Ukraine is a key state, a spiritual bridge between east and west, Orthodox and Catholic. Kyiv was where Slavic Christianity was born 1,000 years ago. Most Ukrainians are of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church. Many others are of the Greek or Uniate Catholic Church, which follows the Orthodox liturgy and structure but accepts the leadership of the Pope. The Orthodox Church is torn by strife as factions proclaim loyalty to competing patriarchs based in Kyiv and Moscow. The Autocephalous Orthodox Church (until recently banned, and still not formally registered) condemns them both for compliance with the Communists, but is itself beset with schisms. All these groups compete for the reclamation of buildings seized by the Communists. Much superstition and superficiality exist, but there is also a spiritual minority with a love for the Scriptures. Pray that spiritual life and renewal rather than power-politics may govern structures and relationships within these large bodies.

The aftermaths of both independence and the Chernobyl disaster still have tragic impact on Ukrainians. Poverty, rather than riches, has been the outcome of freedom for many. Strict reform measures combined with rampant corruption is only likely to intensify the problem. The vacuum left by Communism’s demise has often been filled with violent crime, breakdown in family structures and sexual immorality. In addition, radiation pollution from Chernobyl still affects huge swathes of the country. The consequent weakening of immune systems, combined with a rapidly spreading AIDS virus could do incalculable damage to an already shrinking population. Pray that amidst the darkness, many would seek the Light.

Ukraine has a strong Christian heritage, but suffering under Communism was severe. Evangelical Christians have emerged stronger and more numerous from 130 years of unrelenting persecution in which millions of Christians were killed. Pray that full freedom of religion for all groups may be enshrined in the constitution, practiced by the state, and fully utilized by believers. Pray that the church might adjust to a new context, and meet its challenges boldly. Among these are:

a) The need for full restoration and reconciliation. The era of Communist persecution is over but the scars of intimidation, manipulation and betrayal are not entirely healed. Orthodox, Catholic and Protestant Churches all face this. Pray for firmness, fairness and forgiveness in handling all who compromised. Pray that those who did not bend might now demonstrate flexibility in church structure, and in enabling congregations to be outward looking rather than insular.

b) Lack of unity. Communist subterfuge brought division and chaos between registered and unregistered congregations of nearly all denominations. Since 1990, disputes have come into the open. These issues have been recognized by Ukrainian Christians and are being addressed. Pray for removal of prejudice, mistrust, personality clashes, and structures that prevent fellowship and promote competition - especially in tapping Western funds and aid.

c) The lack of resources for maximizing the present harvest. Most evangelical denominations are growing rapidly, hampered only by an inability to erect buildings and train leaders. Due to the economic situation church buildings, discipleship materials, disciplers and basic equipment are in short supply. Pray that the kingdom of God’s growth would not be stunted by simple financial needs.

d) Religious freedom is somewhat threatened by the entrenched religious hierarchy and by government actions taken to limit the expansion of cults and sects. Registering churches or missions can be a very difficult and delicate process. Pray for wisdom and the right combination of discretion and boldness on the part of Christian workers.

Good, spiritual, theological training is a great need. Many have benefited from theological education since 1989, but with many more churches beginning or waiting for pastors, the need is as urgent as ever. Thousands of students have been trained in dozens of seminaries, Bible schools and institutes. Over 10,000 have taken the Life in Christ Correspondence Course. Resources are the greatest challenge to Christian educators - the lack of trained teachers is overshadowed by the lack of textbooks, facilities and funding for the students themselves. Western agencies are proving invaluable in this area, particularly SGA, but also Calvary Chapel Mission to the Ukraine, GEM and Baptist and Pentecostal groups. Pray for wise, helpful co-labouring with expatriate partners to raise up many trained Christian leaders for Ukraine and all the former USSR. Pray also for openings and support in ministry for those who graduate.