Summer 2019 Newsletter
Delivering food packages
“Yes, it gets ‘zharko’ (hot)!” in Ukraine during the summer. We are so grateful for Magen Israel congregation in Kyiv who worked diligently to distribute food packages to needy Jewish families even when it’s very hot inside and outside. Pastor Leonid K. (upper right) and his wife Natasha (upper left photo) have served their Jewish people as ministers for over 20 years in Russia and Ukraine, eventually planting two Messianic Jewish congregations in Kyiv. Your generous donations have been most appreciated by these Jewish families we serve. Ministry likewise has gone on in Odessa, with New Jerusalem congregation immersing four women in the Black Sea, who obeyed the Lord Jesus (Yeshua) in baptism! The three Odessa area Messianic Jewish congregations have faithfully been carrying on by evangelizing, discipling, and serving in their city. Pastor Leonid V. and his wife, Olga, have been serving there about 25 years, planting three congregations.
Ministry at work
Tuesday, September 24th - the journey again to Ukraine begins, returning stateside October 22nd . It will be so opportune because these Jewish communities will be entering into Feast of Trumpets, Day of Atonement, and Feast of Booths. These biblical holidays are so enlightening once interpreted in light of Jesus coming as Messiah! It affords us to share the good news with even more insight when approach Jewish people during our food distributions / visits and outreaches. Pray for such openness that more Jewish people will come to faith in Yeshua (Jesus) as Messiah. New visitors during these upcoming holy days. Please pray for me, my Uncle Ron S. (accompanying me, paying his own expenses), and the pastors in each of the six congregations in Kyiv, Odessa, and Zaporozhe (SE Ukraine). Please pray for a strong anointing and sensitivity to the Holy Spirit in our lives as we interact with Jewish believers and non-believers, including Slavic non-believers. Each interaction needs to be met with obedience and Spirit-led responses.
Pray for Israeli pastors & congregations
Pastor Roman and his oldest son (who has just recently entered Israeli army) are pictured on the upper right. Messiah’s Comassion is partnering with them to assist them their various ministries. Their congregation, Fruit of the Vine meets in near north central Israel in an business park auditorium for services and children’s ministries. They have services in Russian language for adults and in Hebrew for youth. The LORD has opened the door for them to do compassion aid in the city of Hadera with volunteers from their congregation. New Israeli immigrants or needy individuals may select good used clothing and receive a food package. Additionally, Pastor Roman operates a drug rehab center for men recovering from addictions, and leads them into intensive discipleship. Many of these men’s lives are being transformed!
Intercede for Israel and her security
In recent weeks the Israelis have experienced rocket and missile attacks both in southern and northern regions. Not only have these threats manifested, but car-ramming attacks and an explosive device injured some and claiming the lives of young Israelis. These tragedies happen way too frequently! Pray for those families now grieving the loss of their dear loved ones. Pray for the government leaders to discern unique godly wisdom on how to curb these attacks prior to them taking place. Many planned terrorist attacks are thwarted by military intelligence; the loss of lives would be much higher if these methods were not being implemented.
Jewish arts project group
“I will bless those who bless you and curse
those who treat you with contempt. All the families on earth will be blessed through
you.”
In SE Ukraine, Pastor Sasha’s wife, Oksana, is an art instructor for a small group of special needs Jewish youth group with their mothers and volunteers. In the photo on the far right you can see one of the young lady’s hand embroidery work. Messiah’s Compassion has helped them purchase art materials, and likewise enables Oksana to demonstrate Messiah’s love and share her talent with Jewish families with special needs youth. Pray for open discussions for Oksana to share about Yeshua (Jesus).
