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Dear Friends,
This week has been full of opportunity to meet with people both within the Centre and throughout the surrounding region. Despite frequent power outages affecting homes, the Centre has been able to maintain electricity, enabling several days of baking to help provide for the community's needs.
The church has been actively involved in supporting those most in need, holding two services on Tuesday, another on Wednesday, and a further service on Friday. These gatherings have provided essential aid and freshly baked bread, with many people attending and receiving support.
Pastor Andrew arranged for the use of a swimming pool in a small town approximately 25 kilometres outside of Lebedyn, which was generously made available for conducting baptisms on Thursday.
The team is preparing to assist many soldiers in the area, sending sleeping bags, tents, and pastries baked by the team to encourage those serving on the frontline. In addition, the team offers prayers with those who wish to receive them.
Bohdan was able to deliver medical aid which had been recently donated, to the local hospital. The head doctor expressed deep gratitude for this support. The sewing team also contributed by making bed linen, as many soldiers transported to the hospital must bring their own, which is not possible for most. Thanks to these efforts, the hospital has permitted the puppet theatre and the team to hold Christmas services in the bomb shelter, bringing hope to patients.
Last weekend, the children’s, teen, and youth groups all met, with attendance continuing to grow. The church’s influence within the community is becoming increasingly evident. For example, one woman, having just given birth, expressed her desire to have her child dedicated to God before returning to the battlefield. She has never been to the church before but knew she wanted her child to be prayed for in these exceptional times.
Significant needs continue for those remaining in the region. Elderly residents face daily struggles, while Larisa and her orphanage are challenged by the high cost of running their generator. Although the generator was kindly donated, the expense of diesel is considerable, especially with power outages lasting a minimum of six hours each day.
Please continue to pray for the safety of the team and the success of their plans for the festive season. There is much work to be done, the needs are great, and both the team and its resources are relatively small. Supplies of food and items for presents are running low, making preparations for upcoming events increasingly challenging, but the team are tenacious and will find the right things in time I’m sure.
Thank you for your continued support and prayers.
Every blessing
Peter Martin
Founding Director of Hope Lebedyn
