This month marks four years of war in Ukraine. The humanitarian crisis it has caused has now evolved into a long-term struggle for the Ukrainian nation to maintain emotional, psychological, and spiritual resilience.
Amidst the increasing number of casualties, prolonged displacement, and widespread trauma, churches have become one of the pillars that remain strong to support millions of people affected by war. The presence and role of the Ukrainian Bible Society, which has worked tirelessly to ensure that Bibles, trauma recovery services, and pastoral care remain accessible to communities across the country.
Anatoliy, one of the field leaders of the Ukrainian Bible Society team in Kyiv, said, "The needs of the people have now shifted. Whereas before the focus was on emergency relief, now the need is to build long-term resilience for individuals, families and entire communities."
Handing Out Bibles to Maintain Hope in the Midst of War
Since the massive Russian invasion began on 24 February 2022, the Ukrainian Bible Society has distributed approximately 1.6 million Bibles, or almost 1,000 copiesevery day.
Entering the fourth year of war, the need for God's Word remains very high. According to official figures announced by the President of Ukraine, by the end of 2025 there will be around 55,000 military personnel killed, although the actual number is believed to be much higher. The figure does not include those wounded, missing or taken prisoner — each representing families living in grief, anxiety and uncertainty.
Today around one million people serve in Ukraine's armed forces, while the number of civilian casualties by 2025 increases by about 70 per cent compared to the previous year. This is causing enormous moral, emotional and spiritual distress to the people.
Each victim is not just a statistic, but an individual who leaves behind a family that must struggle with loss, uncertainty, and heavy emotional burdens.
Anatoliy explained, "All these situations affect the moral, mental and even physical health of people. They need support and consolation. That's why more and more Ukrainians are seeking help from churches of various denominations."
Based on the capacity and experience of the ministry over the past years, by 2026 the Ukrainian Bible Society targets the distribution of 300,000 to 400,000 Bibles and spiritual readings, or approximately 1,000 copies each day.
While the actual need is millions of Bibles and other spiritual literature, the team in Kyiv set an optimal yet realistic goal, within the logistical and funding capabilities available.
Every day, requests for Bibles and spiritual reading continue to come in from adults and children alike, albeit with different needs.
Need for Bibles for Adults and Youth Increases
After almost four years of living in an atmosphere of war, many adults have to deal with prolonged stress, deep sadness, inner wounds, separation from family, as well as the loss of their loved ones. Therefore, the growing demand includes: Complete Bibles, New Testaments, Devotional books, pastoral materials designed to help with trauma recovery.
Anatoliy further noted, "The families of the fallen, wounded, missing in action, captured, and those still serving on the battlefield are searching for meaning in life, stability, and hope."
In addition to catering for the spiritual needs of adults, churches also report a growing demand for Bible materials for the younger generation, such as: Illustrated Bibles, Bible story books, and other age-appropriate learning materials for children and teens.
According to Anatoliy, the overall needs of adults are still much greater, but the demand for children's literature and materials for young people is currently experiencing a very noticeable growth.
"Children and young people must remain a priority, because they will be the ones responsible for restoring and rebuilding Ukraine after the end of the war," Anatoliy said.
Your Support Brings Hope
Since the war, people from all over the world, have faithfully supported the ministry of the Ukrainian Bible Society and their team, with their love offerings channelled through the Bible Societies in their respective countries.
Over the past four years, such support has made it possible to provide:
- sustainable supply of Bibles,
- financial assistance,
- emergency response funding,
- advocacy at the national and international levels,
- as well as the unending support of prayers.
This global partnership has turned compassion into action, ensuring the Word of God remains accessible even in the midst of war. Anatoliy concludes his story with a hopeful testimony: "The name of Ukraine and the Ukrainian people continues to be lifted up day and night in the prayers of believers around the world. That prayer support never stops flowing." The support of partners, big and small, has allowed hope to remain and has been a light in the hearts of many of God's people in Ukraine. May the darkness end soon and the light of God come soon. May the war end soon and peace come to Ukraine.
Freely translated from: biblesociety.org.uk
