Mykhailo Pimonenko
Married to Vera and with two believing daughters, Mykhailo Pimonenko serves as the pastor of ‘Church of Grace’ in Sumy, Ukraine. From the start of the war, they have continued to serve the people of their community, praying for them and holding out the message of hope while at the same time distributing humanitarian aid to those in greatest need. Not only that, but those in the church have also provided medical aid, helped evacuate people who wanted to leave, and been a blessing to those in nearby hospitals as they share the Gospel with the wounded and provide them with small gifts.
Over time, Bible Study groups have begun for people who have started attending the church, some of whom have come to faith. Due to the many new individuals who have started attending, every church service is full, and special services are held for those with disabilities.
Particular care is offered to those who have lost loved ones as a result of the war. Meetings are held for the families of the fallen and time is given to support and comfort every wife, mother and child who grieves over a husband, son or father.
It is not easy for ‘Church of Grace’ to serve where there is the constant shelling of border towns, the passing overhead of drones and missiles, and the terror invoked by the repeated sound of sirens. However, despite these uncertain times, they continue to hold fast to the good news of the Gospel and are, therefore, confident that there are better days ahead.
‘Weeping may tarry for the night time, but joy comes with the morning’
