church in one of our neighboring towns in Indiana. When unsorted and unpacked clothing donations were mounting in our warehouse, these ladies came this past Wednesday and served alongside the Buyko family. Together, they categorized and boxed donations for our upcoming shipment of aid to churches in Ukraine. Thank you again, ladies!

2. Concerning war relief for Ukraine, we have a second blessing to share. We received as a donation entire pallets loaded with adult-sized, disposable diapers—nearly 6,000 of them! These are particularly valuable for the elderly and for severely injured victims of the war. We praise and thank God for the generosity of this donor.

3. Alex Abramtsov lives in Zhitomir, Ukraine, along with his wife and children. Despite being legally blind, he pastors the church in nearby Korotysheva. In this week’s brief video update, he expresses great thanks for the heating aid BIEM provided for this congregation during the brutal winter when Russia destroyed so much of the Ukrainian power grid. You can see the video here:

https://vimeo.com/user37287229/timely

4. Violetta Levtseniuk, wife of BIEM missionary Yura Levtseniuk, leaves Monday with a team of 5 transporting homecooked, stewed and canned meat they have prepared (called Tushonka) to a division of soldiers who have connections with the church. Because the group is traveling to a dangerous area of Dnipropetrovsk, they are requesting prayer for safety and open hearts among the soldiers who will be hearing the Gospel from them.

Sam Slobodian
President, BIEM

War Relief Updates - March 6, 2026

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

1. In a previous update we mentioned that Sergiy Koop had traveled to Latvia to pick up the car Vitaly Bilyak purchased. Along the way, Sergiy spent the night at a Ukrainian church, which is now interested in helping his ministry. The church got an idea of how to help when he showed them pictures of how he packs his little Toyota Yaris for war relief trips to the front as well as for other ministry needs. The church responded by obtaining a fairly recent model minivan worth around $20,000! But there is a condition—Sergiy needs to come up with the $10,000 required to pay customs duties when bringing it into Ukraine. Please pray that funds for this will come in as we share this need.

2. Last week, we explained how our Director for Ukraine, Eugene Buyko, was scheduled to come to the U.S. with his family. Here, they were scheduled to speak and sing in American churches, plus help extensively in the final stages of helping us prepare our next load of humanitarian aid for shipment. But we requested prayer, because in wartime Ukraine, crossing the border is not always an easy feat. Praise the Lord, He has answered our prayer for smooth travels. Not only did the Buykos cross the border, but they did so in the amazingly quick time of 45 minutes! As of today, they are in the BIEM office.

3. Because of the extensive amount of aid for heating that BIEM was able to provide, we have received Thank-You notes from over 90 different churches in Ukraine. In Kyiv, the large Temple of Salvation Baptist Church sent us not only a letter but also a video of thanks from Pastor Sergei Volosenko. In the video, which we have titled “A Warm Welcome, Thanks to You,” will let him explain how the aid you provided through BIEM has protected their church building and kept people warm during the brutally cold winter while Russia was blowing up Ukraine's power grid...

https://vimeo.com/user37287229/welcome

4. We are grateful for all of you who read these weekly updates and rejoice with us over God’s blessings and pray about the needs that we share. We would like to take this opportunity to let you know that these weekly updates are one of several publications we make available. You can subscribe to any of these by contacting us and requesting them. Here is a list:

- War Relief Updates (You’re reading one now. These include specific developments in our War Relief program, plus a link to a weekly Video Update)

- BIEMs of Light (A monthly list of Praises & Prayer Requests)

- Monthly Video Updates (Brief monthly videos of a general ministry nature)

Sam Slobodian
President, BIEM

BIEMs of Light: March 2026

Praises – Rejoice with us!

• Vitaly Bilyak had hoped to buy a replacement car from outside of Ukraine. His status as a member of Ukraine’s armed forces exempts him from paying import duty (up to 100% of the car’s price), which is a huge savings. Thanks to the Lord and BIEM supporters, that wish is now fulfilled! Sergiy Koop managed to pick up the vehicle in Latvia and deliver it to Vitaly. Thank you for prayers!

• Praise God for sending warmer temperatures to Ukraine. Snows are melting, which is a tremendous relief after the bitterly cold temperatures of January and February.

