"You are not alone in the warfare against wrong. Could the curtain be rolled back, you would see heavenly angels fighting with you." —The Youth’s Instructor, January 1, 1903.
Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,
Since our United in Prayer Sabbath held in May on behalf of our brethren in Ukraine, we have received heartfelt concern and support from our global family regarding the ongoing situation.
As the conflict between nations continues, the challenges to religious freedom and the potential for enforced mandatory drafts remain pressing concerns. The longer the war persists, the greater the possibility that our brethren may face compulsory military service.
Since May, the Reform Movement has been united in prayer for our brethren's protection and for the Lord to grant them peace and wisdom during these trying times. To date, Brother Oleg is the only one taken to a military camp, and despite appeals from the Ukrainian Union and the General Conference headquarters, he has not been permitted to leave. We have been able to maintain contact with him and his family, and the local brethren have visited him to encourage and uplift his spirits. Remarkably, he has been a source of encouragement to other Adventist men in the military camp, and they have been allowed to worship together on Sabbaths.
All males aged 18 and older are required to report to military camps for service. Our brethren have presented letters from the Ukrainian Union and the General Conference, explaining our stance on military service and highlighting their ongoing mission as civilians to bring hope and practical assistance to the nation through the Angel's Hand welfare project, which has been more active than ever during the war. However, it is uncertain how long these letters will be accepted by the military authorities. Brother Oleg's experience demonstrates that acceptance is at the discretion of the military personnel.
Amidst the backdrop of war and its challenges, our brethren continue to meet every Sabbath, host spiritual conferences, youth camps, and strengthen their faith and fellowship.
This week, Brother Rolly Dumaguit, the General Conference Vice President, and Brother Petru Mangul, GC Second Vice President, are visiting Ukraine for a workers' seminar and spiritual conferences aimed at providing encouragement and spiritual refreshment. This visit will include discussions on current affairs and a general check-in on the well-being of our brethren and whether more assistance can be offered.
We thank the Lord for His mercies and His continued sustaining grace during the crises facing His people around the world. We are also deeply grateful to our church family worldwide for their prayers and support.
Furthermore, we appeal to every member to reflect on their individual spiritual condition, as turbulent times await us all, both individually and collectively. Let us draw near to the Lord, so we may fulfill His calling and be ready to go with Him to a better place.
"We must no longer remain upon the enchanted ground. We are fast approaching the close of our probation. Let every soul inquire, How do I stand before God? We know not how soon our names may be taken into the lips of Christ, and our cases be finally decided. What, oh, what will these decisions be! Shall we be counted with the righteous, or shall we be numbered with the wicked?" TR 13
Yours in the Blessed Hope,
Eli Tenorio
GC President
