Before the full-scale invasion, Deacon Oleksandr Merlo was involved in church planting ministry in the Sloviansk area of the Donetsk region. At present, he is ministering to three churches – one in Sloviansk and two in nearby villages, as there are no pastors there.
Some of these churches were planted after the invasion. He had to relocate during the first few months but returned once the frontline was pushed back.
As several churches no longer had pastors, Oleksandr had to reorganise the ministry to support the remaining local churches and their members in the area. From the remaining 19 members, the number of people attending these churches has grown to 106. Despite a difficult situation, conversions are taking place, and some people are coming back home.
Oleksandr has been receiving emergency support through SGA for two years. This help is especially valuable, as the closer one is to the frontline, the cost of food and other necessities increases. Fuel expenses are also considerable, as he frequently travels to visit church members in nearby villages.