• Of course, huge portions of the Ukrainian electrical grid remain in ruins. Rolling power outages will be the norm for some time. Meanwhile, 97 churches have sent BIEM thank you’s for the aid we provided to heat their church buildings. We, in turn, thank you for donations to our War Relief.

• When Sergiy Koop traveled to Latvia to pick up the car for Vitaly Bilyak, he spent the night at a Ukrainian church. He showed them photos of his little Toyota Yaris packed with war relief, etc. The church responded by purchasing a fairly recent model minivan worth around $20,000! Sergiy still needs to raise $10,000 to pay customs duties, but praise God for this unexpected provision!

Prayer – Pray with us!

• BIEM’s Director for Central Asia has received word from an evangelist named Matthew inside Iran. Although Matthew is saddened by the number of Christians killed by the Iranian regime, he rejoices because he has more freedom now to witness openly than ever before. He requests prayer for himself and other Iranian believers, that God would use them to reach more Iranians for Christ!

• As she continues deputation, missionary candidate Dana Keller says, “God is already doing wonderful things—and I truly believe this is only the beginning. At this point, I still need to raise the remaining 35% of my monthly support in order to move to Ukraine and serve there full-time.” Will you say a prayer for Dana’s remaining support to be pledged?

• About 10 days ago, a graduate of our Bible Institute in Central Asia spent hours witnessing to a high-ranking man in the Taliban. He left him with a call to repent and the film King of Glory to watch. Please pray that God grips his heart and that he comes to faith in Jesus.

• Today, our Director for Ukraine Eugene Buyko and his family were permitted to exit Ukraine on a trip to BIEM in the U.S. Here, the family will speak & sing in churches, plus help extensively to prepare our next shipment of war relief for Ukraine. We praise Lord for a smooth border crossing!

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March 2026 Video Update

Dear Pastors and Friends,

As winter draws toward a close, our video for the month of March gives us one more peek into a Ukrainian winter camp. In this video, the church in Zdolbuniv brings their teen group to the campground in Derman. There, the youth had fun playing games in the snow, practicing sportsmanship, and enjoying warm meals. But more importantly, youth leaders united their hearts around the Word of God and led them in worship. All this, without the sound of missiles, drones, and explosions that plague more populous areas. As you watch, just imagine what a wonderful change of pace this camp was for teens living in a nation under constant attack. Here’s the link:

https://vimeo.com/user37287229/wintercamp2

Blessings to you!

Sam & Amy Slobodian

War Relief Updates - February 27, 2026

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

1. This past month, we in the home office of BIEM were blessed to have our missionaries Vitaly & Olena Yurchenko visiting and living in our guest quarters. The churches where they spoke paid specially close attention and gave a wonderful response. Because the Yurchenkos’ home is in the suburbs of Kyiv, which has regularly been bombarded by Russian missiles and drones, they often mentioned how strange it seemed to sleep through the night without sirens or explosions waking them. (Pause and think... Have you ever thanked the Lord that you got to sleep through a night without bombs exploding nearby?) This couple departed yesterday on the first leg of their journey home. May God bless and protect them!

2. Following the departure of the Yurchenkos in #1 above, our Director for Ukraine Eugene Buyko and his family are the next guests on BIEM’s schedule to visit American churches and bring updates in person. However, due to wartime restrictions, for a Ukrainian man to exit the country—even temporarily and with official permission—is not necessarily a simple feat. On top of traveling in wintertime conditions, there remains an element of uncertainty and stress. Regardless of official permission to exit, the border guards make the final determination of allowing or not allowing a man to cross out of Ukraine. Once before, Eugene got as far as the border and was denied. He had to return home. Please pray for this family, that the Lord will bless and protect during each stage of their journey as they leave home at 5 a.m. their time on March 3 (which in the U.S. is 10 p.m. on Monday, March 2, Eastern Time).

