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Frontlines
Ukraine’s Churches Respond
Kateryna Nikonorova, SGA’s Communications Coordinator in Ukraine, reports:
Since the beginning of the full-scale invasion, Ukrainian churches have continually adapted to meet the changing needs of their communities. In the early years, ministry focused primarily on meeting urgent physical needs such as food and shelter. Today, those needs have become more acute and, sadly, more long-term. New challenges continue to emerge for local churches, yet God’s grace remains sufficient.
Last winter was one of the hardest since the war began. Russia intensified its attacks on civilian energy infrastructure, including power plants, gas facilities, and district heating systems. At the same time, unusually cold weather brought temperatures of -15°C to -20°C for extended periods, while many homes dropped to freezing indoors. In these circumstances, support for generator fuel was vital. Churches remained open to provide warmth, a place to charge phones, and to provide practical help for their communities. In the hardest-hit areas of Kyiv, churches also opened soup kitchens to serve hot meals to their neighbours.
Grace Shelter in Odessa was left without electricity or running water for much of the winter. Water had to be delivered for drinking, cooking, and washing, making everyday life with more than 50 children a daily struggle. Despite these hardships, and constant missile and drone attacks, the house parents and children continued to look to God for comfort and protection, placing their trust above all in Jesus Christ.
With the support of SGA, churches were also able to organise winter and summer camps for children and teenagers. These camps offer far more than recreation and activities. Many of the children come from difficult family situations or live under the constant stress of war. For them, being welcomed into a church family and experiencing the love of God through His people can become a life-changing experience. After each camp, youth leaders continue ministering to these children through Sunday schools, children’s clubs, and youth groups, helping them grow in faith and providing ongoing care and discipleship.
Ukrainian churches are also taking on an increasingly important role in caring for the growing number of people who have lost loved ones and are struggling with the lasting impact of war. Counselling has become an essential part of church ministry. Many churches have established support groups for women whose husbands have been killed or are missing in action. Through practical care, compassionate listening, and biblical encouragement, these ministries provide a safe place where women can be heard, understood, and comforted by those who have experienced similar loss and who have themselves found hope in God’s grace.
Another ministry that has emerged from the realities of war is “On the Shield.” To return “on the shield” means to fall in battle and be brought back to your home. This ministry provides dignified transportation of fallen soldiers to their families. Behind every name is a grieving family, and Christian volunteers are equipped to serve in these difficult moments – offering comfort, prayer, practical support, and the beginning of an ongoing relationship through which further care can be provided.
We continue to pray for the day when the war and suffering will come to an end. Until then, Ukrainian believers are increasingly shifting their focus from emergency relief to long-term ministry.
Pray for these ministries and the faithful workers who continue bringing the hope of Christ to those who need it most.