War leaves its mark
Over 10 million Ukrainians have had to leave their homes during the Russian invasion, heading west. War has a lasting effect on a person’s soul. According to WHO (World Health Organization), about a quarter of the population has experienced some kind of psychological trauma.
In peacetime societies, an average of 5 to 6 percent of the population is affected by psychological traumas. In Ukraine, it is expected that this figure will reach 25 percent of the population, and will last three generations.
Peace of mind is shaken
“The sound of continuous air raid sirens causes a lot of stress. There is a constant fear of another attack. Anxiety, panic attacks, depression, and insomnia have become the norm. Psychological consequences of war are long-term and last at least 35-40 years,” says Soloviva a military psychologist.
Everything that happens, is passed from one generation to the next.
“The Journey Home” evangelism book for victims of war
GCMM produced literature at the beginning of the war that supports spiritual well-being in both Ukrainian and Russian languages. The content of the 160-page book, called The Journey Home, has been tailored to a country affected by war. The book includes a number to call for counselling and other assistance services. 250,000 Journey Home books have been distributed in the war zone areas with the help of 400 chaplains GCMM works with in bringing the Gospel to the frontlines.
Healing for Millions Suffering from PTSD
When the Ukrainian government and the Ministry of Health realized there wasn’t enough professional psychiatric care to help their countrymen traumatized by war in the country, they requested written material to help amid the crisis.
We responded.
GCMM has written a second book designed to address PTSD and psychological drama — offering hope, restoration, and healing to those deeply affected by the war from a biblical perspective in battling trauma, depression, and the emotional scars of war.
Addressing PTSD for Ukraine’s citizens remains one of Ukraine’s greatest needs, and we are committed to helping restore this wounded nation.
The need is immense. Preparations for printing and distribution are in motion, with implementation depending on donations. The first copies may be distributed as early as spring.
Supernatural level of hunger for the Gospel of Christ
God is moving in the hearts of the people of Ukraine. Some are crying out for healing. Others desire eternal security in the face of war.
Churches all over the nation are reporting overwhelming attendance from those who have never stepped into a church before. One church in Kherson has reported weekly baptism services on Sunday evenings.
“Before the beginning of the war, 3-4 new people would be seen in our service…now we have hundreds of new people each week! This is a time of revival, one which we have never seen before.” – Pastor Sergey, Kherson
The mission of The Church continues regardless of the war
Building a church in the middle of war in Kyiv, has been no small feat. Pastor Juri shares: “We started building this new church in 2021. After the Russian invasion, the church builders left for the front to defend our country. Before the war, about 1,500 people attended services. Attendance dwindled as Russia made inroads into Ukraine, and most left in fear of Kyiv being occupied by the Russian army. Attendance has since increased to 3,500 and is growing. We outgrew our previous building, with three back-to-back services on Sunday not being enough.
Our 30th church anniversary held the first service in the new building under construction. An important role for our congregation is continuing to be a support to chaplains on the frontlines. Devotions, prayer times and being able to participate in communion are important to the soldiers. GCMM’s evangelism books continue to be delivered to frontline villagers and soldiers.”
Will you send the gift of the Gospel to the frontline today?