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Dear Friends,
Earlier this week, a drone approached the Centre with its target set on a petrol station just fifty metres away - you can see the damage in the photo above. The force of the blast shook nearby buildings, and Lyuba and her husband, Costa, saw the impact first-hand from their window, as it happened close to their apartment.
Unfortunately, radar systems did not detect the drone, so there was no warning. We are grateful that everyone is safe and unharmed, though the petrol station is now out of service. Whilst the Centre felt the shockwave, it sustained no damage. Now, both petrol stations in Lebedyn have been struck, leaving the town without fuel. Thankfully, the team has spare supplies to last for a short while. This is life in Lebedyn, day and night, yet the team remains as active as ever.
The bakery received its new oven, having to remove doors and their frames to fit the large appliance inside. They aimed to have it operational by Thursday (yesterday), as they will be visiting a village today where resources are depleted and many elderly residents struggle to access food. As such, our food bags are essential for them. Finding the same variety of groceries as before the war has become increasingly difficult, with inflation continuing to rise. Each food bag, which once cost about $17, now exceeds $30. Three out of four regional food wholesalers have closed, making it even more challenging for us to obtain bulk foods.
Recently, we renewed separate registrations for the church and mission centre, obtaining government approval to distribute humanitarian aid. With leadership changes and ongoing conflict, proper documentation was essential. Svetlana, our resident lawyer and now local judge, reviewed the new laws and confirmed that both entities have "Critical Status," granting them certain exemptions and benefits. We are currently working on an issue that could greatly benefit our efforts; Bohdan requests prayers as we research further. Details will be shared once confirmed.
Last Sunday, Valentine was ordained as a deacon in the church. In Ukraine, the government recognises only two levels of church leadership: Pastor and Deacon. Now, Valentine is authorised to conduct weddings and funerals. His journey has been remarkable—despite a difficult childhood, Valentine came to the Centre as a youth, became a Christian, and underwent leadership training at Kyiv Theological Seminary. Witnessing his progress is truly amazing. Below, you’ll find a photo of Valentine’s ordination by the three pastors, alongside an image of Nikita, Vika, and Dasha, three other young people following in Valentine’s footsteps. They’re shown singing and leading worship at church. Currently, Nikita and Vika are participating in baptismal classes and all will assist with the upcoming Easter camp as leaders, where we anticipate nearly 100 children joining in for a memorable experience together.
Bohdan has requested prayers for the young people mentioned above, for preparations for camp, and for enough helpers since many former volunteers have left. He also asks for support for Micha, our live-in caretaker, and his family, who are relocating to another country to join their relatives. Both Micha and his wife will be deeply missed, as she played a vital role in every camp we organised.
Lastly, wood stoves are being distributed to families who require reliable heating and a means to cook. Lyuba, shown below, recently returned to the church and attended weekday aid services. She is a widow whose children have moved away from home. Her son, Ratislav, is currently serving on the front lines; he is the only surviving member of his platoon and, due to security reasons, she cannot communicate with him. Lyuba became a Christian after participating in these services and has since taken an active role at the centre. She is so appreciative for receiving the wood stove, which will be invaluable to her.
We are so grateful for your continued prayers and financial support as without them we would not be writing updates like this where we have seen prayer answered. Thank you!
Every blessing
Peter Martin
Founding Director of Hope Lebedyn
