Shortly after the war in Ukraine broke out, Bob was asked by Converge to coordinate distribution of aid to our partner churches and organizations within Ukraine and in neighboring countries receiving displaced people. More than $500,000 has been sent to the Converge World Relief Ukraine Fund! This task has dominated much of the past 7 weeks - even while traveling to the Middle East and Europe over the last two!
Every penny is sent directly to local pastors, regional and national leaders, and partners helping the displaced. In addition to the obvious goal of providing shelter, food, care, and necessities to the victims - we seek to strengthen the local church in the Ukrainian communities where they serve. We pray that their ability to be the hands, feet, and heart of Jesus during this crisis will provide a platform for proclaiming the gospel, and increase their effectiveness for the growth of the kingdom of God.
1. Today we received an update from the Baptist Union of Ukraine. Please take a moment to read it, and pray for our brothers and sisters there. The PDF can be found HERE.
2. A Regional leader for Ternopil Oblast (Ivan) sent along these photos along with an update: (Bob was with Ivan and the pastors in these photos last November!)
Refugees collected to begin their journey to the west. Converge funds provide gas for the multiple trips each week.
Pastor Viktor (2nd from right) and some of his team of drivers from the Kremenets church.
Families from Mariupol at a stop midway on their journey to safety.
A windshield damaged by shrapnel is taped so that the journey may continue.
A makeshift memorial to two drivers killed rescuing people from Mariupol.
Sunday school rooms at the Kremenets church are used for housing refugees.
This photo was entitled, "Little displaced girls have birthdays, too."
3. Many of you have contributed to the Converge World Relief Fund. Thank you!
4. The need is great! If you would like to contribute, go to: https://www.converge.org/missions/world-relief
