The following is an excerpt from a statement made recently by the United Methodist General Board of Global Ministries regarding the crisis in Ukraine:
“The General Board of Global Ministries of The United Methodist Church is deeply troubled by the conflict between Russia and Ukraine and the ominous implications it has for escalating tensions between Russia and Western nations. We join many Christian leaders and organizations worldwide in deploring the Russian invasion of Ukraine on February 24, and we ardently pray for a redirection of military action toward diplomatic measures to resolve grievances. United Methodists are people of peace.
The United Methodist Church has mission-founded congregations in both Ukraine and Russia, some from the pre-Soviet period and others dating from post-Soviet years. Both countries are geographically within the Eurasia Episcopal Area and relate to the United Methodist central conferences of Europe. Bishop Eduard Khegay, the resident episcopal leader in Eurasia, is based in Moscow.”
In this vein, we invite you to please read and learn from the following list of resources regarding the conflict and the UMC’s global response, as well as strongly encourage your prayers for and financial support to the people of Ukraine.
United Methodists and others wishing to provide humanitarian assistance to the Ukrainian people in the wake of the Russian invasion of their country may contribute to Advance #982450, UMCOR International Disaster Response and Recovery. This fund will provide direct assistance to those in Ukraine as well as assistance to Ukrainians fleeing to neighboring countries.
Gifts to support the people of Ukraine can be made in the following ways:
- Online at https://umcmission.org/advance-project/982450
- By toll free telephone: 888-252-6174
- By check with “Advance #982450-Ukraine” written on the memo line, either mailed and addressed to Global Ministries/UMCOR, GPO, P.O. Box 9068, New York, NY, 10087-9068 or given at or through any United Methodist church
One hundred percent of all Advance contributions go to the designated cause. (The independent charity watchdog, “Charity Watch,” gives UMCOR an “A+” ranking, and includes the UM organization on a highly selective list of charities it recommends when considering how to support the Ukrainian people. Read more)
The United Methodist community in Ukraine, though quite small, is actively engaged in assisting neighbors in need. Global Ministries is in touch with the church’s leadership as well as with church leaders in countries welcoming those who are fleeing from violence in Ukraine.
In addition, United Methodist Global Ministries’ Advance #14053A supports pastors in Ukraine and Moldova.
United Methodist Statements and Articles:
- Resource UMC – United Methodists Stand with Ukraine
- United Methodist General Board of Global Ministries – Support the Humanitarian Crisis in Ukraine
- United Methodist General Board of Church and Society – A Statement from General Secretary, Rev. Dr. Susan Henry-Crowe, “Cease the War, Wage Peace”
- United Methodist Council of Bishops – A Call for Peace
- Pastoral Letter in Light of the Tragic Events in Ukraine – From Bishop Alsted
- Discipleship Ministries – Prayers for Ukraine
- UMCOR – FAQ: The Crisis in Ukraine
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