Ira, this year marks MTU’s 22nd year of ministry. The abortion rate has dropped since 1997.  There have been some major improvements in the fight for the rights of people with disabilities in Ukraine. Is life valued more in Ukraine today? 

 Indeed, we praise God that abortion rates have dropped in the last few years. Yet at the same time, sadly, Ukraine continues to have one of the highest percentage of abortions per capita in Europe. We have a big call from the Lord to fight for thousands of innocent lives right here in our neck of the woods!

 As for the rights of children with disabilities, we see a lot of positive changes like inclusive education and the development of rehabilitation services in Ukraine. In Zhitomir we are seeing mothers become advocates for their children, initiating dialog with city authorities for better access in public schools and other public places. We are most excited to see local churches opening their doors to people with disabilities – not just in terms of physical access, but more importantly with their hearts!  It is unique to see the city administration supporting MTU initiatives, but also numerous other good causes adding value to the lives of people with disabilities.  We celebrate these changes.

 Nevertheless, due to the war and economic crisis, the people we serve (women with unplanned pregnancies and families with children with disabilities) remain the most vulnerable in our society – perhaps more so than before. They face hunger, lack professional healthcare services, live in pain, and experience a growing societal stigma.

 What do you see God doing through Mission to Ukraine’s ministry at this time?

 It is a privilege to see how God continues to expand His Kingdom through this ministry. MTU’s professional services open doors to testify to the love of God, and this year, through camps alone, over 50 people made critical spiritual decisions – many receiving Jesus Christ as their Savior and Lord!

God is giving our team a unique and somewhat audacious opportunity to build a much needed new facility for MTU. It will allow us not only to continue modeling God’s standards in caring for women and children, but to impact the whole country with the light of Jesus. We hope to see the MTU model duplicates throughout the entire country!  This new facility will enable us to train and empower Churches and professional teams from other cities and spread influence to other parts of Ukraine.

 I’d love to tell you more about this initiative  – and plan to do so in the coming months!

 We have only been able to accomplish these things by the guidance and power of God. And He has chosen to accomplish these things through you!   With your prayers and financial support – all of this has come to fruition.  Thank you for being a part of these past 22 years with us !

In 22 Years of Ministry