Frontlines

Pure and Undefiled

Ministry to Widows

Religion that is pure and undefiled before God is to visit orphans and widows in their affliction. But as well as meeting their very real physical needs, this surely includes sharing with them the Gospel – the good news of Jesus Christ by which they are invited into the Kingdom of God where, robed in Christ’s righteousness, all that their Heavenly Father knows they need will forever be provided.

This explains why, in this its 75th anniversary year, dedicated as it is to Gospel expansion, widow’s ministry remains very close to SGA’s heart.

One SGA-supported pastor who is active in supporting widows is Pastor Daniel Kryston. From his church in Poland, the congregation offers practical help to a dozen women aged between 44 and 89 who have lost their husbands, resolving problems which, though sometimes seemingly small, can nonetheless have significantly troubling consequences.

Daniel describes the ministry as one that ‘has been a tremendous tool in bringing assistance and blessing’ to the women who, all born again believers, have been greatly encouraged in the Gospel.

In Serbia, Avram Dega serves those whom he knows to be in desperate need. Living costs in Serbia have doubled since the global pandemic, making it even more difficult for those who are living in poverty. But whilst some, like Lida, live in homes that are in urgent need of repair, and others, like Maria, battle with significant chronic disease, all are grateful to God for the support that they receive through SGA. And their joy in the Gospel testifies to His goodness, despite their ongoing difficult circumstances.

In Moldova, widows are being cared for too. Among them is Tatyana who, having lost her husband long ago, now lives alone. Visited by believers from a church in Balti, she gladly received both the groceries and the Gospel they carried to her door. As a result, Tatyana came to faith in Christ and was subsequently baptised.

Grateful for SGA’s financial support, Pastor Peter Mihalchiuk spoke of how, whilst meeting the material needs of those who are often left to struggle on alone, Christians also have a wonderful opportunity to witness to those whose greatest need is to hear of the One who is both a loving Lord and an all-sufficient Saviour.

Please pray that God would continue to cause many a widow’s heart to sing for joy.