Updates from Ukraine
Since we first heard from Sarah regarding the work of Rev. Oleg Starodubets in Ukraine, our church has been holding him and those working with him in prayer, and offering financial donations as we are able. Here is a recent update from Sarah:
Dear friends from Minnesota, Massachusetts, & Mississippi,
Thank you for your support of Rev. Oleg Starodubets and his work to aid internally displaced Ukrainians!
Apologies for the delay in following up with you and for the group email. So much has happened, in the world and in my head/heart as I reflect on the wider context of my time in Russia (esp. 2013-2014) and as I follow news out of Ukraine. For now, I’d like to simply give a brief update along with my sincere thanks, but please feel free to reply individually for more detailed discussion.
For some, it will be news to learn that I traveled to Krakow, Poland, in the last week of March to assist efforts supporting Ukrainian refugees. (Attached are few pics from the trip; I’ll send a brief reflection separately.) Truth is, I didn’t even put away my suitcases until yesterday. As soon as I got back, I came down with an infection and didn’t get over it for about 3 weeks, even though I took some additional PTO to rest. Thanks for your patience!
Firstly – your money! I had some issues with Western Union and with my bank (Russian hackers??) that delayed the transfer of funds, but all of your donations were finally received by Oleg on March 22nd. Together, our donations totaled: $3,100. Thank you!!!
Your donations no doubt contributed to their ability to continue opening up new shelters for internally displaced persons. Recently, they acquired access to accommodations for 80 more people. Previously, they set up spaces in some former kindergarten facilities; one of these has over 50 people, 30+ are children from Lugansk (in the east, where strikes killed at least 60 people this weekend who were sheltering in a school there).
In addition to food/shelter for internally displaced people, Oleg & team have also received and distributed medical supplies to civilians and soldiers in “hot spots.”
Thank you for your part in making these good things possible. I am so grateful for your kindness and your response to cries for help!
Last week, there was a missile strike just 60 kilometers from where they are, so please continue to pray for pastors Oleg and Volodya and their families in Lviv, Ukraine, along with all impacted by the war.
I’m attaching a newsletter that Oleg and Yulia (his wife) sent out during Holy Week (early/mid April). It includes pictures of them and others in Ukraine.
At the request of several Ukrainians in Krakow, I encourage you to (continue to?) join me in regularly contacting your Senators and Representatives to advocate for robust support for Ukraine, including air cover, at least for humanitarian corridors, and to encourage the welcoming of refugees in our communities.
Thank you again for your big hearts and for your prayers.
Praying for peace & justice,
Sarah
Please see the Newsletter from Rev. Oleg HERE