A pastoral letter on three years of war in Ukraine

Today marks the third anniversary of the war in Ukraine. The following pastoral letter is written by Rev. M.L. Smith, Director of International Missions for Lutheran Church–Canada (LCC).

Beloved brothers and sisters in Christ,

As we mark three years of war in Ukraine, our hearts are heavy with sorrow for all those affected by this ongoing conflict. The members of Lutheran Church–Canada (LCC) grieve with those who have suffered loss, displacement, and unimaginable hardship. We especially hold in our prayers the countless families torn apart—husbands and fathers separated from their wives and children, uncertain of when they might be reunited. The pain of such separation, endured for the sake of defending one’s home and loved ones, is a burden no family should have to bear.

As the war rages on, we continue to stand in solidarity with the people of Ukraine, offering our heartfelt compassion, prayers, and tangible support. We remember those forced to flee their homes, many of whom now live as refugees in foreign lands, struggling to rebuild their lives. We also acknowledge those who remain, enduring the daily realities of war, trusting in God’s provision and strength. May the Lord be their refuge and stronghold in these troubled times.

Partnership with the Synod of Evangelical Lutheran Churches in Ukraine

We give thanks to God for the courage and dedication of our brothers and sisters in the Synod of Evangelical Lutheran Churches in Ukraine (SELCU). We especially give thanks for the faithful shepherds who have embraced their calling in the face of overwhelming adversity, tirelessly caring for their flocks even as they themselves endure hardship and uncertainty.

Despite being separated from their own families—many of whom have found safety in Germany and other parts of Europe—these pastors have remained steadfast, offering spiritual nourishment and works of mercy to those in need. Their selfless sacrifices exemplify the love of Christ, who laid down His life for His sheep. We thank God for their unwavering commitment to the Gospel, as they continue to proclaim His Word and administer the Sacraments amid war’s devastation. Their example reminds us that the Church endures, not because of human strength, but by the sustaining power of Christ, our Good Shepherd.

The faithful ministry of Rev. Olexsiy Navrotskyy

Among these faithful servants, we particularly commend the work of our missionary in Ukraine, Rev. Olexsiy Navrotskyy. Throughout these difficult years, he has remained steadfast in his calling, shepherding the flock entrusted to him at the Nikolaev parish and Lviv mission.

When the war began, most of his congregation in Nikolaev was forced to seek refuge elsewhere, leaving behind only a small remnant. Yet, instead of retreating, Rev. Navrotskyy turned outward, faithfully serving his community, overseeing LCC’s Ukraine Aid Fund, and providing both physical and spiritual care to those in need. Through his tireless ministry, he has shared the love of Christ in word and deed, bringing the comfort of the Gospel to many lives.

By God’s grace, this faithfulness has borne great fruit. The once-diminished congregation now overflows with new members who have come to hear the Word of God and receive Christ’s Life-giving gifts. The church is filled with those seeking the peace that only Christ Jesus can give. We rejoice in this remarkable witness to the power of the Gospel, which shines ever brighter in the darkest of times.

A call to prayer

As we reflect on these three years of suffering and endurance, we lift our voices in prayer. We implore our merciful Lord to bring an end to this war, to restore peace, and to heal the wounds of all who have been affected. We pray for the people of Ukraine, for those displaced, for the grieving, for those living in fear, and for those who hunger and thirst for justice and restoration.

We also commend to God the members of SELCU and their pastors, who continue their ministry with faithfulness and perseverance. We pray for Rev. Olexsiy Navrotskyy and the work he carries out in Nikolaev, Odessa and Lviv, that the Lord would strengthen him and bless his labours for the sake of Christ’s kingdom. Finally, we remember the Ukrainian diaspora—our brothers and sisters now scattered here in Canada and throughout the world—asking that they would find comfort, support, and a steadfast faith in their new circumstances.

May the Lord of all peace, who has conquered sin and death through the victory of His Son, grant His abiding presence to His people in Ukraine and throughout the world. We place our trust in His unfailing mercy, knowing that He will sustain His Church until the day when all things are made anew and His faithful dwell in eternal peace.

In Christ,

Rev. M.L. Smith

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