3. It’s easy to designate a certain time and location for roadside evangelism. It’s more complicated to organize the food preparation, to order tracts and Scriptures, to travel to the chosen spot and set up tents, tables, and chairs, and then to spend long hours standing in the cold and connecting with those who stop in order to talk, share the Gospel, and pray with them. This week’s video gives you a peek into the truth that such ministry requires many people’s contributions - including yours!

https://vimeo.com/user37287229/many-hands

4. In April 2024 we shared a video that we titled “1 + 1 = 70.” In it, our missionary Pavlo Usach shared how God used two senior sisters in a war-battered area near Pokrovsk, Ukraine, to open the doors of their home for church services during the war in Ukraine. They began with just themselves, but in time God multiplied the number of people coming for worship to 70! (The link is https://vimeo.com/user37287229/oneplusone.) Today Pavlo has shared that the sister named Anna (who appears on the left in the video) is experiencing severe health challenges and has become bedridden. He requests that the BIEM family pray for this worthy sister in Christ.

Sam Slobodian
President, BIEM

War Relief Updates - February 20, 2026

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

1. A team of 12 just returned from a war-relief distribution trip at the war front. BIEM has financed this veteran group several times in the past. We have also posted videos of those past outreaches, which show how they set up an evangelistic station at a crossroads through which thousands of soldiers pass. Soldiers who stop are treated to food, supplies, and Gospel literature. The team’s goal is to share the Gospel and pray with every soldier who stops. On this trip they distributed nearly 70 gallons of Bograch (a traditional hearty soup), homemade treats, groceries, and needed supplies like medicine and anti-drone netting. They also distributed New Testaments and Gospel tracts and cards containing QR codes with which soldiers can access online services from our Ukrainian churches.

This time they set up at a crossroads in Oleksandrivka, which is in the Donetsk area of the Donbas region in eastern Ukraine. This location is southwest of Slovyansk, where they have set up before. Slovyansk is now off limits due to heavy shelling and drone attacks. Soon we will post a video about this week’s outreach.

2. Funds continue to be needed for our War Relief efforts. This week, BIEM supplied 37 more Ukrainian churches with $1,000 apiece to help with heating expenses, which have soared in price due to the destruction of much of Ukraine’s power grid. This destruction forces Ukrainians to turn to alternate heat sources like generators, power stations, and wood.

3. For the past several weeks, our War Relief Updates have mentioned Vitaly Bilyak’s hope to buy a replacement vehicle from outside of Ukraine. His status as a drafted member of Ukraine’s armed forces exempts him from paying import duty on such a purchase (up to100% of the car’s price), which is a huge savings. Thanks to the Lord and the generosity of BIEM supporters, that desire of his heart is now fulfilled! His church-planting son-in-law Sergiy Koop managed to pick up the car in Latvia and deliver it to Vitaly. Since you prayed concerning this vehicle, we invite you to let Vitaly show you the fruits of your prayers through the following video!

https://vimeo.com/user37287229/vehicle

4. Most often, BIEM creates its own videos for our weekly updates. But occasionally our partner churches overseas surprise us with a video of their own making. Such is the case with the video at the following link. Here, deacon Volodymyr Levytsky expresses the appreciation of Road of Life Baptist Church in Boyarka for BIEM’s war-relief projects, and thus for all of you who give to make those ministries possible...

https://vimeo.com/user37287229/boyarka

Sam Slobodian
President, BIEM

War Relief Updates - February 13, 2026

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

1. As we are in regular contact with our missionaries and workers in Ukraine, Russia’s destruction of Ukraine’s power grid is alarming. Ukrainians are now going long periods of time without electricity. Over this last week, many of our people have had power for only 2 hours a day. The extremely harsh winter has made matters worse. Thankfully, we have been able to supply over $300,000 worth of generators, power stations, and woodburning stoves, which have enabled our people and partnering churches to battle the extreme cold. Without these alternate sources of power, their furnaces would not survive on just two hours of electricity in a 24-hour period. Please pray for warmer weather in Ukraine and especially for the war to end.

2. Yesterday we were able to Facetime with Vitaly Bilyak, and we were able to see his living conditions. He lives in a forest in a military tent along with 35 other men. Thanks to a wood-burning stove, they have a little heat. However, as temperatures plunge, it is not uncommon for the thermometer inside the tent to stay in the upper 30’s in Fahrenheit. Nevertheless, Vitaly shared two blessings he has come to appreciate. One is that he has an excellent sleeping bag, which keeps him warm as long as he stays in it. Second, he rejoices that mosquitoes are now no longer a problem! He deeply appreciates the prayers that many of you continue to offer up on his behalf. He says that one answer to prayer is that the team we have working on his case have enlisted the help of yet another lawyer who has been successful in reversing the conscription of several pastors. There is now the hope that this could be accomplished in 2 to 3 months. However, this is an expensive process, which will cost close to $10,000. Therefore, donations to this effort would be greatly appreciated.

