Holidays Take On a Special Meaning in Ukraine
Holidays have taken on a special meaning in Ukraine since the beginning of the war, and Thanksgiving – not typically celebrated in Europe – is no different.
This year, the Awana Ukraine team there celebrated Thanksgiving to praise God for how He has taken care of them throughout the year and throughout their 30 years of ministry to kids and youth in the country. The pictures shown are of them coming together for fellowship, training and a special Thanksgiving meal.
Above: Incredibly, the team was able to find a very large turkey! Right: Celebrating 30 years of ministry in Ukraine
Tom Chilton, Awana global vice president Europe/North Asia & MENA, was able to join them via online conferencing. It was the first time the Ukraine team was able to physically gather together in four years (since before COVID-19 and the 2022 invasion)! That is indeed something to be thankful for.
The Awana Ukraine team will be celebrating Christmas with small gatherings and personal time of reflection. As you reflect on this Advent season and the birth of Jesus, please pray for our teams in Ukraine and around the world who minister to hurting families by sharing the love of Christ with them and by meeting their tangible needs. It is because of Christ’s great love for us that He came to our sinful world, humbling Himself by becoming a baby and then dying on a cross. Praise be to God that through the atoning sacrifice of Jesus we can have eternal life with Him in heaven. That is good news for all the nations!
Left: Tom Chilton joins the festivities from the U.S.
Says Tom, “We often recite 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 around Thanksgiving, but this year the phrase ‘in all circumstances’ has taken on added significance for me. Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.”
If you would like to give financially, please click the link below. On behalf of our Ukraine team, we thank you for your continued prayers and support. Merry Christmas
Above: The Awana Ukraine team (minus a few spouses) is finally together.
The Awana Editorial team is a group of people passionate about child discipleship and the equipping of leaders for the advancement of the kingdom. We have a breadth of experience in children’s ministry, and our heart beats with the stories of what God is doing around the world. We have an affinity for salty snacks and the occasional sweet treat, and we believe that everything is better with a good cup of coffee!
