New Ukraine update from SELCU pastor, aid fund update from LCC

UKRAINE – The following letter was written by Rev. Sergey Bevz, pastor of Lutheran Church–Canada (LCC)’s partner church the Synod of Evangelical Lutheran Churches in Ukraine (SELCU):

Dear friends in Christ,

Although Ukraine has had to endure many hardships these past few months, we also have received many blessings. Today, I want to share news of a great blessing. The sanctuary of our church building is now complete and we held the dedication service for our newly renovated church on July 24, 2022. SELCU Bishop Alexander Yurchenko led the dedication and visited with our parishioners and guests. Unfortunately nearly 70% of our congregation was unable to join us for the service, since many of them have been evacuated abroad during the war. However, these members rejoiced at this news and are looking forward to worshiping in the church as soon as they are able to return.

It has been a long and difficult road since our church’s roof collapsed due to heavy snow a couple of winters ago. After this, and with the war, it has been a journey full of trials and lessons of faith. Yet, during these difficult days, the Lord brought new people to our church and the new sanctuary is filled with people.

At this moment we have about the same attendance as before the war began. Several refugees seeking shelter in our city are now attending adult instruction classes. Our congregation has been active in serving these refugees and those suffering since the war started. Over 200 people in need visit our church each week. We do our best to provide food and aid packages for them and comfort them with the Gospel. We are thankful that the Lord has given us this opportunity to meet the needs of all these people. And we give thanks to God for all the support and many prayers we receive from Lutheran Church–Canada, especially for helping us rebuild our church. We value our partnership in the Gospel, our close friendship, and your love for us, which is clearly seen in such a difficult time.

Your brother in Christ, Rev. Sergey Bevz

REMINDER: Lutheran Church–Canada (LCC)’s Ukraine Aid Fund directly supports our partner church, the Synod of Evangelical Lutheran Churches in Ukraine (SELCU) during this current crises. Another aid fund for Ukraine established by Concordia Lutheran Mission Society (CLMS) will contribute to rebuilding efforts and other expenses, anticipating the significant financial need that will arise in the aftermath of this current conflict. As auxiliaries of LCC, the funds raised through CLMS, and Lutheran Women’s Missionary League of Canada (LWMLC) to name another example, will be directed to our partner Church in Ukraine through LCC. This is just one of the ways that the various auxiliaries, listed service organizations, and people of our Synod are working together, as one Body under Christ in support of humanitarian works of mercy. Canadian Lutheran World Relief (CLWR) is also working to provide general humanitarian relief in Ukraine through the help of their partner organizations.

Print this article