Chernihiv (Chernigov) Brethren congregation ministers to neighbors, requests prayer

The following is an update from the Chernihiv (Chernigov) Brethren in Ukraine and their pastor Alex Zazhytko and his family, provided by Keith Funk, pastor of Quinter (Kan.) Church of the Brethren. Funk has been a key Church of the Brethren contact for the Chernihiv (Chernigov) Brethren. Chernihv is a regional capital in Ukraine 90 miles north of Kyiv and 55 miles from the Russian border. Russian forces attacked it for a month ending in April 2022, killing hundreds of people and reducing many structures to rubble.

“There is wonderful, as well as concerning, news to share.

“The congregation is meeting and, with Pastor Alex’s leadership, and with generous donations, are ministering to their neighbors with the message of the gospel and while sharing food and groceries. At a recent Sunday meeting, over 250 people came to worship and received the message of God’s love in Jesus Christ.  Food was distributed to those in attendance. In addition, there has been food distribution during the week, as Pastor Alex, family members, and fellow Christians have been sharing with their neighbors and the citizens of Chernihiv. God’s Spirit is moving in the among his people, and lives are being touched as a result.

“As of today, August 23, Ukraine is on high alert for rocket attacks.  August 23 and 24, are flag day and Independence Day respectively for Ukraine. Alex reports that the Russians may be preparing to respond to these national observances through these rocket attacks. Certain cities are preparing for these attacks, and Chernihiv is one of those cities. Please pray the Ukrainian people in light of this deeply concerning news.”

— Keith Funk is pastor of Quinter (Kan.) Church of the Brethren.

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