“Bear one another’s burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ.” – Galatians 6:2
We are fast approaching the four year mark since the war in Ukraine began. Yet for our sister churches and their shepherds, February 24th marks more than a point in history. Why? Because their suffering is not historical—it is daily, ongoing, and deeply personal. Our faithful brothers and sisters need help, now more than ever. With soaring fuel prices and widespread electricity blackouts, our brothers and sisters are enduring the most difficult winter of their lives.
As a family of churches, we believe Scripture is clear: when one member of the body suffers, the rest do not look away (1 Corinthians 12:26). We draw near. We pray. We give. We bear burdens together, fulfilling the law of Christ (Galatians 6:2).
Ukraine Relief Campaign
The week of February 22nd to March 1st, the European Missions Society is hosting a campaign to get our family of churches informed about the crisis in Ukraine. We will share daily stories and prayer requests from Ukrainian disciples as we encourage those who feel so moved to give towards the need.
A call to prayer and fasting on February 24th
On February 24th, the fourth anniversary of the war, we are calling our entire family of churches to a day of focused prayer and fasting for Ukraine. We ask you to set aside time to intercede for:
- Peace; a sustainable peace
- Families carrying grief, displacement, and uncertainty
- Faithful elders, ministers, and church staff persevering under prolonged strain
- The spiritual resilience of the churches and the advance of the gospel in dark days
- Healing for many in Ukraine who are turning to substances amid trauma and despair
A call to financial giving on March 1st
Following this day of prayer, we are calling for a day of giving on March 1st, with a collective goal of $250,000, to be directed entirely toward trusted, existing ministry efforts in Ukraine. Please do not neglect your regular support for your local church or your support for your special missions partners. They have important budgets that depend on you. If you can also help us bear this burden, then please give generously.
These funds will support three urgent priorities:
- Sustaining faithful shepherds
Providing financial support for current ministers, pastors, and church staff who remain at their posts, caring for their people and proclaiming Christ under extraordinary pressure. - Training the next generation of ministers
Establishing and strengthening training pathways for younger leaders—men and women who will carry hope into the future and ensure that the church in Ukraine not only survives, but endures and grows. - Meeting humanitarian and recovery needs
Supporting critical humanitarian efforts, including the support of a recovery center for those battling addiction, a growing crisis intensified by war, trauma, and displacement.
You can find more information, links to give, and stories from Ukrainians by following the links below.
Why this matters
This appeal is not driven by urgency alone, but by conviction. God is at work in Ukraine, especially now. The local church remains one of the clearest witnesses of hope, stability, and gospel light. When we strengthen these churches, we strengthen the very means God is using to bring healing and redemption.
We are not sending help into the unknown. We are standing with brothers and sisters we know, trust, and love. May the Lord find us faithful; quick to pray, generous to give, and steadfast in love.
With gratitude for your partnership in the gospel,
Edward Anton
Executive Director, European Missions Society
Chairman, ICOC Global Missions Service Team
