The latest reports of the crisis in Ukraine continue to indicate that as many as 5 million Ukrainians will be displaced in neighboring countries such as Poland and Romania, and a large number of internally displaced people are beginning to form in Western Ukraine. The greatest needs for these displaced families will include finding access to food, water, shelter, clothing, sanitation and hygiene.
The recent crisis was triggered by the escalated tension mounting around the border between the Ukraine and Russia and Russia’s invasion on Thursday (Feb. 24). Churches and individuals are being encouraged to pray for Ukraine by downloading the Ukraine Prayer Guide.
Ready to serve
Right now Southern Baptists and ministry partners are already on the ground providing emergency food relief, shelter, clothing and more to displaced families.
“With the recent Russian invasion of Ukraine, we join all those in Eastern Europe in praying for peace,” IMB President Paul Chitwood said.
“We know that God is sovereign in all situations, and Scripture reminds us that He is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit,” he said. “We keep our focus on Him, asking for His protection of the innocent and trusting that His justice will prevail. Pray with us that Jesus Christ would be glorified through the crisis in Eastern Europe, and that Southern Baptists would remain vigilant in meeting the physical, emotional and spiritual needs of those who are suffering.”
As the situation worsens, Send Relief partners are ready to provide further food relief, meet shelter needs and offer transportation to assist those impacted by this escalating crisis. Send Relief, the combined compassion ministry effort of the International Mission Board and the North American Mission Board, is currently working with local Baptist partners in Ukraine to respond to the growing humanitarian crisis.
How you can pray
Pray for:
— The people of Ukraine. Pray for strength, courage and perseverance as their home is threatened by conflict.
— Safe passages out of conflict zones for displaced populations.
— Government officials to lead with wisdom in this tense time.
— The estimated 4 million displaced people who will be forcibly removed from their homes. Pray that in the face of conflict, they will find psychological, emotional and spiritual healing from this trauma.
— Soldiers on both sides of this conflict to be safe from harm.
— Local churches, relief workers and humanitarian aid organizations to care for what could be a massive wave of displaced peoples in Ukraine.
— Disciples Church in L’viv, Ukraine, and its church plant in Bryukhovychi. Many of the people there are displaced from the East. Pray for peace for these believers as they had hoped this conflict from eight years ago was over and now, they are facing it again.
— The Ukrainian Baptist Theological Seminary as it wrestles with how to assist its students in this time of crisis.
— Ukrainian believers as they seek to be a light in the darkness.
— Ukrainians who have never heard the gospel to have an opportunity to experience the hope of Jesus.
For more information on how you can help, click here.
EDITOR’S NOTE — This story was originally posted by the International Mission Board.