3. Through BIEM's War Relief fund, we have been enabling our church plant in Lviv, Ukraine, to provide food for troops on the front lines. Then some soldiers made a special request: Could the ladies of the church prepare "holubtsi" for a special mission? (Holubtsi are soft cabbage leaves wrapped around a filling of ground meat, rice, and tomato sauce. The name translates to "little pigeons.") In special small, plastic packets designed for delivery by drone, food could safely reach soldiers even in forward areas. Here's how the church responded...

https://vimeo.com/user37287229/pigeons

4. In last week’s War Relief Updates, we mentioned Sergiy Koop’s pending trip to Latvia, where he was to pick up a used car for Vitaly Bilyak and drive it back to Ukraine in harsh, wintertime conditions. Praise God, Sergiy was able to complete this 4-day mission successfully.

Sergiy extends a huge thanks to all who prayed for this journey. When he wrote down his travel plans step-by-step, he realized this was an ambitious itinerary. His route covered over 2,000 miles in 5 countries: Ukraine, Poland, Lithuania, Czech Republic, and Latvia. Many points along the way held potential pitfalls that could derail the whole trip. However, as I spoke with him this morning, he mentioned several blessings that are direct answers to prayer...

a. There were no delays as each train and plane he traveled on departed on time, allowing smooth connections.

b. He managed to locate believers and churches in Poland, the Czech Republic, and Lativa. These provided food and lodging, so nothing had to be spent on hotel rooms.

c. Also, the fellowship and prayer he enjoyed with these believers were a great encouragement.

d. As Sergiy shared about his ministry and the situation in Ukraine, the brethren in these churches in Poland, Czech Republic, and Lativa expressed an interest in supporting his ministry in Ukraine.

e. The border crossings were near miraculous. Crossing borders with a car involves longer waits, since customs requires considerable documentation. Nevertheless, he passed through each border in less than an hour and successfully avoided the customs duty, which made the effort more than worthwhile. This is truly amazing.

f. This trip was during what is normally the worst part of winter; however, each day the weather was ideal for travel.

g. The 20-year-old Volvo turned out to be in excellent condition. It ran perfectly, and there were no mechanical issues at all.

Sam Slobodian
President, BIEM

War Relief Updates - February 6, 2026

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

1. Ruslan, a member of our new church plant in Ternopil, has been stationed on the war front for his military service. He has been serving in the military since the beginning of the war. He is one of the soldiers occasionally visited by our teams who have been providing war relief for civilians and soldiers in these war-torn areas. On a recent trip, our ministers noticed that the tires on Ruslan’s car were worn bald. Last week BIEM was able to purchase a new set of tires. Here is his translated reply: “Thank you very much for providing the new tires I so badly needed. I’m speechless. I can now travel much more safely. I thank God for your warm and generous hearts. May God bless you all!”

2. The war has had a sad effect on children and youth in Ukraine. Many cannot even remember a time when they could live normally without constant bombing and drone attacks, which continue to descend upon all of Ukraine. Essentially, they have been robbed of their childhood having to experience the reality of war at a young age. This weekend BIEM is sponsoring a special conference in Kyiv for children and youth to encourage them by turning their thoughts to the wonderful hope that is found in the Lord Jesus Christ. About 20 churches are planning to bring children and youth. Between 120 to 140 are expected to attend. Please pray that this conference will result in many troubled youths giving their lives to Christ.

