As we watch the war in Ukraine unfold, it is hard to capture in words what many in the Slavic community are feeling. A confluence of shock, disbelief, horror and grief are probably just a few of the feelings that ebb and flow with each day. Many leaders in the Spokane community have reached out to the Slavic people in our city asking how they can help and have offered prayer and support. For this we are extremely grateful and feel loved by the city that has welcomed us over the last 30 years.
Many here in Spokane have family and friends living in Ukrainian cities that have been bombed and are currently under attack. The immediate course of action being undertaken is contacting loved ones and ensuring they are alive. Next is to ensure those civilians who are in the line of fire can find unencumbered passage to safety and shelter. The priority is to pray for the safety of people and the prevention of loss of innocent life.
Pray especially for the pastors and clergy as they work to prepare their congregations for whatever may come. Finally, we pray for churches and countries that will see a huge influx of refugees fleeing the war.
In addition to these immediate needs, we pray that God brings an end to the suffering and restores peace in the land. Leaders in the Spokane Slavic faith community are meeting and discussing how we can keep our Spokane friends up to date with regards to needs on the ground as they unfold and will keep you posted.
As Christians we are against war and bloodshed. We believe our most powerful weapon is prayer. Scripture tells us that, “The prayer of the righteous is powerful and effective (James 5:16).” We call upon all churches in Spokane to join us in prayer for the above stated needs.
We also call upon all people of faith to live in hope even in the face of hardships. This type of confidence is not based on anything we can do but on what God already did through Jesus Christ. Because we anticipate an end in which Christ “makes all things new” through the power of the resurrection, we are encouraged to persevere through today’s troubles until the day that “His Kingdom come, and His will be done on earth as it is in heaven.”
Again, thank you for your prayers and support during this time.
We ask that you pray for children and the elderly being evacuated on trains.
Also, please pray for supplies and communication to flow into basements and subway stations where people are taking refuge.
Leadership of the following churches in Spokane:
Pilgrim Slavic Baptist Church
Spokane Slavic Baptist Church
On The Hill
Pacific Keep Church
Ukrainian Church of Spokane
Center of Life Church
Father’s House Church
Light of The Salvation Baptist Church
International Mission Church
This article has been posted by Christian Leader staff. The Christian Leader is the magazine of U.S. Mennonite Brethren.
