With tensions rising between Ukraine and Russia, citizens are turning to prayer for solace.
Thousands of Russians held demonstrations in Donetsk, Kharkiv and Luhansk over the April 4-6 weekend calling for annexation. In Donetsk, the crowd seized the Ukrainian flag from the administrative center and put a Russian flag in its place reports the Baptist Press.
In the midst of the chaos, Christians have gathered to pray for their country. Every morning, 200 people gather in the Freedom Square in Kharkiv. The group, including Baptists, Pentecostals, and Orthodox come together uniting in their hope for God’s intervention in the crisis.
A spokesperson for the International Mission Board (IMB) said, “It’s really amazing. You and old, fathers bringing their children, rain or snow--everybody is on their knees.”
Throughout the political turmoil, Ukrainian churches have remained open for citizens to enter and pray any time.
Volunteers from the United States will soon be arriving in Ukraine to assist the IMB with their mission work, despite the crisis.
“Why would I leave when God is at work? This is exactly where I should be,” the spokesperson said.