3. As Russian missiles and drones wreak havoc on Ukraine’s electrical grid, homes and churches have been plunged into frozen darkness. In reply to urgent requests from partner churches, we have sent $1,000 dollars each to 60 churches to provide firewood or fuel for generators. The churches, in turn, become warm havens for desperate people in need. Here’s a video “Thank You” from one such church. Thank you for helping us to help them!

https://vimeo.com/user37287229/heat

4. Last month we mentioned that Vitaly Bilyak, our pastor who has been conscripted into the Ukrainian army, had an opportunity to purchase a used vehicle duty-free from Europe. Such a vehicle is needed so he can turn over his current vehicle to another BIEM church planter in need. Purchasing duty-free is a great savings of at least 50%. However, a bit later we requested prayer because Vitaly was having difficulty in locating a suitable vehicle. But now, praise God for answered prayer! A 2006 Volvo SUV that would meet this need has been located in Latvia. After this Sunday’s services, brother Sergiy Koop will leave for Latvia to obtain this vehicle. Traveling there involves two train rides, an airplane flight, and finally public transportation. Driving the Volvo back to Vitaly will take another 2 days. Please pray for Sergiy. Winter roads can be treacherous in Ukraine, especially now, when the country is in the grip of an extremely severe winter. Sergiy will then be the recipient of Vitaly’s current vehicle, which Sergiy will drive home after delivering the Volvo. Thank you very much to all who prayed and gave for this need.

Sam Slobodian
President, BIEM

February 2026 Video Update

Dear Pastors and Friends,

Last summer, the church in Bilogorodka, Ukraine, took their youth group on its first-ever tent camping trip. The location for this camp was Derman, where the church in Zdolbuniv has been developing a campground for various retreats and outings. During that time, several young people were saved!

Fast forward to this winter... After Christmas, the church in Bilogorodka took their young people back to the same location in Derman for the campground’s first-ever winter camp. Obviously, the biting cold of winter made tent camping in January unrealistic for these young ones. But thanks to BIEM supporters who provided the financing, workman from the Zdolbuniv church were able to winterize the buildings. The children and teens still needed to crowd together in the limited number of sleeping rooms available in the campground’s buildings, but that became part of the adventure. They made it work, and all with excellent attitudes!

In this video, youth leaders Misha and Lera provide some glimpses and observations from that successful and refreshing outing, which they would like to share with you. Here’s the link!

https://vimeo.com/user37287229/wintercamp

Blessings to you!

Sam & Amy Slobodian

BIEMs of Light: February 2026

Praises – Rejoice with us!

• In January, 11 students graduated from our Bible institute in Central Asia! Also in Central Asia, last month, several Afghani refugees and one Iranian refugee repented and accepted Christ as Savior!

• For the first time, the summer campground developed in Derman, Ukraine, has now housed a winter camp. Children and teens ages 10 and up got to escape the missiles and drones hitting Kyiv and spent a week in snow-clad beauty, where they participated in winter activities but also grew in their faith! See a video summary here:

  https://vimeo.com/user37287229/wintercamp

• During and following this past Christmas season in Turkey, our workers coordinated several free events that were especially geared toward sharing Christ with unbelieving Turks. We praise God for all those curious Muslims who attended. May the Lord continue to draw those souls to Himself!

• God continues to give our missionaries in Armenia, the Kellers, opportunities to evangelize both Armenians and other nationalities. Through street evangelism, they introduced 2 Iranian men to Christ!

Prayer – Pray with us!

• Evangelist Matthew (supported through BIEM’s Central Asia work) ministers in Iran. He states 3 of his disciples have been killed. He himself was beaten. Matthew says government forces are going to homes of known Christians and beating them. Believers are scattering. He urges prayers for believers in Iran.

• This winter BIEM is conducting a special project. Ukraine’s power grid has been taking a beating from Russian missiles and drones, leaving millions of citizens struggling to keep warm. Countless citizens are without electricity for many hours each day. We have received many requests from partnering churches for help with heat—funds for wood as well as fuel for generators. So far, we have sent $1,000 dollars each to 60 churches seeking to provide warm havens for desperate people in need. Because we have dozens more such requests, please pray for funds for this vital cause.

• One of our church plants in the Republic of Georgia has lost 2 workers: one left the country to get married, and the other relocated to work in 2 village ministries. The church requests prayer for suitable helpers, specifically “a full-time driver who is very capable in all things tech and children’s workers.”

• There are no updates regarding Vitaly Bilyak’s court case to have his conscription reversed. Nevertheless, Vitaly continues to share Christ. Since the commander assigns Vitaly to transport soldiers and officers in his vehicle, this duty provides excellent opportunities to share the Gospel. Please pray that, despite the lack of progress with the legal proceedings, Vitaly will remain encouraged in the fact that God is with him and using him.

