On August 18, 2024, a baptism took place in the village of Vilkhivtsi, where four young individuals made the life-changing decision to enter into a covenant with God through baptism. Surrounded by the love and support of their church community and family, these young believers took this important step of faith, committing their lives to follow Christ.
We pray that God richly blesses their decision and continues to guide them on this spiritual journey, strengthening their relationship with Him every day. May their walk with God be filled with His grace, love, and steadfastness.
The brethren in Romania are actively supporting victims of recent floods in Galați and Vaslui counties. Although not directly affected, volunteers have cleaned homes, distributed essentials, and provided hot meals.
Galați, Romania—In the wake of the devastating floods that struck Galați and Vaslui counties on September 13-14, 2024, our church community has been working tirelessly to support those affected. We praise the Lord for His care and protection, as our congregation and churches were spared the direct impact of the floods. Still, the local Welfare Department, Asociația Salvăm Refacem Ajutăm (We Save, We Restore, We Help), has played an active role in providing relief to the devastated communities.
The brethren mobilized two volunteer teams to help residents of Cudalbi and Costache Negri, two of the hardest-hit towns in Galați county. These teams consisted of fifteen and twelve volunteers respectively. In addition to their own efforts, the use of a mini-excavator was donated by a member of each team to aid in cleaning out homes and clearing flood-damaged yards.
Volunteers also distributed essential food, hygiene products, and cleaning supplies. Hot meals were prepared by the neighboring church members and handed out to those in need. ASRA’s teams helped evacuate floodwater from the premises of the Cultural House in Costache Negri, where a community center is being established to provide aid and temporary shelter for those rendered homeless by the flood.
Despite the magnitude of the disaster, our brethren find joy and fulfillment in their efforts, following Christ’s example of alleviating suffering. In conversations with local residents, they also share comfort from the Word of God.
In the days following the initial response, efforts expanded, as more volunteer teams reached out to support other towns, including Pechea, Cuza Vodă, and Slobozia Conachi. Over 200 homes were visited, and residents received supplies such as blankets, pillows, clothing, cleaning products, and cooking appliances. In addition, the brethren encouraged residents to place their trust in God during this difficult time.
The road to recovery is long, and the brethren continue to plan ongoing support. Volunteer teams are being organized to assist families in rebuilding their homes, restoring minimum living conditions, and ensuring that no one is left behind. They are committed to identifying the most vulnerable families as they prepare for the challenges of the coming seasons.
Thank you to all who have prayed for this mission and donated to this critical humanitarian effort. It is through this collective spirit of compassion that the church can continue to serve as God’s hands and feet, working to restore hope and dignity to those affected by the floods.
Tyachiv, Ukraine—By the grace of God, the Help Center in Tyachiv officially opened its doors on September 11, after a special dedication ceremony on September 8. Located at 28 Neresenska St., the center will be open weekdays from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., offering crucial support to the local community.
An initiative of the Ukrainian Union’s Welfare Department, the Help Center provides a safe space for community members to receive essentials, including snacks, hot beverages, phone charging, showers, haircuts, overnight shelter, and access to clothing, shoes, and groceries, depending on availability.
Connected to the center is a chapel where the Tyachiv group holds weekly gatherings, providing not only physical nourishment but spiritual support as well. Tyachiv, a small city in western Ukraine with a population of approximately 8,887, warmly welcomes this new center as a vital addition to the community and a key part of local missionary work.
Although the center is funded by the Welfare Department, it also relies on donations of non-perishable food items, fresh produce, clothing, and bedding in good condition. Its operations are sustained by dedicated volunteers and local ministry workers.
For the local church members, the opening of the Help Center is the fulfillment of a long-held vision. We praise God for this tremendous blessing and pray that the center will continue to serve as a light in this region for many years to come.
