Dear Pastors and Friends,

Despite the death, destruction, and other horrors resulting from Russia’s invasion and continuous attacks on Ukraine, the Lord still gives us causes for encouragement. One ministry that encourages us is the Kyiv Theological Seminary, which recently held its winter session. Although the realities of war have prevented some students from attending and compelled others to leave Ukraine as refugees, 32 students still came to grow in their knowledge of God’s Word and to become more effective servants of the Lord.

At such a time in Ukraine’s history, no one would blame these young people if they had decided to stay home rather than pursue their theological training in the nation’s capital. (The women in the Seminary study to become knowledgeable Sunday school teachers, accomplished musicians, or choir directors.) After all, deadly missile and drone attacks on the capital continue to happen. And yet, these young people are committing their lives to the Lord and continuing to come when it would be easier to stay home. Praise God! Who knows, perhaps this current testing of their mettle will play its own role in developing these young believers for future ministry.

For our February video, while in Kyiv I asked Seminary Rector Vitaly Yurchenko to show us the students’ living quarters and to share about some of their backgrounds. To view this brief (4.5 minutes) video, please click the link below:

https://vimeo.com/user37287229/seminary

Thank you for your prayers!

Blessings to you!

Sam & Amy Slobodian