Serving Christ in Word and Mercy:

LCC’s Support for Ministry in Ukraine

“And He sent them out to proclaim the kingdom of God and to heal.” —Luke 9:2

In faithful partnership with the Synod of Evangelical Lutheran Churches in Ukraine (SELCU), Lutheran Church–Canada (LCC) continues to support Gospel ministry and works of mercy in communities deeply affected by war, displacement, and hardship. Despite ongoing challenges, the light of Christ shines in villages and towns where God’s Word is proclaimed, the sacraments are administered, and the love of Christ is made visible in acts of compassion. Two areas of active mission and ministry support are the village of Zoria and the Bashtanka region.

Proclaiming the Word in Zoria

About 70 kilometers from the city of Dnipro lies the rural village of Zoria. Though small and often overlooked, it has become a place of vibrant ministry through the faithful work of Rev. Sergey Bevz and members of his congregation in Dnipro. With support from Lutheran Church–Canada and through the generosity of Canadian donors, Rev. Bevz regularly travels to Zoria to lead Bible studies, organize youth gatherings, and offer pastoral care and encouragement to families and educators in the local school.

These visits are more than routine—they are a lifeline of hope. In a time when many villages face isolation and instability, the Gospel comes with open arms and a faithful voice. Rev. Bevz not only provides pastoral care, but also distributes humanitarian aid to those suffering from economic disruption and loss. The ministry in Zoria is a model of holistic mission work: Word and mercy, truth and love, soul and body.

Ministry in the Bashtanka Region

Further south, in the Bashtanka region of Ukraine, SELCU has maintained a long-standing mission presence supported by LCC. This region includes two congregations—Bogomazy and Zeleny Yar—as well as two emerging mission sites in Andreevka and Shevchenkove. Despite difficult conditions, faithful pastors and laypeople in these communities continue to boldly share the Life-giving Gospel of Christ Jesus.

Their ministry includes preaching and teaching, but also providing vital works of mercy. During times of conflict and crisis, these congregations have become places of refuge and support for their neighbours—offering food, care, and Christian hope. LCC’s support has helped sustain this important ministry, enabling pastors to travel between villages, provide pastoral care, and respond to the needs of those burdened by uncertainty.

United in Christ

Lutheran Church–Canada remains committed to walking alongside our Ukrainian brothers and sisters in Christ. Through ongoing mission support, pastoral partnership, and collaborative works of mercy, we bear witness to the unity of the Church across continents and borders. As one Body, we rejoice that Christ is at work even in the midst of hardship, gathering His flock, strengthening the faithful, and calling the weary to rest in Him.

Your prayers and support for these ministries make a real and eternal difference. In Zoria, in Bashtanka, and in every place the Gospel is preached, God is building and strengthening His Church.

“Thanks be to God, who in Christ always leads us in triumphal procession, and through us spreads the fragrance of the knowledge of Him everywhere.” —2 Corinthians 2:14

Support LCC Missions

• Pray for us | Remember the Synod of Evangelical Lutheran Churches in Ukraine in your prayers.
• Spread the word | Tell someone about LCC Missions in Ukraine.
• Support financially | Support LCC Missions financially via the button below.

Give Now