Emmanuel Missions
With the fall of communism in 1991, a great door for the gospel opened in Ukraine. However, it was estimated that 70% of pastors and evangelical leaders in Ukraine did not have any theological education. L’viv Theological Seminary (LTS) therefore committed to equipping Christian men and women for ministry. Since the war, however, LTS has had to make many adjustments. They have lost 50% of their students many of which are either soldiers or refugees, 30% of their equipment and facilities, satellite branches in other cities have been occupied and staff killed or imprisoned. The main school has helped over 6500 refugees in the past year. In September 2023 they restarted their programs but the number of students and branches are smaller because of the war. Please continue to pray for and support L’viv Theological Seminary in these difficult times.
Update
GRADUATION: Despite all the difficulties of the war, we successfully finished the spring semester. This year 35 brand-new church ministers received their diplomas and were released to do the work of the gospel. A memorable graduation ceremony took place,marking the culmination of years of hard work and dedication for our graduates.Local ministers bestowed their blessings upon these young people as they prepared to embark on their respective journeys of ministry. The graduation ceremony at LTS is a significant milestone in the lives of these students
We pray their education and skills will be a blessing to them and the communities they serve, making a positive impact in the world.
MISSION TRIPS: As part of our theological studies students are sent on 3 week mission trips to do practical evangelism and help local missionaries to spread the gospel. Like never before the Ukrainian people need to hear the Gospel news and gain peace in their hearts. The students were actively engaged in assisting local churches in their outreach efforts particularly with refugees, children and youth with summer camps and Christmas programs including gifts to orphanages. We pray that the seeds sown during these missions trips bear fruit in the future as the church continues to grow.
TENT MAKING: In addition to theological studies, 10 students have finished their hairdressing courses. They successfully acquired the necessary skills annd knowledge to become professional hairdressers. This additional training will enable them to not only support themselves but also to contribute to their ministries. Through their testimonies some graduates have established churches or other ministries.
REFUGEES: Because of the war LTS is very involved in helping the refugees that pass through... some for several nights only, some on a more permanent basis. Although it is hard for us, we cannot stand aside while so many people suffer. We cook many meals, some we feed on campus and some we distribute as food packages into the neighbourhood. Since the war started we have helped over 7000 refugees,1000 refugee children and 3000 food packages.
GRATITUDE: There are no words good enough to express our gratitude to the Lord and to you, dear church for being our partners in this ministry and keeping our hands lifted in such a difficult time. Your commitment is inspiring. Your help changes lives, and your prayers keep us encouraged in serving the Lord and His people- both our students and refugees.
Many Blessings
LTS
