The Situation:
On Feb. 24, 2022, Russian forces invaded Ukraine, launching land, sea and air attacks. Russia has launched air strikes across the country, including on the capital of Kyiv and other major cities. Millions of people fleeing the violence of Russia’s war against Ukraine and are moving toward Ukraine’s western districts and such neighboring countries as Poland, Moldova, Slovakia, Romania and Hungary. There are major humanitarian concerns for both internally displaced people and refugees. Many of these Ukrainians fleeing their homes need shelter and such basic necessities as food, water and toiletries. Care for people also includes pastoral and psychological support to address the trauma they’ve endured.
Our Response:
Lutheran Disaster Response is accompanying our companions in Ukraine, Hungary, Poland, Romania, Slovakia, Moldova, Lithuania and the Czech Republic, as well as such ecumenical partners as this Lutheran World Federation and Church World Service, in their humanitarian responses to the crisis created by Russia’s war against Ukraine. These partners provide refugees with immediate and long-term support. Presiding Bishop Elizabeth Eaton has joined other religious leaders from Europe and around the globe in issuing an interfaith call for peace in the region.
What you can do:
Pray:
Please pray for those in Ukraine, Russia and neighboring countries that have been affected by the war in Ukraine. May God's healing presence give them peace and hope in their time of need.
Give:
Your gifts designated for “Eastern Europe Crisis Response” will be used entirely (100%) to provide support for people impacted by conflict in the region.
Connect:
To learn more about the situation and the ELCA’s response:
- Read the one-year anniversary report.
- Share this bulletin insert with your congregation and encourage support.
- Download this worship resource for use in your congregation.
- Sign up to receive Lutheran Disaster Response alerts.
- Check the Lutheran Disaster Response blog.
- "Like" Lutheran Disaster Response on Facebook, follow @ELCALDR on Twitter and follow @ELCA_LDR on Instagram.
