Over two years ago, Russia launched a full-scale invasion of Ukraine. Since then, thousands of families have been uprooted and countless innocent lives have been lost. This week, we'll hear stories from Ukrainians and, together, pray for peace to sweep across their land.
Sunday 25 August
‘When the war started and explosions were rumbling around, we didn't want to leave,' says Daryna. ‘But when Mariupol burst into flames like in American movies, and the whole city was shaking under explosions... despite the risk, we got out of the city. We left everything.' Lord, we pray for your protection for the people of Ukraine today. Amen.
Monday 26 August
A Tearfund partner helped Daryna and her husband with housing, providing them with all the essentials they needed. Recently, they've helped Daryna to get a job. ‘Although I work outside of my profession,' says Daryna, ‘it helps me to recover a little, to take my mind off things. I am so grateful for the help.' Pray for Daryna's mental health to improve.
Tuesday 27 August
Andriy and Anna fled Ukraine with their five children. They remember the freezing queues, more than 12 miles long, as they attempted to make it over the border into Moldova. A Tearfund partner and local Christian families stepped in to help. Praise God for the food, bedding, financial support and welcoming smiles that helped the family begin again.
Wednesday 28 August
Andriy explains how his children were ‘warmly received' as they began their new school in Moldova. The family had been through so much, yet they could begin to put the past behind them when they were welcomed with open arms. Pray for Ukrainian refugee children, that a ceasefire will be declared so they can enjoy their childhood.
Thursday 29 August
A prayer for peace. Lord, we lift Ukraine to you today. We pray that peace will flood the land. We pray that conflict will end and that fresh hope will spring up. Lord, we pray that through your Holy Spirit, whole communities will be able to return to their homes. In your name. Amen.
Friday 30 August
As war descended on Ukraine, Olena and her church wanted to help. Based in the battered city of Zhytomyr, they heard about the work of a Tearfund partner. Joining the Social Ministry Workshop, their ideas to reach out into the city soon began to take off. Pray a blessing over the work of the local church and the seminary.
Saturday 31 August
Olena and her team created a ministry for elderly people. ‘Many of them are very lonely,' says Olena. ‘They think that they are of no interest to other people. So our club is a way for them to feel that they are seen and heard.' Praise God that today more than 150 elderly people are enjoying tea and activities at the community club.