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War Relief Updates - January 30, 2026

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

1. Some years ago, a family in one of BIEM’s supporting churches hosted an exchange student from Ukraine. They have kept in contact over the years. This week she reached out to them, requesting prayer for her father (named Gennady), who was conscripted into the military and was dispatched to the warfront. There, among other hardships, Gennady suffered frostbite and was transferred to a hospital in western Ukraine. Surgeons had to amputate all 10 toes. When the former student requested prayer for her father, this American family did more than that. They contacted BIEM about Gennady, and we were able to arrange for one of our Ukrainian pastors to visit him. Gennady is not yet saved, but as Pastor Victor spoke with him, he seemed open and requested a return visit since he will be hospitalized for at least 10 days. Please pray for Gennady to recover and most of all that he would open his heart to Christ.

2. This weekend some of our team from the Kyiv region of Ukraine plan to travel to Sloviansk, in the Donetsk region of eastern Ukraine. This trip will focus on sharing the Gospel with soldiers while supplying them with food and necessities. There is heavy fighting in that area, so please pray for safety of the team and for the soldiers to embrace the soul-saving Gospel. Those soldiers are fully aware that some of them will not return from Donetsk alive, so nearly all are ready to pray with believers who reach out to them.

3. Last week’s video introduced Vitaly and Natalia, a husband & wife team who founded “The Cross.” This Christian ministry aids and evangelizes Ukrainians drafted into the military. Last week, in response to Sam Slobodian’s request, Natalia shared an especially memorable experience from this outreach. This week, Vitaly likewise shares a special, heart-touching experience of his own. Please pray for an end of Russia’s war on Ukraine but also for the salvation of souls going into battle.

https://vimeo.com/user37287229/testimonies2

4. Yura and Violetta, our church planters in Lviv, are constantly reaching out to war victims with war relief that BIEM supplies. Recently, the battalion where some of their church’s men are stationed along the war front contacted them and asked for hulubchiki. This is a favorite, traditional Ukrainian staple that is often referred to as “rolled cabbage.” It is made up of rice and meat wrapped in cabbage leaves. (Somewhat like burritos, but cabbage leaves instead of tortillas.) BIEM provided the funds, and Violetta mobilized the church ladies to prepare a large batch. It is now on its way to the front. It turns out that the reason those men requested hulubchiki is that these treats are an ideal size and weight for delivery by military drones, which is the safest way for many of these men to receive supplies. Pray that this effort will give the soldiers from their church in Lviv opportunities to share Christ with these soldiers.

Sam Slobodian
President, BIEM

War Relief Updates - January 23, 2026

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

1. Yura and Violetta are our church planters in Lviv, a large city in the far western part of Ukraine. They request prayer for Violetta’s father, Yuri. Recently he was conscripted into the military. Since Yuri is 57 years old, he does not qualify for the military exemption for men aged 60 years and above. After a short training period, this week he was dispatched to the warfront. Because he does not know the Lord, Yura and Violetta are requesting prayer for his safety and most of all that he would come to know the Lord.

2. As most of our readers know, through the generosity of BIEM supporters we provided warm clothing for over 1,000 soldiers each of the past two winters. This winter we are conducting a different project. Ukraine’s power grid has been taking a beating from Russian missiles and drones, leaving millions of citizens struggling to keep warm. Countless numbers of people are without electricity for many hours each day. We have received many requests from our partnering churches for help with heat—providing funds for wood, as well as fuel for generators, which are a lifeline. So far, we have sent $1,000 dollars each to 60 churches struggling to provide warm havens for desperate people in need. Because we have dozens more such requests, we could certainly use funds for this vital cause.

3. A husband & wife team, Vitaly and Natalia founded "The Cross" — a Christian ministry to aid and evangelize Ukrainians drafted into the military. Since almost the beginning of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, BIEM has been working with and through them. Here, Sam Slobodian asks each of them to share a particularly memorable event from this ministry...

https://vimeo.com/user37287229/testimonies

4. The situation for Vitaly Bilyak is unchanged. There are no updates regarding his court case to have his conscription reversed. The extremely harsh winter that has blanketed Ukraine also makes life more difficult in the forest encampment where he is stationed. Nevertheless, Vitaly continues to share Christ. Since the commander continues to use Vitaly for transporting soldiers and officers in his vehicle, this duty gives him excellent opportunities to share the Gospel. Please pray that, despite the lack of progress with the legal proceedings, Vitaly would remain encouraged in the fact that the Lord is with him and that many believers are upholding him in prayer.

