Christians Tortured, Killed in Ukraine and Russia

In the midst of war and persecution, hearts hungry for hope are turning to Jesus.

Release International reports that in areas of Russian-occupied Ukraine, churches have been forcibly closed, and several Christian leaders openly praying for Ukraine have disappeared or faced abduction, torture and death. In Russia, priests have been arrested, imprisoned or otherwise silenced for opposing the invasion.

Despite such persecution, a hunger for the gospel has arisen. Recent reports speak of churches packed with people and hundreds turning to Jesus.

After Pastor Alexander Salfetnikov was tortured in Russian-occupied territory, he and his wife, along with most of their congregation, fled to an area under Ukrainian control and established a new church. Most of the more than 300 people who attend are unbelievers seeking Christ and coming to faith by the dozens both there and in surrounding villages. Another church in Kherson is filled to overflowing, with people standing outside.

In addition, a noted dissident who was imprisoned for his opposition of Putin, Alexei Navalny, confessed his conversion from militant atheist to a believer in Christ while in prison.

(Read the full story here.)

Lord, we ask You for a shield of protection around every Christian in Russia, Ukraine, and Russian-occupied areas. Embolden them to love. Strengthen them to stand. Equip them with all they need to share Your good news and bring thousands to faith. Thank You, Lord, for the hunger for hope that has grown in the hearts of so many lost — hope that can only be found in Jesus. As they seek You, step into their path, show them the way to salvation, let them see Your arms open wide, and invite them into the love, joy and peace that come from salvation through Christ. What You are doing already, please do all the more. Step into army ranks, moving hearts with desire for You. Step into the streets cluttered with debris, and point the way to where Christians are gathered in Bible study and worship. Awaken Ukraine, awaken Russia, awaken every place where people have fled or want to flee. Don’t let even one more person die without hearing the good news about Christ. May this be the year of Ukraine and Russia’s salvation.

Come join our army as we pray for the nations, for persecuted Christians, for their persecutors and for seekers who don’t know how to find Christ.

Mikaela Vincent and her husband are missionaries who live by faith, trusting in God to provide for their needs as they pray for and share Christ with the nations. If you would like to help their ministry through a donation, or by finding gifts for those you love at Mikaela’s online bookstore, click the buttons below:

For Out You Go, Fear! and other resources on overcoming adversity and breaking free from fear and trauma, visit MoreThanAConquerorBooks.com.

All proceeds this author receives go to shining light in dark corners of the world. 

When you click on links in this post that take you to Amazon, as a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, I may receive a small commission for certain purchases. 

Thank you for your support! If you have any questions or want to help with this ministry, please contact Mikaela.