In my report I would like to share with you the news of the latest developments in regards to Ukraine and the Bible Institute of Bear Valley. The New Year was not peaceful; the entire territory of Ukraine was pounded with missiles that were launched by the Russians. Because of the artillery shelling we experienced blackouts; no electricity, no heating, no gas, no running water. More than forty of the innocent civilians were killed in the recent attack. The enemy tries to destroy infrastructure (so far, $100 billion in infrastructure damage and counting). It’s very harmful especially now when we are having sub-zero temperatures outdoors. This is why we are very grateful for your aid and the donations that you contribute to congregations and to the entire Ukrainian nation.
The classes in the Bible Institute have started in the beginning of January. Currently, we have four students who are taking the classes. The current curriculum is the Book of Joshua, Judges, and Ruth. The instructor is Denis Sopelnik. Next, the students will be studying the 1st and 2nd Book of Kings which will be taught by Vladimir Paziy. One of our students (Victoria Radkevich) did finish her studies in December. She completed all the classes, and in May she will receive the Bachelor of Science in Biblical Studies degree.
Unfortunately, the military mobilization campaign in Ukraine is in the next phase, and many Ukrainian men are pressed into service. There have been cases when Ukrainian military recruiters used harsh tactics to fill ranks. The troops’ losses in Ukraine are huge and many men are trying to stay at home and not venture outdoors. This is why we are utilizing on-line studies.
At the moment, my family and I are living in Germany; we are helping the local church congregation in the city of Leipzig. We continue to conduct Bible classes for the Ukrainian children and their parents. Last Sunday I was preaching in English for the first time; I was mainly reading my sermon outline on a piece of paper. I hope that soon I will be able to say a few phrases in German, too.
I am very encouraged that our instructors and graduates are able to conduct worship services in Ukraine (in Bila Tserkva, Chernovtsy, Uzhhorod, Kiev, Skvira and other cities). In these cities the local Christians are distributing humanitarian aid, while sharing the gospel with the refugees.
We are very thankful to the American churches which are continuing to help Ukraine and the Bear Valley Bible Institute. We persevere in our efforts to prepare the future ministers, even in these difficult times.
Your brother, Dennis Sopelnik