In Mark chapter 6 when the disciples returned from preaching the Gospel and ministering to people, Jesus instructed them to come aside from the busyness of all that was going on so that they might rest and be refreshed.
Recently the Ukrainian Baptist Union sought to do the same for 400 chaplains, chaplain assistants, and others who are currently serving military personnel, as they gathered together for their 14th Chaplaincy Forum.
Over the two days, participants shared in fellowship, received training, and engaged in prayer and mutual support of one another. Among them were those who had arrived directly from the front lines, full-time military chaplains and others who had stepped away from duties for a short period of time to attend the forum. The aim of their time together was to restore strength, deepen practical knowledge, encourage shared learning, and renew their vision for ministry.
Sessions covered psychological and psychiatric care, support for families of those missing in action, assistance for service members returning from captivity, and care for veterans and their families.
There are more than 700 volunteer chaplains—men and women—serving across Ukraine. They are regularly travelling to the front lines, providing ongoing care for military personnel, and supporting veterans and their families.
Pray that they will continue to know God’s sustaining strength and help day by day as they seek to share the Gospel in very difficult circumstances.