This week, volunteers prepared a 167kg shipment of urgent aid from Ballynahinch Baptist Church bound for Sumy, Ukraine, including first aid consumables, hygiene products, and, as always, Tena pads. These items may seem simple, but they’re a lifeline for those caring for the sick and bedridden in difficult conditions.
Not long after sending the shipment, we received an encouraging report from our partners in Sumy, who had travelled to the town of Yampil in the Sumy Oblast. The Lord opened the door for them to hold a church service in the town centre, where people gathered eagerly to listen to the preaching of the Word. Many expressed a longing for regular visits and asked for help for those unable to care for themselves — a reminder that physical aid and spiritual hope go hand in hand.
The team in Sumy shared their desire to serve in Yampil regularly, asking for prayer that God would guide them with wisdom as they minister to the people there.
Yampil Photos/Video:
Later in the week, they loaded up the humanitarian van and set off to the village of Chernatske, where two gatherings were held. The people were deeply grateful for the supplies, saying that no one else comes to help, and that no aid services visit their area.
From there, the team continued on to Khutir, a small neighbouring village with just seven remaining residents, six of whom came to the service. The team shared that they felt in their hearts that the visit was not in vain, and that prayer filled each encounter with meaning.
Finally, in Velyka Berizka, they held their last meeting of the day. The Lord blessed the Word that was shared, and through one of the testimonies, a soul was reconciled with God. Praise the Lord!
Across all these visits, the team described how people listened with deep attention and asked thoughtful questions, seeking truth and longing for someone to talk to about spiritual matters.
The Sumy team expressed their thanks to God that they can do His work, and for your prayers.
As we reflect on this, we’re reminded that every shipment, every mile travelled, and every conversation matters. The need is great, both physically and spiritually, but the hope of Christ continues to reach into even the smallest and most remote villages.