Living Out Good News
Words Jess Bee
When Russia declared war on Ukraine on 24 February 2022, cities, houses, and lives embarked on a new reality, shaped by the conflict. While many people fled to other countries, others have stayed, fighting and surviving in dire circumstances. In the midst of the turmoil, one Lifewords partner is on the ground bringing practical and spiritual support to many. When war broke out Hope Lebedyn’s mission to serve those in severe need became even more vital. For over 20 years, this churchled charity has been sharing the love of Jesus and living out good news to the people of the Ukrainian town with which it shares its name. Lebedyn is situated in the oblast of
Sumy in the east of Ukraine, about 100 kilometres from the Russian border. Before the war started, 85% of those eligible to work were unemployed and the town was experiencing extreme poverty and high levels of crime. The conflict with Russia has made the situation deteriorate further.
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