A significant gospel opportunity has arisen as at result of Russia’s invasion of the Ukraine, and laborers are needed for that harvest of souls.
A call has gone out to Ukrainian believers and churches, those familiar with the language in that war-torn country, to pray and share the gospel with Ukrainians who are still in the country as well as refugees.
John Barnett, missions strategist for the Kentucky Baptist Convention, also serves on the national level as ambassador for refugees and displaced people for Send Relief.
Barnett pointed out that in a span of just one week, there have been 28,000 people requesting online prayer and wanting to know more about Christ.
Barnett said this presents an unprecedented opportunity to minister to others — but what is needed are people who can speak Ukrainian and would be willing to be online responders to pray with people and share the gospel.
Call, pray, share
Barnett is focusing his efforts on finding volunteers in North America to talk with those impacted by the Russian invasion and to provide them with the hope found by trusting in Christ.
“In the midst of tragedy, God is opening the hearts of people,” Barnett said. “The call we are making is for anyone who knows the language — we need believers who will be online responders who will call and pray and share the gospel. We need people who can speak the language because we have 28,000 people so far who will give their time to talk to people about the Lord.”
Barnett noted a website created a week ago has also resulted in 232,000 people visiting the site, and that it continues to grow hourly. A QR code has been posted in areas of refugee concentration and other strategic locations.
“Most are using their phones as the primary means of information,” according to Send Relief, which operates on Cooperative Program funds and other donations.
He added the need is prevalent in 12 Eastern Europe countries impacted by the war and the flood of refugees exiting Ukraine.
There is also a need for persons who are capable of helping translate documents, website text and ads to the Ukrainian language. Additionally, Barnett said there is a need for Ukrainian videos to be made to help refugees as they enter the U.S. The videos will include a gospel presentation.
Those wanting to help with translating documents can click this link to register.
EDITOR’S NOTE — This article was written by Chip Hutcheson and first published by Kentucky Today, news service of the Kentucky Baptist Convention.
