After Four Years of War,
Ukrainian Churches Remain a Source of Hope
Amid the ongoing struggles of life during war, Nazarene churches in Ukraine continue to serve their neighbors with Christ’s compassion—offering food, supplies, transportation, shelter, counseling, and spiritual support to families in crisis. This past summer, that care took a joyful form—through Vacation Bible School (VBS) ministries that brought hope to hundreds of children and teens.
In cities like Koziatyn, Pozniaky, and Kyiv, local congregations opened their doors and hearts to the young people in their communities. These programs became places of refuge and joy. Through songs, Bible stories, art, and games, children learned that they are loved and valued—that even in the midst of hardship, they are not forgotten. For many parents, seeing their children participate was a reminder that faith and compassion can still overcome darkness.
Across every location, the message was clear: God’s love endures, and the Church remains a steadfast source of hope for the next generation.
The Result of Compassion:
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Where Joy Breaks Through: Stories of Healing and Faith
In Odesa, thirteen-year-old Lyosha is one of many children in Ukraine who are growing up in an orphanage. He arrived at the VBS expected to be bored. Instead, he found belonging. “It was the most amazing time I’ve had in a long while,” Lyosha said. “We played, laughed, and I learned about God in a way I finally understood. I made friends and felt that I really matter.”
In Pozniaky, parents reported how their children returned home full of energy and joy—talking about Bible stories, songs, and new friends. For families living with daily uncertainty, these moments became anchors of stability and gratitude. And in Kyiv, a shy nine-year-old girl who had withdrawn because of trauma found her voice again. By the final day of camp, she stood up in front of the other children and recited a poem with confidence. Her parents later shared that she had become more open and expressive at home, evidence of healing beginning to take root.
