Russia takes over part of the country

 

Fear of the future. Worrisome memories of communist days.
Instability. Confusion. Violence. This is the new normal in the
country of Ukraine.

After months of political jockeying between pro-Russian and pro-
Ukrainian groups, Russia recently took over the Ukrainian province
of Crimea. Now, confusion and conflict are increasing in the eastern
part of Ukraine as pro-Russian elements clash with the Ukrainian
police and army. Some government buildings have been overtaken.
As tension continues to build, many Ukrainians wonder what
will happen next. Dark clouds of a potential civil war loom on the
horizon. Some residents have fled to other parts of the country out
of fear for their lives.

Tension in Ukraine

A Muslim people group known as the Tatars, who once experienced
persecution at the hand of the Russians, have fled the
Crimean Peninsula into mainland Ukraine. They left hurriedly
with very few belongings and are in need of food, clothing, and
shelter. More importantly, they need the life-changing power of
Jesus Christ. Doors are opening for Ukrainian believers to minister
to these Crimean Tatars. However, this great opportunity also places
financial strain on the believers as they provide food and emergency
supplies to these displaced people.

In response to the ongoing crisis, CAM is launching an International
Crisis project to provide Christian literature and humanitarian
aid. Food and medical supplies will go to Tatar refugees and other
needy people. We plan to give New Testaments, Bible story books,
and other Christian literature to hundreds of churches all over
Ukraine. The churches will use the materials to reach out to traumatized
citizens with a message of hope.

In times of crisis, people instinctively call upon God for help.
In their distress, they search for answers and peace. Church leaders
in Ukraine are noticing an increased interest in the things of
God. Some compare it to the spiritual hunger in Ukraine after the
collapse of communism. “People are looking for relief from their
emotional pain and answers to the present problems,” a church
leader reported.

During this difficult time for Ukrainians, we have an opportunity
to be the servants of Jesus—to “preach good tidings unto the
meek … bind up the brokenhearted … comfort all that mourn …
give unto them beauty for ashes … that He might be glorified”
(Isaiah 61:1-3).

If you with to contribute to Crisis Projects please click here.