Josiah Venture UK – Anniversary of the Russian Federation’s Invasion of Ukraine

Dear Friend

Today marks the anniversary of the Russian Federation’s invasion of Ukraine.

You generously joined us in enabling our Ukrainian team and the church in Ukraine to respond to the crisis that ensued.

“I am amazed at the global church and how  JV teams in other countries put some of their ministries on pause to serve Ukrainians. We understand that not all Ukrainians are nice people, and some who behaved poorly or were stressed created problems – but they loved them, opened their homes to them, and helped them. I am so thankful.” -Yulia Pasichna (JV Ukraine team)

Since the beginning of the war, thanks to your generosity, we were able to transport 5,500 people to safety, purchase and deliver 850 tons of food and medical supplies, and provide 2.2 million meals to displaced people. 3,200 Ukrainians received temporary housing and placement in the EU, and 12,500 nights of housing were provided in Ukraine.

During the summer, we partnered with local churches to initiate 153 outreach camps and events for young people in Ukraine and 12 surrounding countries. Over 7,000 people were reached in these events, and many lives were changed. We ran 6 trauma retreats for 800 key Ukrainian leaders, and trained more than 800 Ukrainian leaders.

“One thing I have realized about this last year is that grief, trauma, and loss are universal experiences. Not everyone has experienced living through a war, but many people have or will experience grief, trauma, and loss.  If you know someone experiencing this war or any type of grief and loss, let them know you are thinking of them, you are praying for them, and be present with them in their life. Recognizing someone experiencing deep pain helps them to be seen – and that is helpful and loving and healing.” – Katie Humerian (JV Ukraine team)

Recently, Russia has intensified the missile strikes on civilian and electrical infrastructure; please continue to pray for our team and the millions of Ukrainians who expect a cold and difficult winter. Our team continue to serve Ukraine’s spiritual and humanitarian needs, providing food, generators, fuel and blankets.

You can read the reflections of Kristy Williams, JV Ukraine team leader here:

https://www.josiahventure.org.uk/blog/one-year-of-war

Join us in continuing to pray for peace in Ukraine and that Ukrainian young people will be messengers of hope.

You can find lots of prayer fuel in our prayer room here:

https://pray.josiahventure.com/answered-prayersW

We are deeply thankful for the way you have invested the Josiah Venture team and the church in Ukraine.  Thank you so much for your partnership in this amazing work of God.

In Jesus

Josiah Venture UK

Josiah Venture UK is a Scottish Charitable Incorporated Organisation No SC046846