Lviv, Ukraine

The Lord is good, a strong hold in the day of trouble; and He knoweth them that trust in Him. Nahum 1:7 We are amazed that we are already half way through 2016 and are very grateful to the Lord for His unfailing Love, Grace and Guidance.

The situation in the east of Ukraine and the war with Russia is "strangely quiet" but we know that the enemy is still "entrenched" in Ukrainian territory. We pray the time will come when they will withdraw and give us back our land. However, this must be according to the will of God.

In April we visited Birkii orphanage for the first time where we were given a tour of the well-kept buildings, grounds and bedrooms, by the director, Natalia. We were a little surprised when she offered to bring the children into the canteen with 12 teachers and gave us 25 minutes to introduce ourselves and preach the Gospel (John 3 v 16). At the end everyone received a Bible - please pray for all who heard the Word and that they will read the Scriptures of Truth.

Regularly we visit an orphanage at Mostaska, 10 miles from the Polish border where there is also a large school. We were delighted to get an invitation to share the Gospel with the children having been referred by the director of the orphanage. We had two meetings, one with younger pupils and one with older pupils and teachers. The interest by all at someone speaking English with a N. Ireland accent was amazing, and when preaching by interpretation and ask a question they want to try and answer in English. Everyone at the end including the teachers received a Gospel text and a bar of chocolate.

We continue the fortnightly children meeting at Sosnevka with an average attendance of 35 children and adults. We always sing together, and I usually speak to the children and present the Gospel simply. Recently I spoke to them about the traffic lights: - Red - Stop and think ...Yellow - Prepare to meet God....Green - Go "Thy faith hath made thee whole go in peace". Then brother Ruslan listens to the children repeat Bible verses they have learned, with more than 75% of children coming to the front and quoting the Word of God from memory. "The entrance of thy words giveth light; it giveth understanding unto the simple".

ITEMS FOR THANKSGIVING AND PRAYER

That brother Volodia from the assembly has made a full recovery after a serious accident at work.
That Olya (Ruslan's mother) is back out at the meetings after an illness.
Earnest prayer for Halia as she continues chemotherapy.
Lesia a believer confined to a wheel chair and her apartment, also her husband Stepan not saved.
Lviv assembly - protection from the attacks of Satan.

We never cease to give God thanks for your continued support in so many different ways, especially your prayers which cannot be measured. And whatsoever ye do, do it heartily as to the Lord, and not unto men. Col 3:23

Summer 2016

Written by Edmund & Agnes Johnston - Ukraine

eajohnston@lviv4316.com