Sam Slobodian
President, BIEM

War Relief Updates - January 16, 2026

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

1. Recently several of our church planters who are serving as volunteer chaplains participated in the first meeting of volunteer chaplains from the Brotherhood of Independent Baptist churches of Ukraine. As these men shared experiences, discussed challenges, and prayed together, they received encouragement in this unique ministry. Chaplaincy is an important way our pastors can serve the Lord and their country of Ukraine. It opens doors of opportunity to share the Gospel with Ukrainian soldiers, most of whom are very open to hearing God’s Word and are glad to talk and pray with these pastors.

2. Olga Volostnova, who directs “The Hub” (a warehouse that receives and distributes war relief provided by BIEM) writes, “Dear friends, thank you for the opportunity to serve with our warehouse. We are grateful for the aid we have received to help the families of fallen soldiers. During this Christmas season we were able to distribute to many war victims through volunteers, chaplains, and pastors. Praise God!” Of course, that gratitude extends to all of you who have donated clothing, walkers, wheelchairs, and so much more.

3. In the past, our church planter Sergiy Koop had traveled to the war-torn eastern regions of Ukraine with his father-in-law, Vitaly Bilyak. Their goals had been to bless the needy with humanitarian aid and to evangelize along the warfront. But as we’ve reported, Vitaly was scooped up by the military and was told he’s in the military even though he’s a pastor. So, in this week’s video update, Sergiy makes the long drive eastward alone. But this time his primary goal was to visit and encourage specific men from his church who serve on the frontlines. He took them Christmas gifts and war relief, for sure, but with each man he spent special time in fellowship and prayer. Here are glimpses from Sergiy’s trip, which he titled, “Trip to the East.”

https://vimeo.com/user37287229/trip-east

4. Recently we shared that pastor Vitaly Bilyak, who was conscripted into the military (mentioned above in #3) requested help in purchasing a used vehicle through a special opportunity where those in the military can obtain used cars from neighboring European countries like Germany. Military status provides a special exemption from customs duties, which saves about 50%. He has begun this process, but apparently it’s not so easy. He writes, “I would like to buy a vehicle in more or less normal condition. This is turning out to be more difficult than I expected.” Therefore, as you pray for Vitaly to be released from the military, also please pray that he will be able to make this planned purchase.

Sam Slobodian
President, BIEM

War Relief Updates - January 9, 2026

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

1. Sasha Petrenko recently traveled to the east of Ukraine. Because he is well known by the military due to his repeated trips and distribution of humanitarian aid, the military asked him to deliver a vehicle, which had been sent for repairs. While at the front, Sasha discussed the local situation with military men there. They told him that there is a shortage of men. Many soldiers have been killed our wounded. Therefore, Sasha requested increased prayers for an end to the war. He concluded, “In our town, many people have already given their lives for Ukraine.”

2. Eugene Buyko, BIEM’s Director in Ukraine, shared this: “My duties for the mission include maintaining the mission’s vehicle. It’s a large, Ford Econoline. It requires very large tires, and I always keep some of these tires on hand. When I drove to Bilohorodka to change to winter tires. members of the Shevchenkove church met with me. (They are very active in helping the military with gifts of food and supplies.) They saw my old tires that I was planning to throw away and asked me to give them for the front. They explained that the military has a shortage of such large tires, so they even accept worn-out tires. So, I took them four old ones plus two old spare tires, for vehicles that will serve the military at the front. Thank you for your support.”

3. Many of you are praying for our missionary-pastor Vitaly Bilyak, who was unexpectedly drafted into the Ukrainian army. In this video, which he filmed both on and off the base where he is stationed in Western Ukraine, Vitaly gives an update and an overview of his situation and how the Lord is giving him opportunities to minister despite Vitaly’s desire to be back at home, fulfilling the role of pastor for his congregation in Ternopil.

https://vimeo.com/user37287229/pastor

4. Sergiy Koop, our church planter in Ternopil, was burdened for 4 soldiers who had been reached through his ministry but are now serving on the front. He wanted to visit them to encourage them through prayer and fellowship; plus, he wanted to take them a variety of items they needed, especially food. Doing so was a formidable challenge since those 4 are serving in different places on the warfront, all very far from Ternopil. He requested finances from BIEM to make such a trip, a request we happily fulfilled. Praise God, he was able to drive safely all the way there and back, a trip that yielded many blessings and opportunities. We will soon add a video about this trip to the other collection of videos on our website (BaptistInternational.org).

Sam Slobodian
President, BIEM

January 2026 Video Update

Dear Pastors and Friends,

Below is the link for our January 2026 video.

In the Western Ukraine town of Borschiv, BIEM church planters, the Skripniks, planned a special, post-Christmas holiday for local teens. In this way, both believing and non-believing youth could enjoy a fun day filled with tasty snacks, fun games, jokes, laughter, fellowship, and caroling—all within a wholesome, Christ-honoring atmosphere that included a Christmas message from the Word of God. In a country that daily experiences depressing news because of Russia’s war against it, this holiday shined fresh light and provided a breath of fresh air for these kids’ lives. May the Lord work in hearts to draw these young people to Himself.

To give you some glimpses of that day, the Skripniks provided this video overview, which needs no interpretation. We hope you enjoy it.

https://vimeo.com/user37287229/borschiv-youth

Blessings!
Sam & Amy Slobodian

BIEMs of Light: January 2026

Praises – Rejoice with us!

• In December, BIEM’s Field Director for Central Asia reported that one of our workers had a chance to do a presentation on the meaning of Christmas to an Afghani school. Over 400 students, teachers, and administrators heard. Later, three teachers attended a service and trusted Christ!

• From the director of the orphanage in Velike Polovetske, Ukraine: “I’d like to express my great gratitude to our American friends who have been taking care of us for so many years.... Thank you for your charity, for your concern for orphans, children deprived of parental care, as well as children from low-income families. I wish you all earthly blessings. May God always protect you….”

• In December we announced that our War Relief Fund had reached the required amount of $100,000 needed to receive the same amount in matching funds for 2025. Now more good news—another gift of $100,000 was made available to match war relief gifts in 2026. Praise God!

• Church planter Sasha Petrenko has now conducted his first wedding in the church in Smolyn. Sasha included the Gospel as part of the ceremony. For some unbelievers, it was the first wedding reception where they saw no alcohol or fighting! May the Lord use even this ceremony to draw people to Himself.

Prayer – Pray with us!

• In December, our church planter Sergiy Koop made an evangelistic trip to Ukraine’s east. “The most important thing I am taking with me is Bibles. Because Christmas is not just a holiday, it’s a reminder of Christ’s coming into this world....” Please pray for salvation decisions among those he visited.

• Mikhail, the son of our director in Ukraine, reports that pastors there receive many phone calls due to the war. Even strangers call, talk, request prayer, or ask about God or the Bible. He urged us to pray for their pastors who minister to these people.

• Central Asia: Evangelist Ruslan took gifts into a juvenile detention center and was telling the kids the real meaning of Christmas. Several of the detainees asked to know more about Jesus. As Ruslan was sharing the Gospel, police came and arrested him. During questioning, he said, “I wasn’t even telling them yet that Jesus is their only hope of eternal salvation and that they must repent of their sins and trust Jesus as their Savior... The police said, “Stop! He’s trying to evangelize us now.” They fined Ruslan about $1,500 but released him. Please pray the Gospel puts down roots and springs into eternal life.

• The next session of our seminary in Kyiv is in January. Please pray for both the instructors and students, that God will give them a blessed and safe class time.

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Merry Christmas from BIEM! - December 24, 2025

Dear friends of BIEM!

As our staff spends extra time with friends and loved ones during this week from Christmas to New Year’s, we hope that you, too, are able to spend time with your own loved ones. Please accept our sincere wishes for a blessed time of reflecting on God’s awesome plan of sending Jesus to earth to open a way of salvation for all who believe on Him. 

Sam Slobodian
President, BIEM